Getting fit can be a daunting experience, especially if you haven’t tried for a while. So here are five apps that will help you get back into great shape in no time.
iMuscle
The iMuscle app has over 450 hi-quality animated stretches and exercises for you to watch, so you actually get to see what muscles you’re working on.
Users can use the iMuscle app to aid in their workout routine or if they’re rehabilitating an injured muscle. It’s great because you can identify a particular body part or a particular muscle and see what exercises will improve that area.
The Muscle Man is a bit creepy but at least it’s not a boring stick figure
The app currently costs €1.59 on the app store, but if you’re looking to improve on a certain part of your body then the iMuscle app is definitely worth it.
Sleep Cycle alarm clock
Sometimes the best way to make sure you’re fighting fit is to get a good night’s sleep. However, did you know that your alarm clock might be waking you up at the wrong time? This might explain why you still feel tired even after several hours of sleep. If that’s the case with you then check out the Sleep Cycle alarm clock app.
The Sleep Cycle alarm clock app monitors your movement during your sleep using the accelerometer in your phone. The app is able to sense when the best time for you to wake up is, so you’ll feel better rested. The app is only €0.79 and it has four and a half stars out of 182 reviews in the App Store, which is practically unheard of, so you know it’s going to be money well spent.
5K Runner: Couch to 5K
Want to get off the couch and lose the beer belly? Why not start off with the 5K Runner app that will take beginners from the couch to a 5K (that’s 3.1 miles in old money) in only eight weeks.
All you have to do is work out for 35 minutes, three times a week, over a period of eight weeks… easy. The app works by setting out fairly easy goals such as making you walk for the majority of your first trip and gradually increasing the amount of running as the weeks progress.
The end goal of the app is to help you run a 5K in one single run – no stopping.
The app is currently €1.59 on the app store but with all the media attention and good reviews that it’s received, the €1.59 is well worth it.
Run Keeper
While the 5K Runner app will get you off your ass, the Run Keeper app will make sure you stick to your running routine. Run Keeper does what it says on the tin by keeping track of your run in pretty much every aspect you would want from a running app.
Your current pace, total distance, estimated calories burned and time running are all featured on the home screen in an easy to read (while running) manner. You can even see where you slowed down during your run thanks to a handy bar graph.
We wonder if they intentionally used bar graphs instead of pie charts
The app also uses your iPhone’s GPS and it can track your run on Google Maps so you can see where exactly you ran. It’s currently free on the app store, so there’s no reason not to download it.
Strava Cycling
The Strava Cycling app does pretty much everything the Run Keeper does… except it’s for cyclists. You can keep track of your speed and progress while also checking out your route via Google Maps.
The app is great for both road and mountain cycling and it adds an element of competition to your workout. The app lets you connect with your fellow cycling friends where you can set times on particular pieces of road or trail and try to beat each others personal bests.
There’s loads of customisation with the workouts in this app and it’s a must have for any wannabe-Lance Armstrong out there.
Oh, and it’s free.
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