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best workout apps under $157 for beginners (2025)

August 21, 2025 · 7 min read

title: "Best Workout Apps Under $157 for Beginners (2025)"
date: 2025-01-15
excerpt: "Discover the top workout apps for beginners in 2025 that are affordable and effective. This guide offers comprehensive insights to help you find the perfect fitness app under $157."
tags: ["fitness"]
image: ""

Best Workout Apps Under $157 for Beginners (2025)

Staying fit and healthy has never been more accessible, thanks to a plethora of workout apps available for smartphones and tablets. This buying guide focuses on the best workout apps under $157 for beginners in 2025, catering to various fitness levels and preferences. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle, or simply maintain a healthy lifestyle, the right app can make all the difference.

Overview

With millions of fitness apps on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose one that suits your needs as a beginner. This guide aims to simplify the selection process by highlighting the best workout apps that are budget-friendly and packed with valuable features. We’ll delve into their key features, pricing, and what makes them stand out in the crowded fitness app landscape.

Top Picks

Name Best For Key Features Price (USD)
MyFitnessPal Tracking Nutrition & Fitness Calorie tracking, macro goals, community support $0
Fitbod Strength Training Personalized workouts, adaptive training, progress tracking $12.99/month
Nike Training Club Variety of Workouts Equipment options, professional trainers, free workouts $0
JEFIT Bodybuilding Exercise library, workout planner, community features $6.99/month
7 Minute Workout Quick Workouts High-intensity workouts, timer, audio cues $9.99/year
Sworkit Custom Workouts Customizable workouts, various fitness levels $9.99/month
Yoga for Beginners Yoga & Flexibility Guided sessions, beginner-friendly poses $4.99/month

In-Depth Reviews

1. MyFitnessPal

Price: Free
Best For: Tracking Nutrition & Fitness
Key Features:

  • Extensive food database for calorie counting.
  • Macro tracking to help beginners understand nutrition.
  • Community support for motivation and advice.

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface.
  • Customizable goals based on diet and fitness targets.
  • Supports integrations with other fitness apps and devices.

Cons:

  • Some advanced features require a premium subscription.
  • May feel overwhelming due to the extensive database.

MyFitnessPal stands out as an all-in-one nutrition and fitness tracker, ideal for beginners wanting to monitor their food intake and workouts.

2. Fitbod

Price: $12.99/month
Best For: Strength Training
Key Features:

  • Personalized workout plans based on available equipment.
  • Adaptive training that adjusts based on your performance.
  • Progress tracking to monitor improvements.

Pros:

  • Tailored workouts that evolve as you progress.
  • Easy to use with a clean interface.
  • Extensive exercise library.

Cons:

  • Monthly subscription may be a drawback for some users.
  • Limited focus on cardio workouts.

Fitbod is perfect for those who want to build strength efficiently, offering personalized workouts that cater to a beginner’s needs.

3. Nike Training Club

Price: Free
Best For: Variety of Workouts
Key Features:

  • A library of workouts ranging from strength to yoga.
  • Professional trainers leading sessions.
  • Equipment options for home or gym workouts.

Pros:

  • High-quality video demonstrations.
  • Variety of workout lengths and intensities.
  • No subscription fees for core content.

Cons:

  • Some advanced workouts require a subscription.
  • Limited tracking features compared to specialized apps.

Nike Training Club provides a diverse range of workouts suitable for beginners, making it easy to find something that fits your routine.

4. JEFIT

Price: $6.99/month
Best For: Bodybuilding
Key Features:

  • Comprehensive exercise library with instructional videos.
  • Workout planner for structured training sessions.
  • Community features for sharing progress.

Pros:

  • Great for those focused on bodybuilding and strength.
  • Offers a free version with essential features.
  • In-depth progress tracking.

Cons:

  • Some users may find the interface cluttered.
  • Requires a subscription for full access.

JEFIT is an excellent choice for beginners interested in bodybuilding, offering detailed workout plans and community support.

5. 7 Minute Workout

Price: $9.99/year
Best For: Quick Workouts
Key Features:

  • High-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts.
  • Timer and audio cues for guidance.
  • Simple, no-equipment workouts.

Pros:

  • Ideal for those with busy schedules.
  • Easy to follow with minimal equipment.
  • Affordable yearly subscription.

Cons:

  • Limited variety in workout types.
  • May not be challenging enough for advanced users.

The 7 Minute Workout app is perfect for beginners looking to fit quick workouts into their schedules without sacrificing effectiveness.

6. Sworkit

Price: $9.99/month
Best For: Custom Workouts
Key Features:

  • Customizable workout plans tailored to individual needs.
  • Options for strength, cardio, yoga, and stretching.
  • User-friendly interface.

Pros:

  • Flexible workouts that adapt to your fitness level.
  • Good variety of exercises.
  • Clear video demonstrations.

Cons:

  • Monthly fee may not appeal to all users.
  • Some workouts may require equipment.

Sworkit is a versatile app that allows beginners to create their own workout plans, making it ideal for those who prefer a personalized approach.

7. Yoga for Beginners

Price: $4.99/month
Best For: Yoga & Flexibility
Key Features:

  • Guided yoga sessions specifically for beginners.
  • Focus on fundamental poses and techniques.
  • Adjustable difficulty levels.

Pros:

  • Great for improving flexibility and relaxation.
  • Easy-to-follow instructions.
  • Affordable subscription.

Cons:

  • Limited advanced routines.
  • May require additional props for certain poses.

Yoga for Beginners is a fantastic app for those looking to ease into yoga practice with guidance tailored to novices.

How We Picked

The selection process for the best workout apps involved looking at several critical factors:

  • User Reviews: We analyzed user ratings and feedback to gauge overall satisfaction.
  • Feature Set: We focused on apps that offer a variety of features suitable for beginners, including customization and guidance.
  • Pricing: All apps listed are under $157, ensuring affordability without compromising quality.
  • Usability: Ease of use is crucial for beginners, so we prioritized apps with intuitive interfaces.
  • Expert Recommendations: We consulted fitness professionals to identify apps that deliver effective workouts for beginners.

Alternatives

If the top picks don’t meet your needs, consider these additional options:

  • Daily Burn: Offers a vast library of workouts with a focus on community support. Price: $14.95/month.
  • Aaptiv: Audio-based workouts led by personal trainers for various fitness levels. Price: $14.99/month.
  • Zombies, Run!: An immersive running game that combines storytelling with physical activity. Price: $35.99/year.

FAQs

1. Are workout apps effective for beginners?
Yes, workout apps can provide structure, guidance, and motivation, making them effective tools for beginners.

2. Do I need any special equipment to use these apps?
Many of the apps listed offer workouts that require little to no equipment, making them accessible for beginners.

3. Can I use these apps for weight loss?
Absolutely! Many apps include features for tracking calories and workouts that can help with weight loss goals.

4. How much should I expect to spend on workout apps?
Most of the recommended apps are either free or affordable, typically ranging from $0 to $12.99/month.

5. What should I look for in a workout app?
Look for an app that offers beginner-friendly workouts, tracks your progress, and has a user-friendly interface.

6. Can I cancel my subscription at any time?
Most subscription-based apps allow you to cancel at any time, but it’s best to check the specific terms and conditions of each app.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right workout app can significantly impact your fitness journey, especially as a beginner. In 2025, there are numerous affordable options under $157 that provide quality workouts, nutrition tracking, and community support. Whether you prefer strength training, yoga, or high-intensity workouts, there’s an app suited to your needs.

Investing in a workout app is a step towards a healthier lifestyle, and with the right tools, you can achieve your fitness goals effectively and enjoyably. Explore the options listed in this guide, read user reviews, and find the app that resonates with you to kick-start your fitness journey today.

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