Free fitness apps now cover several different jobs. Some guide a workout, while others record runs, count steps or collect data from a watch. Here, “free” means you can use a useful basic version without a required subscription. Several apps also sell extra features, so check the payment screen before starting a trial. The numbers organise the list; they are not a ranking.
A 2021 review of 28 trials involving 7,454 adults found a small-to-moderate increase in activity. The pooled result was equal to about 1,850 extra daily steps. Results varied, and the researchers called for longer studies with more diverse participants.
Choose the job before the app
Start with one need: guided workouts, a running plan, outdoor activity records or daily step tracking. This makes the free tier easier to judge.
A 2025 ABC report showed why the right connection can matter. Jo Ker lives near White Cliffs in far western New South Wales. She used a watch and app to send training data to an online coach. Her example shows a specific use for app data, rather than a reason to collect every available metric.
Free apps for guided workouts
1. Nike Training Club
The Nike app includes trainer-led and self-paced sessions. Its current library covers strength, conditioning, yoga, Pilates, mobility and equipment-free training. It suits people who want workout instructions rather than GPS tracking.
2. FitOn
FitOn offers on-demand video classes and workout plans. The free library includes cardio, strength, HIIT, yoga, Pilates, barre and dance. FitOn Pro adds paid extras such as offline downloads and premium music, but the workout library has a free option.
Running plans and audio guidance
3. Nike Run Club
The run app records distance, route, pace and heart rate. It also offers training plans and more than 300 free audio-guided runs. Its focus is spoken guidance rather than a large social feed.
4. adidas Running
adidas Running records running, walking, cycling, hiking and many other activities. Its free features include core activity statistics, challenges and community tools. Training plans cover distances from 3km through to longer races, with some features requiring paid access.
5. ASICS Runkeeper
ASICS Runkeeper records runs, walks, rides and hikes by GPS or manual entry. It includes goals and audio-guided workouts. The app is free to download, while its Go subscription adds further training and analysis features.
Apps for outdoor activity records
6. Strava
Strava can record and share runs, rides, walks and other activities at no cost. Its social feed can connect users with friends or a club already recording there. Route tools, deeper analysis and some safety features sit in the paid subscription.
7. MapMyRun
MapMyRun records routes, distance, pace and elevation. It can also give audio feedback during an activity and log other workout types. The basic app is free, with extra training and analysis tools sold separately.
Step counters and device dashboards
8. Pacer
Pacer uses a phone or Apple Watch to record steps, distance and active time. It also includes walking groups, challenges and GPS route tools. Some plans and advanced tools require a subscription.
9. Google Health (formerly Fitbit)
The Fitbit app became Google Health in 2026. It collects activity, workout and sleep records from Fitbit devices, Pixel Watch and supported apps. The app is free to download, but some coaching and analysis features require paid access or compatible hardware.
10. Samsung Health
Samsung Health is free on Android 10 or later. It records steps and exercise on compatible phones, with wider tracking available through selected Galaxy devices. Some advanced features depend on the phone, watch and Australian service availability.
Check the free tier before committing
- Payment: Check whether a trial changes to a paid subscription automatically.
- Device: Confirm the app works with your phone, watch or fitness tracker.
- Privacy: Review which activity, location and health data the app collects or shares.
- Fit: Keep the app that makes your chosen task simple. Remove features you do not use.
Prices and free features can change. Check the Australian app listing before downloading, especially when a workout plan or device connection is essential.
