Get a Smart Workout with These Apps

The explosion in health technology means a huge number of apps and wearables can now monitor your physical activity in order to improve your health and fitness. With so many apps available, it can be daunting trying to pick the best one for your needs, but this guide should help.

For those of you motivated by competition, the Strava app may be a good choice. The app is available for both runners and cyclists, and allows users to track their workouts, as well as displaying which other users are currently out exercising. The most important part, however, is that users can compete to set section records for particular trails.

The Mountain Athletics training app from The North Face offers six-week workouts and acts as a kind of personal trainer, providing extra motivation for users. Choose from workouts aimed at improving performance in cross-country skiing, running or climbing, depending on what you will be doing on your next trip.

For some people, gamifying training sessions works most effectively. Zombies, Run! is an app in which users must outrun, yes, you guessed it, zombies. A well-developed storyline means exercise does not feel like a chore.

On the other hand, if peer pressure is more likely to get you to hit the gym, download Fitocracy. The app is a social network for gym bunnies which allows users to score points and gain achievements by performing workouts. Scores are posted online for other users to react to, adding a social element to your routine.