Now that the summer Olympics are on, you’re becoming motivated again to do more than binge watch Stranger Things on Netflix. And chances are you’re New Year’s resolution didn’t go as planned. Luckily, the app store has blessed us with some free and entertaining ways to get back on track. Each of these apps I have used all summer, so I give them my blessing.
1. Zombies, Run!
Is an app that immerses you into a post-apocalyptic world. Each mission is roughly 45 minutes long and loaded with zombies. You can choose to turn the zombies on or off, depending if you want to spirit for your life or not. Meaning, there is interval training within the app, so when you hear zombies you need to speed up, otherwise they’ll catch you. The app also includes a “base camp” where the supplies and survivors you collected while running will show up. However, I didn’t like the fact that only one season is free. So if you want to go long term, it’ll cost you $2.99 for the Pro Membership. I enjoyed the story-line that came with the missions. It definitely spiced up my boring run around town. (Sorry to those I’ve scared running like a maniac to avoid virtual zombies.)
4.5 / 5 Brains.
2. Sworkit
Is the perfect app for those who have no idea what to do when working out. The app includes workout categories such as, strength, cardio, yoga, and stretching. From there you can choose how long you have (5 to 60 minutes) and the app does the rest for you...besides the exercise, you have to do that. It is a plain jane app so it is easy to use no matter how old you are. I enjoy the app for when I don’t have time to go to the gym or if I’m in a rush. But, what really stuck out for me was the “skip ability” which allows you to skip certain workouts and replaces them with a more modified version. One thing I don’t like is after awhile the workouts can become repetitive. If you’d like you can pay $4.99 a month in order to create custom workouts.
3.5 / 5 Sore Muscles
3. FitBit
Though it isn’t necessarily an app, it’s a great way to stay on track. The ease of the FitBit tracking everything for you is a dream. However, you do have to add your food in through the app itself on your smartphone. Personally, I enjoy the “friendly” competitions you can have with friends and the badges you receive when reaching certain milestones. Overall, the app is everything a person could need to aid in getting healthy.
4.9 / 5 Olympic Medals
4. Pokemon Go
The app of all apps right now; except for that "update" wtf guys. Whoever thought that playing video games could get you in shape? With the epic action music in the background and the constant need to go further in order to find something besides caterpies, weedles, pidgeys, and rattatas, it's a workout. The mindless walking for hours turns into 10 miles real quick. Not to mention the need to travel 3+ miles to hatch an egg. This is a great app for all ages and a way to show kids today what great pokemon look like. The only down side is the constant server crashes and the people who cheat by having their moms drive them around town to catch 'em all. (Totally not guilty of this.)
10 / 5 Master balls
5. My Fitness Pal *
Entertaining? No. Useful? Yes. This app is excellent for keeping track of your macros and food intake. The bar-code scanner feature makes it even easier to track with your busy lifestyle. There is also a journal feature on the app to record anything extra that you may have done during the day. I like the app for the reminder notifications to track my meals. Also, the app sets realistic goals for you during the setup process so you're more likely to succeed.
4.7 / 5 Bowls of Pasta
Get Moving!
