Originally by Katie Cowen on January 11, 2019
Mobile Fitness Apps – SWEAT, Sworkt, Nike + Training Club, Freeletics, Fiit
Mobile fitness apps have been taking over the training and fitness industry. These apps are available to download from virtually anywhere immediately giving an individualized program to follow for the experienced or non-experienced gym-goer for personal and/or professional use. Most of these 21stcentury nutrition and fitness apps have a sense of community with a multitude of users from all walks of life, as well as an option for a personal coach to help you reach your active and nutrition goals. This sense of community, some would say, is a movement that many women and men are becoming a part of creating this new age wave of fitness frenzy. Health and fitness apps such as SWEAT, Sworkit, Nike + Training Club, Freeletics and Fiit are just a few apps that offer programs to develop and expand ones fitness and nutrition goals. According to Netimperative (2017), health and fitness app usage grew at an exponential rate of 330% in 3 years. It continues to grow year over year, however the market is showing signs of slowing down. These apps are mainly downloaded by users who are looking to lose weight or find new workout and exercise programs. Take a look at this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOG4kiQTXUofor the top 5 fitness apps out right now.
Resources:
Netimperative. (2017). Accessed by: http://www.netimperative.com/2017/09/health-fitness-app-usage-grew-330-just-3-years/
I love how technology is used more and more to deal with health issues. This app is yet another good example how technology can promote good health habits and motivate people to exercise. Previously technology was mainly used to search for information, advice or tips about medical conditions. Nowadays it has a more active role and is employed to help people reach their health goals.
I think this trend is empowering. A common theme in this course, but the knowledge available through this type of app gives people of nearly any budget (ok you need a device) to access great workout tips, nutrition goals, and for those who just don’t feel like gyms are worth the high cost! So many workouts can be done outside for free! Of course, there is potential to be given unsafe exercises since these are not personalized or supervised, but I think overall there is a net benefit here. Also, those who feel self-conscious or simply don’t want to workout around others have a good option to follow programs and set goals vs others and “compete” virtually.