Apps for Staying Fit at Home

There are many ways that working from home is better than working an office job.  But while you may have more flexibility in your scheduling and the option to work while in your pajamas, there are still some of the same problems that you encounter with your usual 9-5.  Chief among them?  Moving enough throughout the day.

However, while working from home may mean many hours at a desk, you are freer to get in little workouts throughout the day.  Yoga at the office?  A bit weird.  Yoga in your living room?  No problem!

Of course, just having the freedom to get up and get active isn't enough; you also need a program to follow and ways to keep yourself on track.  To help, check out my choices for apps for staying fit at home.  

MyFitnessPal

My Fitness Pal isn't an exercise app itself, but it does help you track your exercise and your calories, as well as your water intake.  The app will give you daily reminders to log each of your meals, ensuring that you stay on top of things.  Many of us do not realize just how much we consume in a day, and My Fitness Pal provides you with the transparency you need to make healthier choices at home and on the go.  It also syncs with various apps and devices.  

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Down Dog

Down Dog is easily the best yoga app on the market.  Since its release, the Down Dog team has constantly released updates that help to improve the app and its customization options.  You start by selecting the sequence type you want--full practice, restorative, or quick flow--then choose your level, and how long you want your practice to be.  You can choose from different playlists to set the mood, how fast you want the pace to be, and what kind of a boost you want.  In terms of customization, you can get more out of using this app than attending classes at an actual yoga studio.  The guide offers clear instructions as you work, and the visuals are simple and elegant.  This is a must for anyone who enjoys their yoga.  

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FitStar

If you use a FitBit, then you have no doubt heard of FitStar.  However, you do not need to own a FitBit to take advantage of this app.  FitStar is designed to create custom workout plans that are tailored to your body type and goals.  The app will generate a daily workout for you or you can choose workouts that interest you.  The trainers are fun, motivational, and provide clear instructions on how to complete the workouts.  My one complaint is that if you are a beginner, sometimes the exercises can be a little too tough, even when they are supposed to be geared specifically to your needs.  However, the trainers will usually tell you how you can modify the movements if they are feeling like too much for you.  

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Sworkit

Sworkit is an app similar to FitStar in that it creates a workout plan that is just for you.  However, it is a little less interactive than FitStar.  The app uses a narrator rather than a trainer and there is little in terms of instruction on how to move; you simply mimic the example on the screen.  Despite this, it is still one of my favorite apps, and I also use their smaller apps that are targeted towards specific zones, such as abs and butt.  Sworkit also offers a kids' version that is great for helping kids stay active or just for you to enjoy with them.  While it may not be my top choice, it is still a part of my daily routine.

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Special Mention: Go Noodle

This app is not actually designed for adults to workout to.  Instead, it is designed for teachers to use with kids in their classroom.  However, if you have little ones at home, it is a good way for you to be active with them.  While there are many different channels, my favorite is Fresh Start Fitness.  Their videos involve a lot of movement, getting in a quality workout, while still keeping things light, fun, and motivational.