title: "Best Workout Apps Under $120 for Beginners (2025)"
date: 2025-01-15
excerpt: "Discover the top workout apps for beginners in 2025, all under $120. This comprehensive guide includes expert insights, detailed reviews, and essential features to help you choose the right app for your fitness journey."
tags: [fitness]
image: ""
Best Workout Apps Under $120 for Beginners (2025)
In the evolving landscape of fitness technology, workout apps have become vital tools for beginners aiming to embark on their fitness journey. This guide seeks to identify the best workout apps under $120 for 2025, ensuring you have access to the right tools to kickstart your healthy lifestyle. With a variety of features and benefits tailored for novice users, these apps empower individuals to achieve their fitness goals efficiently and effectively.
Overview
As the fitness industry continues to grow, the demand for accessible and affordable workout solutions has soared. Beginners often face challenges such as lack of knowledge, motivation, and the high cost of personal trainers. Workout apps have emerged as a practical solution, providing guided workouts, nutrition tracking, and community support—all from the convenience of a smartphone.
In 2025, the best workout apps for beginners focus on user-friendly interfaces, personalized workout plans, and diverse training options. This guide highlights the top choices available for under $120, enabling you to make an informed decision based on your preferences and fitness aspirations.
Top Picks
Name | Best For | Key Features | Price (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
Fitbod | Strength Training | AI-generated workouts, progress tracking | $12.99/mo |
MyFitnessPal | Nutrition Tracking | Food diary, exercise logging, community support | $9.99/mo |
Nike Training Club | Variety of Workouts | Free workouts, expert trainers, customizable plans | Free/$14.99 |
JEFIT | Bodybuilding | Extensive exercise library, workout planner | $12.99/mo |
Peloton | Cycling and More | Live classes, community features, diverse workouts | $12.99/mo |
Aaptiv | Audio Workouts | Guided audio workouts, various fitness genres | $14.99/mo |
Sworkit | Flexibility & Core | Custom workout plans, no equipment needed | $9.99/mo |
FitOn | Free Workouts | Live classes, community engagement, diverse formats | Free |
In-Depth Reviews
1. Fitbod
Price: $12.99/month
Best For: Strength Training
Key Features:
- AI-generated workout plans tailored to individual progress.
- Comprehensive tracking of workouts and muscle recovery.
- Extensive exercise library with instructional videos.
Pros:
- Personalized workout plans adapt to your fitness levels.
- Great for building strength progressively.
Cons:
- Requires a subscription for full features.
Expert Insight: Fitbod's AI technology sets it apart, making it one of the best choices for beginners who want to focus on strength training without the need for a personal trainer.
2. MyFitnessPal
Price: $9.99/month
Best For: Nutrition Tracking
Key Features:
- Extensive food database for tracking meals.
- Integration with various fitness devices.
- Community support and challenges.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface.
- Extensive community support for motivation.
Cons:
- Premium features require a subscription.
Expert Insight: MyFitnessPal is ideal for beginners looking to balance their diet with their fitness goals. Its database and community features provide the necessary support for healthy eating.
3. Nike Training Club
Price: Free / $14.99/month for premium features
Best For: Variety of Workouts
Key Features:
- Access to a wide range of workouts focused on strength, endurance, and mobility.
- Expert trainers guide you through each session.
- Customizable workout plans based on your fitness level.
Pros:
- Free tier offers substantial content.
- High-quality production and instruction.
Cons:
- Premium content locked behind a paywall.
Expert Insight: Nike Training Club is an excellent choice for beginners who appreciate variety and high-quality workouts. The free version is robust enough for most users.
4. JEFIT
Price: $12.99/month
Best For: Bodybuilding
Key Features:
- Workout routines specifically designed for bodybuilding.
- Progress tracking over time with detailed analytics.
- Exercise library with instructional videos.
Pros:
- Strong focus on bodybuilding techniques.
- Great for tracking progress and gains.
Cons:
- Less variety in workout styles compared to other apps.
Expert Insight: JEFIT is perfect for beginners who are specifically interested in bodybuilding and strength training, providing solid resources to guide them through their fitness journey.
5. Peloton
Price: $12.99/month
Best For: Cycling and More
Key Features:
- Live and on-demand classes in cycling, running, strength, and yoga.
- Interactive community features to keep you motivated.
- Access to world-class trainers.
Pros:
- Diverse workout options beyond just cycling.
- Engaging community for motivation.
Cons:
- Requires a bike or equipment for some workouts.
Expert Insight: Peloton offers a unique blend of cycling and other workouts, making it suitable for beginners who want variety and community engagement in their fitness routine.
6. Aaptiv
Price: $14.99/month
Best For: Audio Workouts
Key Features:
- Guided audio workouts across various fitness genres.
- New classes added weekly.
- Customizable workout plans.
Pros:
- Excellent for those who prefer audio instruction.
- Diverse workout options.
Cons:
- No visual demonstrations for exercises.
Expert Insight: Aaptiv stands out for beginners who enjoy audio-guided workouts, allowing them to engage in fitness without being tied to a screen.
7. Sworkit
Price: $9.99/month
Best For: Flexibility & Core
Key Features:
- Customizable workout plans based on your goals.
- Focus on flexibility, strength, cardio, and core training.
- No equipment needed for most workouts.
Pros:
- Suitable for all fitness levels.
- Flexible workout durations.
Cons:
- Limited advanced training options.
Expert Insight: Sworkit is excellent for beginners focusing on flexibility and core strength, with the added benefit of being equipment-free.
8. FitOn
Price: Free
Best For: Free Workouts
Key Features:
- Access to live and on-demand classes across various fitness styles.
- Community engagement through challenges and support.
- No subscription fees required.
Pros:
- Completely free access to high-quality workouts.
- Large variety of instructors and styles.
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to paid apps.
Expert Insight: FitOn’s free model is perfect for beginners who want to explore fitness without financial commitment while still enjoying quality content.
How We Picked
Choosing the best workout apps for beginners involves a comprehensive evaluation of several factors, including:
- User Experience: We prioritized apps with user-friendly interfaces that are easy for beginners to navigate.
- Variety of Workouts: The best apps offer a wide range of workout styles and formats to cater to different preferences and fitness goals.
- Affordability: All selected apps are priced under $120 per year, making them accessible for beginners.
- Expert Reviews: We considered expert opinions and user reviews to gauge the effectiveness and popularity of each app.
- Features: Key features such as progress tracking, nutrition guidance, and community support were crucial in our selection process.
Alternatives
While the apps listed above are among the best, there are several alternatives worth considering:
- Zombies, Run!: An interactive app that combines running and storytelling for a unique experience.
- StrongLifts 5x5: A simple and effective strength training app focusing on compound movements.
- Daily Burn: Offers a wide range of workouts with a focus on video instruction.
FAQs
1. Are workout apps effective for beginners?
Yes, workout apps provide structured guidance and motivation, which can significantly help beginners in establishing a fitness routine.
2. Can I access these apps without a subscription?
Most apps offer free versions with limited features, while premium subscriptions unlock additional content and features.
3. How do I choose the right workout app for me?
Consider your fitness goals, preferred workout styles, and whether you want guidance for nutrition or community support when selecting an app.
4. Are there any free workout apps worth trying?
Yes, apps like FitOn and Nike Training Club offer substantial free content, making them excellent choices for beginners.
5. What if I am not tech-savvy?
Many workout apps are designed with beginners in mind, featuring intuitive interfaces and easy navigation to accommodate users of all skill levels.
6. Is it necessary to have equipment for these workout apps?
While some apps offer workouts that require equipment, many also provide bodyweight exercises that can be performed anywhere, making them suitable for beginners without access to a gym.
Final Verdict
Embarking on a fitness journey can be daunting, but with the right tools, it can also be incredibly rewarding. The best workout apps under $120 for beginners in 2025 offer a variety of features to cater to different fitness goals and preferences. From strength training with Fitbod to nutrition tracking with MyFitnessPal, each app has its unique strengths that can help you achieve your fitness aspirations.
Evaluate your needs, explore the options, and choose an app that aligns with your goals. With commitment and the right support, your fitness journey can start today!