Training Plan

10 Best Fitness Apps

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We all know how to download apps that connect us with people, allow us to share our photos and videos, even play games that waste our time but what about downloading an app that’s going to help you to achieve your fitness goals?

According to some recent research people who used mobile fitness apps were much more likely to be active than people who didn’t.  And they were more likely to have a lower body mass index! 

With so many apps on the market, which is the right one for you, and which is the one that’s going to keep you motivated?  Let’s look at our top 10 selection (in no particular order):

1.     Strava Running and Cycling GPS

If you like to run, ride or just adventure outside, you’ll love Strava.  Millions of runners, cyclists and active people use Strava to record their activities, compare performance over time.  Connect with their community and share photos, stories and highlights of your adventures with friends.

2.     Map My Run - GPS Running & Workout Tracker

This is a great app for people who are travelling and who are running in a new area.  MapMyRun gives you feedback and stats for every mile you go to help improve your performance. 

3.     Runkeeper

This is a classic app for everyone who wants to run.  This app really does get people out the door and help them stick with running forever.  Track your exercise, set goals, sweat and see your progress.  Over 50 million users worldwide.

4.     MySwimPro - Personal Swim Trainer

If you’re one of the lucky ones to have an Apple Watch Series 2 (the waterproof version), this is the swimming app for you.  You can select swimming workouts and track your biometrics. 

5.     5K Runner:  Couch to 5K Run Trainer

The OFFICIAL 5K Runner.  4.2 million people successfully did it.  Get in shape and lose weight in 8 weeks.  It’s been featured on CNN, Fox, USA, Today, Times and many more...and it’s free.

6.     Walking for Weight Loss

Walk off 3 times more fat with their training plan.  Now your walking will make you lose weight.  Reach top results in less time by combining walking and speed-up techniques.

7.     Calorie Counter & Diet Tracker by MyFitnessPal

Lose weight with MyFitnessPal, the fastest and easiest-to-use calorie counter for iOS.  This app has the largest food database with over 5,000,000 foods with amazingly fast and easy food and exercise entry to track your progress. 

8.     Runtastic Road Bike GPS Cycling & Ride Tracker

Join the millions of enthusiastic road bikers tracking their tours, races and leisure rides with the Runtastic Road Bike app.  Monitor training progress and compare personal performance and, if you’re really competitive, challenge your friends too!

9.     Sworkit - Workouts & Fitness Plans

Get started on a 6-week program to get “Leaner, Fitter, or Stronger.  There are plans for beginners, intermediate and advanced.  Get access to a huge database of body weight exercise.  That means you can do the workouts from anywhere. 

10.     PEAR - Personal Fitness Coach

“It’s among the best fitness apps you’ll find” - PC Magazine.  Finding great workouts from top coaches and getting fit has never been easier.

Snow Day Bike Trainer Workout

If you live in Canada and any of the northern US States then you are likely going to be stuck indoors over the next few days while Winter Storm Caly goes past!  To keep all you guys entertained, here is a great 60-75 min workout for you to do on the trainer which alternates between a little interval work and strength training.  

Before you start, please make sure your bike and trainer are secure and you have placed a mat or large towel on the floor next to the trainer.  You may also want to place an extra towel and water bottle on the floor next to your mat 'cause you are gonna SWEAT!

Warm-up:

10 min easy on the trainer, include 4 x 15 second spin ups at 100+ RPM

Main Set:

Repeat the following 3 times total (i.e. bike, core, bike, core, bike, core).  No rest in between.

Bike - do 10 minutes as:

  • 4 min spin at 90+ RPM gradually increasing resistance as you go
  • 1 min standing at 65+ RPM
  • 2 min easy spin 
  • 2 min hard effort
  • 1 min easy spin

Core/Leg Work - 100 reps* as:

  • 20 squats (this is going to burn!)
  • 20 lunges
  • 20 bicycle crunches
  • 20 leg lifts (10 each leg)
  • 10 pushups (modified or wall are OK!)
  • 10 crunches

*Focus on quality reps...don't just whiz through them.

Cool Down:  10-15 minutes of stretching

From Start to Finish ‹ Cayman Airways Skies

SwimStartTri

Great article and some tips from our coach here at Triformations if you are on the fence about training for your first triathlon!

Click here to read the full article.