5 Apps for Fitness
With warm summer weather creeping onto the scene, it only seems natural to spend more time moving your body outdoors. Walking with friends, playing at the park with your kiddos and even going for a pool swim are all easily available options as the temperatures increase. But in spite of the extra sunshine, what can you do if you’re still struggling with motivation or find yourself bored and in search of creative workout ideas?
When it comes to fitness planning, technology definitely has the upper hand. With online programs, videos and even coaching available it’s simple to find something that might interest you, but generally it comes with a price tag. Let’s take a brief look into five phone apps that are great for increasing motivation, providing information and efficiently tracking your movement.
1. Fit Bit Coach
At-home workouts come with a certain level of accountability and self-motivation and if you’re just starting your fitness journey (for the season or the first time) it can seem much more motivating to have someone lead you in the right direction until you find yourself confident to take on more. Apart from a personal trainer, Fit Bit Coach is the next best thing! It removes the stress of planning a workout and uses your body’s information to plan an individualized workout to fit your needs. This app has the capability to provide a challenge that increases your stamina and strength while keeping the user within reasonable boundaries in order to minimize injuries. With this app at your fingertips you’ll be feeling stronger and motivated to maintain a life of wellness.
2. Sworkit
Sworkit uses individual health data to create specific workouts for the user. One of the best uses of this specific application is for interval training. Interval training gives you the most bang for your buck and research shows that interval training increases fitness levels and causes a body to burn more calories over a short period of time than steady-state cardio. It provides just the right foundation for training as it gives suggested interval periods and movement suggestions but allows for customization as well. Users can target specific muscle groups or follow a pre-programmed workout. With built in reminders and opportunities for motivation, by earning mPoints for completing workouts Sworkit has just what you need to get moving.
3. Map My Ride
Make a plan to get your bike out of the garage, tune it up and start logging those miles! Cycling is a great cardio workout and has the added benefit of working lower body muscles that aren’t used on a normal basis. It is a low impact activity that takes strain off your joints while still giving a great workout. Whether you fancy hardcore trail riding or a bike lane on the road, gliding along on your bicycle with the breeze blowing through your hair brings a sense of freedom and fulfillment like no other. Map My Ride has the full capabilities to track your mileage, speed, and calories burned.
4. Runkeeper
While there are a lot of apps out there for the avid runner, Runkeeper is quite versatile for runners of every level. Whether you are just beginning in your journey or make a point to run on a daily basis, this app will meet your every need. A few stand out features of this application are its connectivity to other devices such as the Apple watch, wireless headphones and heart rate monitors. It also offers the option to participate in running groups, fitness plans and challenges. With Runkeeper you’re able to track via GPS, set goals, follow a structured plan, share achievements and track your progress. If you don’t naturally enjoy running, give this app a chance and see if it can get you better acquainted with the sport.
5. All Trails
If you’re feeling the itch to get out and explore nature this summer, plan to check out nearby hiking trails. Hiking provides the added bonuses of fresh air and scenery to your everyday fitness routine. But, because hiking can tend to be a bit more strenuous than other forms of movement, it’s generally best to do some research before heading out. All Trails provides much information to potential hikers and is definitely one to check out prior to hitting the road. Apart from being a comprehensive website there is also a phone app that provides user feedback, trail details, and even trail maps. Explore the app and explore nature this summer. But always remember to pack for the elements: sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, bug repellent, snacks and water.
So whether you are planning an individual run or a group hiking excursion be sure to download the free versions of these apps and start getting yourself motivated to move healthier this summer season!
What’s next?
For more movement ideas head to our Aspen Wellness Resources or to view a few suggested phone apps visit our Aspen Wellness Recommendations.