Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Apple Fitness+

$9.99/month

Apple Fitness+ integrates with the Apple Watch to deliver personalized fitness experiences. It offers a variety of workouts led by expert trainers, with new sessions added weekly, making it easy to stay motivated.

Our take

Great for Apple users wanting an integrated fitness experience.

Apple Fitness+ is like having a gym in your pocket, which is pretty cool if you ask me. You get access to a bunch of workout videos that range from yoga to HIIT, and they're all led by enthusiastic trainers who actually make you want to move. The standout feature is how it integrates with the Apple Watch. Seeing your heart rate and calories burned right there on the screen while you're sweating it out is pretty motivating. But, if you're someone who doesn’t own an Apple Watch, you might feel a bit left out because that connection is a big part of the experience.

One thing that kind of bugs me is the need for an Apple device to use it. You need at least an iPhone, which feels a bit restrictive if you're not already in the Apple ecosystem. It's like Apple is saying, "Join the club or you're out," which can be a deal-breaker for folks who aren't already on team Apple. But, if you're already rocking an iPhone or an Apple Watch, then it's a no-brainer to give it a try.

The variety of workouts is impressive. You can choose from strength training, dance, core, and even meditation. It’s like a buffet for your fitness needs, which is great because you’re less likely to get bored. The trainers are diverse and aim to be inclusive, which is refreshing. They’re also pretty upbeat, which might be a bit much if you’re more of a “let me work out in peace” kind of person. But hey, they’re doing their best to keep you engaged.

Now, let's talk about the production value, which is top-notch. The videos are crisp, and the sound quality is great. It feels like you're getting a premium experience, which you'd kind of expect given the price point. On the flip side, if you’re someone who enjoys the gym for its social aspect, working out alone with your device might feel a bit isolating. But, for those who love the convenience of working out at home, it’s a winner.

So, is Apple Fitness+ worth it? If you’re already in the Apple world and looking for a convenient way to keep fit, then yes, it’s a solid choice. The integration with Apple Watch and the variety of workouts make it a strong contender. However, if you’re not already using Apple products, the barrier to entry is high, and that could be a deal-breaker. Overall, it’s good for what it is, but it definitely caters to folks who are already Apple fans.

Free and Premium options

Free with paid plans

$10.99/month