Once a pandemic necessity, virtual fitness apps and platforms have become a mainstay. Here, our Brain Trust members share their favorites.
Whitney Tingle, cofounder of Sakara Life
“There’s a new fitness app I’ve been trying out: TF Studiowith Tasha Franken ($20/month). Pilates is the one workout where I can truly see and feel a difference in my body, and I love that Tasha’s workouts are short enough—but still impactful—to fit in between meetings. I also have to credit my Oura Ring ($400) for helping me get the sleep I need in order to work out. Sleep is so essential to our health and recovery, yet so many people struggle to get enough of it while balancing the stresses of life, family and work.”
Justine Marjan, celebrity hairstylist
“I love fitness apps! They’ve been the best way I’ve found to stay motivated and healthy through 2020 and beyond. Lately I’ve been using the Tone It Up app ($15/month) from Katrina Scott. I did her six-week 6:40 challenge and it was amazing. Each day she targets a different part of the body with a 40-minute workout. It felt completely manageable with my busy lifestyle and it also has a great nutrition component with delicious, healthy recipes.
Another app I love is The Pilates Class ($29/month)by Jacqui Kingswell. This was the first type of workout I did to rehabilitate my core after having a baby. The postpartum classes are amazing for new moms, and some of them even incorporate the baby into the routine, which makes them feel more attainable with a newborn.”
Charles Chen, celebrity chef
“I am currently obsessed with the Nike Run Club app ($15/month) and highly recommend it. As someone training for their first triathlon, I find it to be super helpful in tracking my progress, and there is a built-in community—not to mention, motivation from a virtual running coach. I am fortunate to live by the ocean, so I love to go for runs. But to continue stretching my own workouts, it’s helpful to use an app.”
Marla Beck, cofounder of Bluemercury
“I love to do high-intensity interval training on the treadmill—it’s a great way to clear my mind and reset for the day. I currently use the Equinox+ app ($40/month) for its Precision Running Treadmill classes, which were developed by running coach David Silk. My favorite right now is the interval training run modeled after the Boston Marathon—it’s called ‘The Boston Kick.’
Andrea Rogers, founder of Xtend Barre
“OpenFit ($8/month) is my go-to app for all things fitness, nutrition and motivation. On top of its incredible trainers who offer a massive library of on-demand programming, it also offers a one-of-a-kind approach to live classes, in which you have a guided video to follow. Only the trainer can see you, so you are able to receive real-time feedback on your form and technique in the privacy of your own space. The community element also creates a wonderful way to stay motivated and get results!”
Arshia Moorjani, content creator
“I love Melissa Wood Health’s app ($10/month) right now! It’s so easy to follow, and I appreciate the slower movements, especially postpartum. There are even workouts dedicated to women after they give birth. Her exercises are simple, yet effective.”
Bart Kaczanowicz, content creator
“Every morning, between my first cold brew and tackling the inbox, I take a four-mile walk to clear my head, oxygenate my body and catch up on my favorite podcasts. I activate the Map My Walk app (free)—it’s made by Under Armour—to track my progress, pace and timing details in real time. It’s a low-pressure accountability tool with multiple insights that helps me meet my goals and encourages me to literally go that extra mile.”