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FitStar Personal Trainer

Nothing can beat the individual attention and bespoke service of a human personal trainer, but the Fitstar Personal Trainer makes a more than adequate (and completely free) virtual equivalent. It works by asking you a simple set of questions at the end of each exercise program to gauge your requirements and fitness level. It then uses this information to pair you with workouts that challenge you without defeating you. The range of workouts available are ideal for both beginners and experts. (It was designed by former NFL star Tony Gonzalez, after all).

(Free; iOS)

Fitnet

Make your smartphone camera do something useful for a change: With the Fitnet app, you can use it to help you achieve your fitness aims. Ever follow a fitness DVD and wish you had someone to tell you where you were going wrong? That’s where Fitnet comes in. You follow workout videos from personal trainers, and the Fitnet app uses your camera to see how well you are keeping up. It will tell you whether you fell out of step or stopped at a pivotal point, with feedback delivered in real time, so that you can constantly work on your performance.

(Free; iOS andAndroid)

Sworkit

Sworkit is ideal if you have a tight schedule and no access to a gym. It uses your body weight to deliver high-intensity workouts that can be anything from five minutes to an hour in duration. You have a choice of cardio, strength training, yoga or stretching exercises, and there is a wide range of workouts. You can even create your own versions. The exercises are very easy to follow and are accompanied by excellent videos and a clock that counts down the number of repetitions remaining.

(Free; iOS and Android)

Johnson & Johnson Official 7 Minute Workout App

Johnson & Johnson is not just about baby shampoo: The company is generating some very positive reviews for its Official 7 Minute Workout App too. As the name suggests, this app brings you through the original 7-minute workout, but it also offers a “Smart Workout” personal trainer based on your personal fitness and health levels, and a “Workout Library” with 16 more advanced routines that vary according to length and intensity. Short videos accompany the workouts, and you can devise your own custom workout routines too. You also have the option to begin with a warm-up set of basic exercises to loosen the muscles. You don’t need any equipment—apart from a chair, a wall, and some floor space. To make it even easier to use, the app uses audio cues to tell you the exercise name and prompt you to begin and end movements.

(Free; Android and iOS)

Strava Running & Cycling

Serious runners and cyclists know all about Strava Running & Cycling’s capabilities as a mileage tracker, but it also includes some clever features to add a touch of competition and motivation to the general run-tracking package. Not only does the app record your speed, distance, time, and route, but it also encourages you to get as competitive as you like, with leader boards, achievements and challenges. Strava supports a number of running trackers, as well as Android Wear and Apple Watch. If you want to upgrade from the free subscription, you get filtered leader boards, goal creation, and more detailed analytics.

(Free; Android, iOS)

Can you recommend any fitness apps? We’d love to hear from you. Remember, you should always consult a doctor before embarking on a new fitness regime, particularly if you have any health issues. You can find, review, and book a doctor with Comiere’s convenient state-of-the-art service.