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best workout apps under $53 for beginners (2025)

August 21, 2025 · 8 min read

title: "Best Workout Apps Under $53 for Beginners (2025)"
date: 2025-01-15
excerpt: "Discover the top workout apps for beginners in 2025 that are both effective and budget-friendly. This guide covers essential features, pros, cons, and expert insights to help you choose the best fitness app for your needs."
tags: [fitness]
image: ""

Best Workout Apps Under $53 for Beginners (2025)

Finding the right workout app can be overwhelming, especially for beginners looking to kick-start their fitness journey. With numerous options available, it’s essential to choose a platform that provides the right mix of guidance, motivation, and features. This comprehensive guide presents the best workout apps under $53 for beginners in 2025, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your fitness needs without breaking the bank.

Overview

Workout apps have transformed how we approach fitness, offering flexibility and accessibility for users. For beginners, selecting an app that caters to their unique requirements is crucial. The right app can offer tailored workout plans, instructional videos, progress tracking, and community support, making the transition into a fitness routine much smoother.

In this guide, we will explore the top workout apps under $53 that are ideal for beginners, including their features, pricing, and additional insights. Whether you're looking to start a new workout regimen, lose weight, or simply maintain a healthy lifestyle, this guide has you covered.

Top Picks

Name Best For Key Features Price (USD)
MyFitnessPal Nutrition tracking and workouts Food diary, community support, personalized goals $19.99/year
FitOn Free workouts Live classes, personalized fitness plans, nutrition guidance Free
Nike Training Club Strength and flexibility workouts Wide variety of workouts, expert trainers, no subscription fee Free
7 Minute Workout Quick workouts High-intensity interval training, easy-to-follow routines $8.99
Aaptiv Audio-based workouts Guided audio workouts, diverse fitness programs, community $14.99/month
Sworkit Customizable workouts Custom workout plans, video demonstrations, progress tracking $29.99/year
Fitbod Strength training Personalized weightlifting plans, gym-based focus $9.99/month
Peloton Cycling and running Live and on-demand classes, extensive library $12.99/month

In-Depth Reviews

MyFitnessPal

Best For: Nutrition tracking and workouts

MyFitnessPal is widely recognized for its robust food tracking capabilities, making it an excellent choice for beginners who want to monitor their dietary intake alongside their workouts. The app offers a vast database of foods, allowing users to log meals efficiently and track their calorie intake.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive food database
  • Community support for motivation
  • Personal goals and fitness plans

Pros:

  • Easy to use interface
  • Integration with various fitness devices
  • Free version available

Cons:

  • Premium features require a paid subscription
  • Some users find the database overwhelming

Current Price: $19.99/year
Check it out here.


FitOn

Best For: Free workouts

FitOn is a standout choice for beginners looking for a no-cost solution. It offers a variety of workout classes led by top trainers across multiple fitness disciplines, including yoga, HIIT, and strength training.

Key Features:

  • Live and on-demand classes
  • Personalized fitness plans
  • Nutrition guidance

Pros:

  • Completely free
  • Social features for connecting with friends
  • High-quality video production

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features compared to premium apps
  • Requires internet access for streaming

Current Price: Free
Check it out here.


Nike Training Club

Best For: Strength and flexibility workouts

Nike Training Club provides a comprehensive library of workouts designed for all fitness levels. Beginners will appreciate the clear instructions and demonstrations, making it easy to follow along.

Key Features:

  • Wide variety of workouts
  • Expert trainers
  • No subscription fee for basic content

Pros:

  • High-quality instructional videos
  • Excellent for strength training and flexibility
  • Regularly updated workout options

Cons:

  • Some advanced features require a premium subscription
  • Limited outdoor workout options

Current Price: Free
Check it out here.


7 Minute Workout

Best For: Quick workouts

As the name suggests, 7 Minute Workout focuses on high-intensity interval training (HIIT) that can be completed in just seven minutes. This app is ideal for beginners who want to fit a quick workout into their busy schedules.

Key Features:

  • Short, effective workouts
  • Video demonstrations for each exercise
  • Easy to follow routines

Pros:

  • Quick sessions for time-strapped individuals
  • No equipment needed
  • Great for beginners

Cons:

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

Current Price: $8.99
Check it out here.


Aaptiv

Best For: Audio-based workouts

Aaptiv is an audio-based fitness app that offers a wide range of guided workouts across different categories, including running, strength training, and yoga. This is perfect for beginners who may feel intimidated by video workouts.

Key Features:

  • Guided audio workouts
  • Diverse fitness programs
  • Community support

Pros:

  • Engaging audio instructions
  • New workouts added regularly
  • Access to various fitness styles

Cons:

  • Requires a subscription for full access
  • Limited video content

Current Price: $14.99/month
Check it out here.


Sworkit

Best For: Customizable workouts

Sworkit allows users to create their workouts based on personal preferences and available time. The app offers video demonstrations for each exercise, making it beginner-friendly.

Key Features:

  • Custom workout plans
  • Video demonstrations
  • Progress tracking

Pros:

  • Highly customizable
  • User-friendly interface
  • Suitable for all fitness levels

Cons:

  • Annual subscription required for full access
  • Limited workout variety without a premium account

Current Price: $29.99/year
Check it out here.


Fitbod

Best For: Strength training

Fitbod is tailored for those looking to focus on strength training. It uses machine learning to create personalized weightlifting plans based on your previous workouts and available equipment.

Key Features:

  • Personalized weightlifting plans
  • Gym-based focus
  • Progress tracking

Pros:

  • Tailored to individual fitness levels
  • Great for beginners and intermediate lifters
  • User-friendly interface

Cons:

  • Requires gym access for best results
  • Monthly subscription can add up

Current Price: $9.99/month
Check it out here.


Peloton

Best For: Cycling and running

Peloton is known for its high-energy cycling workouts, but it has expanded to include running and strength training. The app offers both live and on-demand classes suitable for beginners.

Key Features:

  • Extensive library of classes
  • Live streaming options
  • Access to a community of users

Pros:

  • High-quality production value
  • Motivating instructors
  • Variety of workout styles

Cons:

  • Requires a subscription for full access
  • Some workouts may require specific equipment

Current Price: $12.99/month
Check it out here.

How We Picked

To identify the best workout apps for beginners under $53, we considered several criteria:

  1. User-Friendly Interface: Apps should be easy to navigate and suitable for those new to fitness.
  2. Variety of Workouts: The availability of diverse workout types and styles should cater to beginners with different interests.
  3. Cost-Effectiveness: We focused on apps that provided value for money, ensuring that users can access quality features without exceeding the budget.
  4. Community and Support: Apps that offer community features or support systems to motivate users were prioritized.
  5. Expert Reviews and User Feedback: We analyzed user reviews and expert opinions to gauge the effectiveness and reliability of each app.

Alternatives

While the apps listed above are excellent choices, several other options may also suit your needs:

  • JEFIT: A workout tracker with a strong community aspect and a focus on strength training.
  • Zombies, Run!: A unique app that gamifies running, making it engaging for beginners.
  • Yoga Studio: Ideal for those focusing on flexibility and mindfulness through yoga practices.

FAQs

1. What should I look for in a workout app for beginners?

Look for user-friendly interfaces, a variety of workout options, clear instructions, and features that allow you to track your progress and set personal goals.

2. Are these workout apps suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, the apps listed in this guide cater primarily to beginners while offering adjustments or intermediate options for those who may advance in their fitness journey.

3. Can I use these apps without a gym membership?

Many of the apps mentioned offer workouts that can be done at home or outdoors, making them suitable for users without gym access.

4. Do I need to pay for premium features in these apps?

Some apps offer free versions with limited features, while others may require a subscription for full access. Review each app's pricing structure to decide what's best for you.

5. How do I stay motivated while using a workout app?

Utilize community features, set achievable goals, and track your progress to stay engaged. Consider pairing with friends or family members for added motivation.

6. Can I combine different workout apps?

Absolutely! Many users find success by combining various apps to incorporate different workout styles and keep their routines fresh and engaging.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best workout app under $53 for beginners in 2025 depends on individual preferences and fitness goals. Each app listed in this guide has its unique strengths, catering to various aspects of fitness, from nutrition tracking to high-intensity workouts.

Whether you opt for the comprehensive tracking of MyFitnessPal or the quick sessions offered by 7 Minute Workout, the right app can help you embark on a sustainable fitness journey. Start exploring these options today, and find the perfect match for your needs!

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