Fitness center visitors can be divided into three categories: those who do not keep track of their training indicators; those whose data is recorded by an instructor; and those who prefer to keep detailed records themselves. This review will be useful for the latter - I will consider the functionality of the best, in my opinion, apps for bodybuilding.
Before you start training on your own, I strongly recommend that you work with an experienced instructor for at least a month - this will help you develop the correct technique for performing exercises and avoid injuries. In addition, if you follow the technique, the results of your training will be much better.
Most of the apps listed below demonstrate the technique of performing exercises, which can create the illusion of sufficient knowledge for beginners. However, without outside supervision, even experienced athletes risk making mistakes. This is confirmed by my personal five-year experience of training in the gym, during which I, unfortunately, received several injuries.
GymKeeper
Application GymKeeper offers a large selection of ready-made training programs for muscle groups, as well as the ability to create your own complexes. The exercise database includes detailed descriptions with demonstrations of the technique via links to YouTube.
The app's functionality is impressive: a repeat maximum calculator, progression charts, and training history. After each approach, you can evaluate its difficulty. A missed workout can be rescheduled.
GymKeeper remembers weights and reps, so repeated sets are automatically logged. When set parameters change, appropriate adjustments are made.
Thus, the application optimizes the process of keeping a training diary, allowing you to focus on the exercises themselves. Extensive customization and data analysis options make GymKeeper an indispensable assistant for both beginners and advanced athletes.
Gym Workout Planner & Tracker
Application Gym Workout Planner & Tracker offers flexible workout settings. You can create different types of workouts using preset or custom exercises.
Free training programs are of high quality. There is the possibility of generating personal complexes by artificial intelligence based on goals and level of training.
The app provides detailed statistics on loads, muscles worked and duration of training. Weights of lifted equipment and body measurements are monitored with visualization in the form of graphs. All options, including rest timers with flexible settings, are available in the free version.
Unlocking advanced features is offered at an affordable price as a one-time payment.
Workout Tracker & Gym Plan Log
Application Workout Tracker & Gym Plan Log is characterized by wide compatibility and integration with other services. It supports Samsung Galaxy Watch smartwatches, synchronizes with Samsung Health and Google Fit. Data backup to the cloud and import are provided.
The application's functionality includes the creation of personalized workouts using supersets, interval protocols, and cardio loads. A detailed analysis of the exercises performed and the muscle groups involved is implemented. It is possible to create complexes for the muscles being worked.
To implement progressive overload, tracking of strength training parameters is provided. After each approach, you can add it to the history with one click or adjust the number of repetitions and weight actually performed. The calculation of the one-repetition maximum is also implemented.
Pro Gym Workout
Distinctive features of the application Pro Gym Workout are detailed video instructions on how to perform exercises and nutritional recommendations.
The videos are filmed directly in the gym, demonstrate proper technique and contain valuable tips on preventing injuries. The trainer explains in detail the muscle groups involved. The videos are available offline.
The app includes a wide range of exercises for each muscle group with descriptions of the working muscles. You can add personal notes to the exercises. A BMI calculator and protein intake calculator are available.
Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the need to pay for downloading ready-made training programs. There is some advertising. There is no possibility to create supersets.
Gym Workout & Personal Trainer
Application Gym Workout & Personal Trainer generates personalized training programs based on user surveys. Available equipment, physical fitness, and recovery time are taken into account.
Algorithms analyze previous workouts, age, weight, height, and the final goal. When training in different gyms, you can customize the available set of equipment for everyone. Exercises are grouped by muscle zones.
During the training process, you can adjust the pace and volume - adding repetitions or reducing weight. The application constantly adapts the load, analyzing the number of approaches, the weight used and the recovery time between sets. Thus, Gym Workout & Personal Trainer dynamically adjusts the training process to the individual characteristics of the user.
BestFit Pro
Application BestFit Pro allows you to set up training goals - building mass, strength, endurance or losing weight. Exercise sets and nutrition recommendations are created accordingly. After each workout, the application requests feedback on its intensity and offers to adjust further loads.
For each exercise, there is a detailed text and video description of the correct technique. This helps to avoid common mistakes, especially for beginners. Timers for rest between approaches with the ability to adjust the duration of pauses are implemented.
A distinctive feature is the flexibility of the programs — the order of exercises is not fixed, they can be performed in a mode convenient for the user. If you are busy or do not have the necessary exercise machine, you can replace it with an alternative exercise for the same muscle groups.
Fitness & Bodybuilding by VGFIT LLC
Application Fitness & Bodybuilding is distinguished by an extensive exercise base with a demonstration of the correct technique. The complexes are grouped by the muscles being worked: biceps, triceps, back, chest, legs, abs. It is possible to customize personal training programs.
Implemented accounting of working weights and number of repetitions for monitoring progress. There is an interval timer for rest between approaches.
The app contains sample weekly meal plans for muscle gain or weight loss. Although there is advertising in the free version, it is present in small quantities.
