The Best Online Fitness Programs

Saturday, March 22nd

2025 Online Fitness Program Reviews

FitOn

• Cost: Free basic version, premium "Pro" subscription is $24.99 for 6 months
• Workouts include strength, abs, arms, low intensity, no equipment options
• Workouts typically 10-30 minutes long
• Algorithm-driven personalized fitness plans based on fitness level, goals, and preferences
• Celebrity trainers including Halle Berry, Jonathan Van Ness, Bob Harper, and more
• Clear indication of equipment needed before starting any workout
• Mobile apps for iOS and Android with clean, user-friendly interfaces and positive ratings
• Dashboard displays daily streak, weekly workout progress, total minutes moved, and calories burned
• Premium "FitOn Party" feature allows users to video call friends while working out
• Personalized meal plans and recipes available with Pro subscription
• Good customer support

You're about to discover something pretty amazing - a completely free online fitness platform that doesn't skimp on quality. FitOn offers premium workouts and personalized fitness plans without charging you a dime (and no, they're not secretly selling your data - we checked the privacy policy).

Created by a fitness industry expert

Founded by former Fitbit executive Lindsay Cook, who understood firsthand the challenges of squeezing in workouts as a busy professional and parent, FitOn aims to break down the barriers that keep people from accessing quality fitness content. Instead of settling for basic workout GIFs or getting lost in endless YouTube searches, you'll get access to well-produced, effective workouts that fit your schedule and fitness level.

Setting up your FitOn account is quick and straightforward

You won't need to give up your credit card info to make a FitOn account, so you might as well sign up to see everything the platform has to offer. The signup process is thorough but manageable - you'll enter basic info like your email and name, followed by personal details including gender, birthday, height, and weight. Then you'll customize your experience by selecting fitness goals (like staying toned or reducing stress), setting your weekly workout preferences, and picking your favorite class types. (Just a heads up - once you finish signing up, you'll get hit with an auto-playing promo video for FitOn Pro, complete with somewhat startling background music.)

A clean, well-organized dashboard keeps you motivated

When you open FitOn, you'll see a sleek dashboard that tracks everything that matters - your daily streak, weekly workout progress, total minutes moved, and calories burned. Before starting any workout, you'll be able to see exactly what equipment you need, and you can even schedule sessions ahead of time to stay on track.

Filter workouts to match your exact needs and interests

FitOn's algorithm will suggest workout routines that match your specific fitness level, preferences, and goals (and their internal data shows these personalized plans help users stick to their workouts 40% more than generic ones). You can filter every workout FitOn has to offer based on type (like strength, abs, or no-equipment), genre (including meditation and stretching), or even celebrity trainers (featuring familiar faces like Halle Berry and Jonathan Van Ness). And while some "Experiences" are clearly sponsored content - looking at you, Talkspace videos - most offerings are genuine fitness content.

Pro features add convenience but aren't essential

While the free version is surprisingly robust, upgrading to Pro gets you some nice perks: you can download workouts for offline viewing, sync with your fitness tracker, join exclusive community groups (though there are groups for free members, too), and get personalized meal plans. You'll also unlock premium music tracks and the ability to work out virtually with friends through FitOn Party. (But honestly? The free version gives you more than enough to work with.)

Pro version starts at $29.99/year

If you're thinking about upgrading to FitOn Pro, you'll be happy to know there are some pretty good deals available. When we reviewed the app, they were offering a hefty 70% discount on their premium subscription plans. You could get a 6-month plan for just $24.99 (normally $79.99) or go for the better value annual subscription at $29.99 (down from $99.99). For just $5 more than the half-year option, the yearly plan gives you twice the access time, making it the smarter choice if you're planning to stick with your fitness routine. (At these prices, it's significantly cheaper than most gym memberships.)

Multiple revenue streams keep the lights on

You might wonder how FitOn stays in business while offering so much for free. Well, they've got it figured out - premium subscriptions make up 60% of their revenue, and they also partner with corporations to provide employee wellness programs (which means you might be able to access a gym membership with FitOn through your employer). Plus, they generate additional income through brand partnerships and the sponsored content we mentioned earlier, all while staying true to their mission of making premium fitness accessible to everyone.

A highly-rated app that works on nearly any device you own

We're happy to report that FitOn has earned impressive ratings on both major app stores (4.6 stars from 93,000 Android users and an even better 4.9 stars from 283,000 iOS users). You can access your workouts through the mobile app on any recent iPhone or Android device, through your web browser, or on your TV using popular streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, or Chromecast. While some users have reported minor TV casting issues, FitOn's support team is quick to help resolve any technical problems. The app works smoothly on newer devices - you'll just need Android 4.4W or iOS 11.0 and above, plus an internet connection for streaming (though you can download workouts for offline use if you upgrade to Pro). Apple Watch users get the bonus feature of heart rate tracking, which is particularly handy for monitoring your workout intensity.

Users love the variety and flexibility

We found that users absolutely love this app, praising everything from the workout variety to the encouraging instructors. The free version gives you plenty of options for different workout styles and lengths (though one reviewer complained there were "too many options"). Most workouts are 10-30 minutes long, which many users appreciate for fitting exercise into busy schedules (though if you're looking for longer sessions, you might need to string a few together). People love how the instructors work out alongside you, acknowledging the challenge and keeping you motivated. Users consistently praise how easy the app is to navigate, and many who switched from paid alternatives say they're getting better value with FitOn. (And when an app's biggest criticism is that it offers too many choices, you know they're doing something right.)

FitOn delivers exceptional value you won't find elsewhere

FitOn delivers what other fitness apps charge premium prices for - and they do it for free. With celebrity trainers, personalized workout plans, and options for all fitness levels, you won't feel like you're missing out on anything. Whether you're squeezing in quick 10-minute sessions or building a comprehensive fitness routine, FitOn gives you the tools you need without the price tag. For that, they earn our first-place ranking overall for online fitness.

SHRED

• Cost: $19.99/month or $119.99/year, 7-day free trial available, limited free version with 3 premium workouts
• Gym workouts (30-35, 50-60, or 65-75 minutes), bodyweight routines (20, 40, or 60 minutes), cardio sessions (20, 40, or 60 minutes), six different workout styles (Lean-X, Athlete, Tone, Signature, CrossShred, Bulk)
• Customized plans based on gender, fitness level, goals, workout frequency; can change workout style/location anytime; exercise alternatives available (up to 24 options for some exercises)
• All workouts created by expert trainers and personalized with AI; two coaching style options (positive or intense)
• Options for gym equipment or bodyweight only; can indicate unavailable equipment in settings to automatically adjust workouts
• Mobile-only app (iOS and Android), no desktop version
• Create/join fitness groups; sync workouts with partners; challenge friends and family; see stories from other users; see who's working out simultaneously
• Additional unique features: built-in timers during workouts; motivational quotes between exercises; form tips; optional cardio finishers; AI weight recommendations

SHRED helps you work out smarter and harder, whether you're doing bodyweight workouts at home or have access to gym equipment. You'll get personalized workout programs created by expert trainers and fine-tuned for you with AI. What makes SHRED special is their team's dedication - they've personally tested every workout in their system (sometimes multiple times) and built each program through careful planning rather than letting algorithms do all the work. Their trainers are genuinely passionate about helping you reach your fitness goals through effective, efficient workouts. (And honestly, it shows in their product quality.)

SHRED onboarding covers everything

When you sign up for SHRED, you'll be asked to provide some basic information about yourself and your fitness goals. You'll select your gender, fitness level (beginner, intermediate, or advanced), and specific goals like getting bigger, getting shredded, or losing weight. The app also asks how many days per week you work out (3-6), what type of gym you use, whether you prefer a positive or intense coaching style (beware - "intense” comes with profanity), and your height.

You'll choose from six different workout styles based on your goals

Options include Lean-X for efficient weight loss and definition, Athlete for dynamic exercises that develop lean muscle, Tone for long and lean muscles, Signature for all-around muscular development, CrossShred for advanced cross-training, and Bulk for those focused on size gains. Each style uses different training approaches to target specific fitness outcomes. We find this aspect the most exciting part of SHRED's offerings. If you've ever been unsure if your workouts are taking you where you want to go, SHRED can give you the redirection you need.

No credit card is required to try SHRED's free version

After entering your name and email, you'll see pricing options including a 12-month plan, 1-month plan, 7-day free trial, or a limited free experience. The limited free option gives you access to three premium workouts before requiring payment. Paid plans cost $19.99/month or $119.99/year - a fair price for the quality of workout you'll be getting.

SHRED offers workout variety that fits your schedule perfectly

SHRED gives you tons of workout options with different time commitments - making this app perfect for both the busy professional and the committed powerlifter. You can choose gym workouts (30-35, 50-60, or 65-75 minutes), bodyweight routines (20, 40, or 60 minutes), or cardio sessions (20, 40, or 60 minutes). We absolutely love that you can swap exercises you don't like - almost every exercise has at least one alternative, and some have up to 24 different options that still target the same muscle groups. The app keeps you moving with built-in timers, shows motivational quotes between exercises, gives you form tips, and even lets you add quick cardio finishers at the end of your workout. This isn't just a workout logger - it actively guides you through each session like a real personal trainer would. (The personal trainer comparison gets thrown around a lot with online fitness apps, but we think SHRED actually delivers on that promise.)

SHRED offers plenty of personalization to make the app work for you

You can easily customize your SHRED experience to fit your changing workout needs. Need to switch between gym and home workouts? No problem - you can change your workout style or location anytime in the settings. When equipment isn't available, simply indicate that in the app and your workouts will automatically adjust to exclude those machines. You can even change how many days per week you train by accessing the Account section in Settings, which helps ensure your muscle splits are optimally arranged.

The social features make fitness more fun and motivating

SHRED makes fitness a social experience. You can create or join fitness groups, sync workouts with a partner, or challenge friends and family to friendly competitions. One nice touch is being able to see stories from other users and even see who's working out at the same time as you are. Users will send you encouragement during your session - creating that community gym feeling even when you're exercising alone.

Tech support is on top of it

Customer support seems exceptionally responsive based on user feedback, with members praising how quickly the team answers questions and makes you "feel like a person, not just a 'trouble ticket'". The developers consistently update the app based on user feedback, showing they're invested in continuously improving the experience. This kind of responsive development is surprisingly rare in fitness apps, and it's refreshing to see a company that actually listens to its users.

Users love SHRED's workout quality and ease of use

SHRED has earned impressive ratings from users - 4.8/5 stars from over 37,000 iOS users and 4.6/5 stars from 915 Android reviewers. When you check out what actual users are saying, you'll find people raving about how SHRED eliminates the hassle of planning workouts and tracking progress. One lifelong exerciser loves that they can simply "show up to the gym, open the app, and do what it says," appreciating how it tracks progress, keeps them moving with timers, and provides motivation throughout workouts - all while being "a lot cheaper than a personal trainer". Even former college athletes find value in the app, with one D1 athlete highlighting how SHRED offers exercises for any fitness goal, whether you want to bulk up, lean out, or lose weight. (Clearly, the app is hitting the mark with both everyday gym-goers and serious athletes alike.)

One of our favorites

SHRED doesn't include nutrition tracking or meal plans, but don't let that stop you from trying it. The app focuses on doing what it does best - delivering excellent workout guidance from personal trainers rather than trying to be everything at once. You'll find it especially valuable if you already have some gym experience and want to take your fitness routine to the next level. The well-designed workouts, customization options, and social features make this a standout choice among fitness apps. (And let's be honest - most of us end up ignoring the nutrition features in all-in-one fitness apps anyway.) SHRED wins our second-place ranking among the options for online fitness.

Jillian Michaels

• Cost: 7-day free trial; $19.99/month or $149.99/year
• 40% discounts for military, nurses, first responders, teachers, and students; potential lifetime access offer for existing members; may be HSA/FSA eligible
• Extensive variety including strength, yoga, bootcamp, kickboxing, cardio, prenatal, HIIT, stretching, restorative, core, running, walking, Jill's DVD library, gym training, and audio-only workouts
• Workout Generator creates custom sessions based on time, intensity, and target areas; ability to ban exercises you don't want to do; option to swap out moves; adjustable time between exercises
• No-nonsense, straight-talking motivational instructor style
• Well-rated app
• Features include workout history, progress photos, weight tracker, and badges
• Nutrition tracking and meal planning with options for different diets including keto and vegan

You may know Jillian Michaels from "The Biggest Loser" or her best-selling workout DVDs, and while she's stirred up some controversy over the years with her TV persona and public statements, her app has earned serious credentials in the online fitness space. The Fitness App is specifically designed for women and has risen to become the top-rated diet and exercise app in its category, even winning best-of awards from both Google and Apple. With a massive following of over 100 million across various platforms, Michaels has transformed her personal journey from an overweight child to a certified fitness expert into a comprehensive digital wellness platform that combines workouts, nutrition guidance, and lifestyle coaching.

$19.99 a month

You can start with a 7-day free trial to test out the Jillian Michaels Fitness App. After that, you've got two main subscription choices: pay monthly at $19.99, or save by going annually at $149.99. There are also special 40% discounts available if you're military personnel, a nurse, first responder, teacher, or student.

Lifetime access sometimes available for existing members

We've also seen a few mentions from customers about a Lifetime Access offer that lets you make a one-time payment and get unlimited access to the app forever, but this deal is only available to existing members, and the price isn't advertised anywhere that we could find. (We think it's smart to try the app first anyway before committing to a lifetime subscription - after all, you wouldn't buy a car without test driving it first, right?)

Subscription may be HSA/FSA eligible

Here's some good news for your wallet: you might be able to use your HSA or FSA to pay for your Jillian Michaels Fitness App membership, potentially saving around 30% through tax-free spending. If you've got one of these accounts, you can check if you qualify through the TrueMed page on the Jillian Michaels website (it's a quick 2-minute process).

Everything from stretching to strength

After signing up for Jillian Michaels, the app will walk you through some questions to customize your experience and set up your profile. You'll land on a personalized dashboard where the "Me" tab becomes your fitness command center - here you can track your daily workouts, check out tips, schedule sessions, log meals, and monitor your progress through features like workout history and progress photos. The "For You" tab makes choosing workouts a breeze with tailored recommendations spanning everything from interactive programs to audio workouts. For variety beyond your recommendations, hop over to the Browse section where you can explore specific workout categories, including:

• Strength
• Yoga
• Bootcamp
• Kickboxing
• Cardio
• Prenatal
• HIIT
• Stretching
• Restorative
• Core
• Running
• Walking
• Jill's DVD Library
• Gym Training
• Audio Only

Workouts adapt to your needs

You'll have plenty of control over your workout experience with this app. You can ban exercises you don't want to do, swap out moves that aren't working for you, and even adjust the time between exercises to match your pace. The Workout Generator is our favorite feature. It lets you create custom sessions based on your available time, preferred intensity, and target areas - whether you want to focus on abs, arms, or total body training.

Full wellness experience

By now, everyone probably knows that the body of your dreams is made in the kitchen as much as the gym, so it's great that Jillian Michaels goes beyond just workouts, offering nutrition tracking and meal planning features with options for different diets like keto and vegan. Stress can lead to snacking on foods that don't fit your plans, so we appreciate that Jillian Michaels also includes meditation and breathwork sessions for complete wellness.

No refunds for auto-renewal, so cancel 2 days before

You can cancel your subscription anytime through the Jillian Michaels website or your device's app store subscription management center. Just remember to cancel at least 48 hours before your next billing date to avoid charges, because you won't get refunds for cancellations after being charged. You'll keep access until the end of your paid period, however.

App works better than some rival fitness apps

The Jillian Michaels app has won awards for a reason - it has impressive ratings of 4.7/5 on iOS and 4.5/5 on Android, with thousands of reviews on each platform. While some users have reported sync issues with meal plans and occasional streaming glitches, what matters most is how the customer support team responds. Fortunately, they seem to be pretty proactive - we saw them reaching out directly to users experiencing problems, promising to get to the bottom of the issue. That's more than we can say for some of Jillian Michaels' competitors.

Jillian's personality is part of the package

Earlier, we mentioned some controversy about Jillian Michael herself - she seems to be a polarizing figure in the online fitness scene, especially among those familiar with her from her Biggest Loser days. If you're not sure if you'll like her no-nonsense, straight-talking style, this app won't be right for you - you won't find a rotating cast of different trainers here. That said, most people say they appreciate how her coaching style motivates them to achieve their goals. You can check out the hashtag ‘#thefitnessapp' on social media to see how current users are incorporating the workouts into their daily routines and what results they're achieving.

Jillian Michaels delivers on fitness and nutrition

Looking for a workout app that also helps you eat better? With nutrition tracking and meal planning features that support various eating styles like keto and vegan, this app can give you the guidance you need beyond just exercise. Most fitness experts agree that proper nutrition is at least 80% of the equation when you're trying to reach health goals. Add in the app's stress-busting meditation and breathwork sessions, and you've got a complete wellness package that addresses all aspects of your health journey. Jillian Michaels should be on your list of online fitness contenders.

Fitness Blender

• Cost: $8.99/month or $79.99/year with auto-renewal; 7-day free trial; short-term passes available from $2.99 (1-day) to $44.99 (90 days)
• 707 free videos and 908 premium workouts; includes barre, cardio, HIIT, kettlebell, kickboxing, pilates, strength training, yoga, and more; difficulty levels 1-5
• FB Plus offers custom programs, personal routines, and swappable workouts; filters for difficulty levels and equipment
• Friendly, down-to-earth teaching style with focus on proper form
• Five meal plans available for purchase; 128 dietitian-approved recipes with FB Plus; meal plans include grocery lists and can be scaled to nutritional needs

Fitness Blender is refreshingly different from typical online fitness platforms. Founded in 2010 by trainers Kelli and Daniel, this service prioritizes your health and fitness journey over flashy marketing tactics. What makes it stand out is how they've built a platform that truly puts users first - they offer high-quality workouts for all budgets, with content created by qualified professionals including personal trainers, physical therapists, dietitians, and psychologists. Instead of pushing expensive supplements or showing off six-packs, they focus on delivering research-backed, effective workouts that you can actually enjoy, whether you're working out at home or have access to a gym.

Over 700 free videos

Fitness Blender offers quite the workout catalog: 707 free videos and 908 premium ones. (You'll be happy to know that you can start working out right away without even creating an account.) Fitness Blender regularly adds fresh content and makes it easy to find popular workouts with their trending collections. Whether you're into high-intensity cardio or gentle stretching, you can easily filter workouts by your preferred style, including everything from barre and kickboxing to yoga and prenatal exercises. The platform lets you get specific about your workout needs too - you can filter by equipment required, difficulty level (rated 1-5), and even expected calorie burn.

Professional instruction that puts safety first

We're really pleased with how well these trainers guide you through each workout. They really know their stuff and have a friendly, down-to-earth way of showing you exactly how to do each move safely and effectively. Want to try a challenging total body strength routine for the first time? How about mixing things up with a barre/walking fusion class? The instructors will guide you every step of the way. One thing to note though: you'll want to queue up your favorite workout playlist since the videos come without music.

$8.99/month for Plus is competitive

Interested in FB Plus? For $8.99 monthly or $79.99 yearly (with auto-renewal), this premium membership removes ads and gives you access to 99 trainer-created programs, 908 professional workouts, 115 expert articles, and 128 dietitian-approved recipes. You'll also be able to track your progress, view statistics for your activities, schedule your workouts, and create custom ones. You can try it free for a week before committing.

Flexible payment options for commitment-phobes

If you're not ready for a subscription, you can buy short-term passes ranging from $2.99 for one day to $44.99 for 90 days. These passes give you full access to everything FB Plus offers without a long-term commitment, and you can stack multiple passes for longer access. There is a 1-year pass without auto-renewal, but it costs $134.99 (as opposed to $79.99 with auto-renewal). If you're going to buy a year of membership, it makes more sense to sign up for the subscription with auto-renewal and set a reminder to cancel in time.

Meal plans and wellness programs

You can also purchase meal plans and wellness programs directly, and they'll include access to all Pro features for their duration. While the selection of meal plans is relatively small (only five options), they cover popular areas like strength training nutrition, quick meals, and global cuisine. These plans come with everything you need to succeed: grocery lists, educational resources, and the ability to adjust portions to your preferences. Plus, there are four wellness-focused "pilot plans" that help you tackle challenges like better sleep, body image, and stress management.

No app required

You'll get reliable video streaming since Fitness Blender uses YouTube's player, and the website stays up-to-date with fresh features and bug fixes. While there hasn't been a dedicated smartphone app for quite some time (which might actually be a relief if you're trying to minimize screen time), you can still access workouts through your phone's web browser - though the experience may not be quite as polished as using a computer. The lack of an app might be a dealbreaker if you're planning to exercise on the go without laptop access, but the web-based platform should work across different devices and browsers.

Recommended by personal trainers

Fitness Blender gets great customer reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, especially from people who've stuck with Fitness Blender for years and achieved the results they were hoping for using just the free features. People commonly mention how the approachable style of the trainers make them feel more like workout buddies than intimidating fitness gurus. We even found a glowing review from a personal trainer, saying that if they had to recommend an online fitness platform to anyone, it would be Fitness Blender. (Now that's high praise.) The only major hangup people have about FB is that you can't download videos for offline use.

Free is free, but you get what you pay for

You'll get a lot of value from Fitness Blender, especially since they offer so many free workouts that anyone can use. However, you should know that the platform feels a bit scattered compared to other options - even with an FB Plus subscription, you might find yourself piecing together your own workout plan from their various videos and challenges. The biggest downside is that workouts don't come with music, so if you play your own tunes, you might miss some of the instructor's cues (and trying to sync your playlist with the exercises is basically impossible). While Fitness Blender is perfect if you're looking for free, quality online workouts, you might want to look elsewhere if you need features like a smartphone app, fitness tracker integration, or built-in workout music.

BODi

• Cost: 3-year plan ($0.27/day, $299 upfront, renews at $179/year), 12-month plan ($0.49/day, $179/year), 3-month plan ($0.98/day, $89/quarter) with 14-day free trial
• 31-day money-back guarantee on initial subscription
• 146 programs spanning cardio, strength, yoga, HIIT, barre, dance, pilates, and meditation; workout durations from under 30 minutes to 50+ minutes; intensity levels from beginner to advanced
• Some programs require equipment (dumbbells, adjustable bench), others focus on bodyweight exercises
• Includes meal plans with over 1,000 recipes; programs often integrate nutrition guidance alongside workouts

You might know BODi better by its former name, Beachbody - one of the biggest names in at-home fitness since 1998. Founded in sunny California, the company started with a simple mission: helping people get fit at home. They've grown from selling workout videos to becoming a complete digital fitness platform, offering everything from their famous P90X program to nutrition guidance. (And while they're known for pushing their Shakeology supplements pretty hard, you can absolutely use their workout programs without buying into that side of things.)

Impressively diverse workout collection

At BODi, you'll find a massive collection of 146 programs spanning nearly every type of exercise imaginable. Whether you're into traditional workouts like strength training and cardio, or prefer specialized activities like barre, kickboxing, or MMA, there's something for everyone. The platform even includes options for specific needs like pre/post-natal workouts and kids/family programs.

Programs that go beyond just exercise

These aren't just random workout videos thrown together. Take the popular Dig Deeper program, which offers 23 structured workouts ranging from 25-50 minutes, complete with specific equipment requirements and expert guidance from trainer Shaun T. The programs often integrate nutrition guidance and recipes, like in the women's health program, Belle Vitale, that addresses hormone balance through a combination of fitness, nutrition, and wellness approaches.

Well-structured plans for every goal

BODi takes a systematic approach to fitness, as demonstrated by programs like Muscle Burns Fat (#MBF). This 3-week program includes daily 25-35 minute workouts, complete with a structured schedule, recovery days, and resources like workout calendars and nutrition guides. (We find that having everything planned out makes it so much harder to skip a workout.)

A much simpler pricing structure than before

Thankfully, BODi has significantly simplified their pricing from their previous complicated system of multiple tiers, add-ons, and confusing BODi integration options. Now, you have three straightforward subscription choices that all include the same features.

Starts at $0.27/day for 3-year commitment

The best deal is the 3-year plan at $0.27/day ($299 upfront, renewing at $179/year). If you prefer shorter commitments, there's a 12-month plan at $0.49/day ($179/year)or a 3-month plan at $0.98/day ($89/quarter) that includes a 14-day free trial. All plans include access to BODi's 130+ workout programs, from P90X to LIIFT4, plus healthy meal plans with over 1,000 recipes.

Strict auto-renewal policy with no refunds

The number one complaint customers have about BODi is about their auto-renewal policy, which isn't forgiving if you miss the cancellation window. Here's what you need to know to avoid getting stuck with an unwanted charge: the company will send you an email 30 days before your renewal date with pricing details and a link to manage your subscription. While you get a 31-day money-back guarantee on your first subscription purchase, this doesn't apply to renewals, so you'll need to be proactive and cancel at least three days before your renewal date to avoid getting charged. (BODi absolutely will not budge on this, even if you threaten to get a lawyer involved.)

Users love the app's reliability and workout variety

That said, BODi's app has earned an impressive 4.4-star average rating on Google Play from nearly 27,000 reviews. People consistently praise the platform's extensive workout options, with many appreciating how you can do the exercises both at home and in the gym - or even while camping, according to one user. The BODi app remembers where you left off in your workout programs and automatically shows your next workout, making it really convenient to stay on track with your fitness routine. The app is said to work smoothly across most devices. (A recent exception to this is Smart TVs - hopefully a patch is forthcoming.)

Some sketchy business practices

Before you sign up, you might want to know that BODi has a history of concerning business practices. Historically, BODi has pushed a controversial "coach" program where customers become salespeople, supposedly earning up to 25% commission on sales. The reality of this program is pretty grim - the average coach only made $2,600 per year, and more than half of coaches earned nothing at all. News outlets have called this division a "scheme" since anyone could register as a coach. More recently, the company faces a class-action lawsuit in California about how they classify these independent contractors. While none of this directly impacts you as a regular customer using BODi's workout programs, it does paint a picture of a company that's willing to profit from questionable marketing tactics - something to keep in mind when you're evaluating their other claims and offerings.

We think BODi is worth trying if you prioritize structure and variety

Overall, BODi seems well-designed to help you reach your goals, and the 14-day free trial on the quarterly plan lets you test it out risk-free. Just be vigilant about the auto-renewal policy and recognize that while the workout content is solid, the company behind it has some questionable business practices. (If MLM-adjacent business models make you uncomfortable, you might want to look elsewhere.)

All Out Studio

• Cost: $14.99/month or $89.99/year, 7-day free trial (requires credit card)
• Variety of workouts including strength, muscle building, HIIT, core, yoga, and gentle exercises for older adults
• Content from major fitness publications (Men's Health, Women's Health, Runner's World, Prevention, Cosmopolitan)
• App available for iOS and Android

All Out Studio is a digital fitness platform that brings together content from some major fitness media brands, including Men's Health, Women's Health, Runner's World, Prevention, and Cosmopolitan (though they're stretching the definition of "fitness brand" with that last one). The platform essentially takes all those workout routines you've seen in their magazines and brings them to life with video instruction, making it perfect for when you've read about an exercise but aren't quite sure how to execute it properly.

Work out like a fitness influencer

You'll find All Out Studio's workout library through the "Explore Workouts" button on their homepage (though you might have to squint past some gratuitous fitness model photos to be able to see it). Once inside, you can browse through various workout series from well-known fitness publications - think Women's Health 20-minute muscle sessions or Men's Health's Dadbod Shred program.

Programs don't include required equipment lists or previews

You'll have to sign up for All Out Studio's 7-day free trial to see much more than that. We wish that this platform made it easier to see in advance which workouts require equipment; it's obvious from the thumbnails that many sessions call for dumbbells or a bench, for example. You can try it out for that week and see if the workouts here speak to you; after that, you'll automatically be subscribed monthly or annually, depending on what you selected while creating your account. You'll pay $14.99/month or $89.99/year; at the time of our most recent visit to the site, there was a 50% discount off the annual membership with a given promo code.

Free trial requires credit card info

You can try All Out Studio for free for 7 days, but you'll need to provide your credit card information upfront - so if you're just signing up to get a peek at the workouts, be sure to cancel before the week is up. When you sign up for your trial, you can choose between two pricing tiers: $14.99 per month if you prefer to pay monthly, or $89.99 for an annual subscription that saves you about $90 over the monthly rate.

Longstanding concerns about basic features

You'll find that All Out Studio gets middling reviews on both Google and iOS app stores, scoring around 3.7 out of 5 stars (and those ratings aren't exactly fresh, with minimal feedback since 2021). While some users appreciate a diverse workout selection and quality coaching, others point out the lack of basic features like progress tracking and future workout planning. One reviewer reported inconsistent production quality between programs - you might get a workout with great timers and audio cues, then try another that's missing them.

Lack of customization

One potential downside of All Out Studio is its lack of personalization options. While the platform offers a wide array of workout programs, there's no way to tailor routines based on your specific fitness goals, experience level, or preferences. Unlike other fitness platforms that offer customized plans or adaptive workout schedules, All Out Studio's offerings are more static. This could be a dealbreaker for those who want a more personalized experience or need a program that evolves with their progress.

Appeals to a narrow audience

Compared to other online fitness platforms, All Out Studio feels a bit bare-bones since it's missing features like progress tracking, community interaction, and live classes. All Out Studio will probably only appeal to magazine readers who want to see their favorite publications' workouts in action. It's not the best choice if you're looking for a modern fitness platform with all the tracking and social features we've come to expect, earning a below-average rating from us.

Daily Burn

• $14.99 monthly, $9.99 monthly with 6-month commitment, or $7.49 monthly with 12-month commitment
• Pilates, yoga, strength, HIIT, mobility, and core workouts; workouts range from 20-60 minutes
• Certified trainers, produced by same director behind P90X
• Multi-device accessibility

Daily Burn is a health and fitness company that offers workout and nutrition programs through web, mobile, and TV apps. With around 2.5 million members, they provide streaming workout videos led by certified trainers and produced by the same director behind P90X.

Important info hidden behind paywall

We really don't love that you can't see any of how the platform works until you sign up. There's no FAQ, no library of exercises to browse through - it's all just bland marketing copy until you create an account.

Subscription required from day one

When you sign up, you must immediately choose between three pricing tiers. The plans are:

• $14.99 monthly
• $9.99 monthly with 6-month commitment
• $7.49 monthly with 12-month commitment

"Risk-free trial” is misleading

Splashed all over the website is "try it risk-free for 30 days," which would imply you aren't charged until after your first 30 days - but not so. Daily Burn absolutely will take your money right now ($89.99 + taxes was due for us for the $7.49/month plan); you'll just have to trust that they'll give you your money back if you don't like the service by the end of the 30 days. Until they have your credit card info, they won't give you any further information about their service.

Various strength and mobility workout types

Daily Burn says they offer flexibility in workout duration (20-60 minutes) and multi-device accessibility. Their website includes a bare-bones list of standard workout types (pilates, yoga, strength, HIIT, mobility, and core workouts) paired with generic promises about "expert trainers" and "efficient workouts". You won't get to peek behind the curtain at actual workout content or instructor credentials to decide for yourself whether those statements are true. There's barely even a preview of the app interface to speak of.

Free trial users get fewer protections

Be aware that if you sign up for Daily Burn with a free trial, you're actually not eligible for the 30-day money-back guarantee. Once your free trial ends, you'll be automatically billed, and there are no partial refunds if you cancel mid-billing cycle. All customers must cancel at least 24 hours before the trial or subscription period ends to avoid being charged for the next period. Even if you stop using the service entirely, you're still responsible for subscription fees until you properly cancel.

You may be charged years after cancelling

You'll want to be very cautious about Daily Burn's billing practices. Customers report being charged unexpectedly even years after cancellation, with amounts ranging from $15 to $59.99. And according to one customer review, the company has a history of making huge changes to their business model without considering how customers might react. Allegedly, a few years ago Daily Burn fired all their trainers and canceled their 365 program without properly notifying subscribers, then deleted customer complaints from their Facebook group and refused refunds.

Mixed reviews on workout content and accessibility

While you will find plenty of users praising specific Daily Burn workouts and instructors, these individual experiences aren't necessarily helpful for deciding if the platform is right for you. The feedback ranges from people loving the detailed instructions and full-body workouts to others struggling with the fast pace and lack of modifications (and gee, wouldn't it be nice if you could actually preview their workout library to see how you feel about it yourself before committing?).

Our recommendation: skip it

Between the aggressive up-front payment requirements, misleading "risk-free trial" claims, concerning billing practices, and complete lack of transparency about their actual product, we can't recommend Daily Burn. When an online fitness company works this hard to prevent you from seeing their offerings before you pay, it usually means they're not confident you'll like what you find behind the curtain.

Transform

• Cost: $14.99/month with a 7-day free trial
• Over 1,500 workouts from beginner to advanced, including Bodyweight Training, Dance Party, Cross Training, Yoga, and gym workouts
• 60-second personalization setup, modifications for all exercises to accommodate different fitness levels and injuries
• Options for both home and gym: over 700 equipment-free workouts and 400+ gym-specific routines using weights and machines
• Personal journal, progress updates, personal stats tracking, streak building, and achievement badges
• Community of over 50,000 members with daily activities and events
• 800,000-item food database, custom meal planning, macro tracking, dietary preference options (Low Fat, Low Carb, Modified Keto, vegan/plant-based)

Transform is a fitness and nutrition app created by Chris Powell, who you might recognize as the host of "Extreme Weight Loss" on ABC. The app offers programs for fitness and training, nutrition and wellness, a journal to document your transformation, and community challenges. Transformation offers new users a 7-day free trial and costs $14.99/month after that.

Set your preferences in 60 seconds

Getting started with Transform is pretty easy - you'll just need to spend a minute answering some questions about what you want to achieve with your fitness journey. The app will ask about your goals, get some basic stats from you, and find out what kind of workouts you enjoy most. You've got lots of options to choose from, with a library of over 1,500 different workouts that range from total beginner to serious athlete. Whether you're into traditional bodyweight exercises, want to dance your way to fitness, prefer intense cross training sessions, or need the zen vibes of yoga, there's something in there for you.

Workouts for every style and ability

You'll find tons of ways to work out with Transform, whether you're at home or prefer hitting up the gym. The app gives you access to more than 700 workouts you can do without any equipment (perfect for traveling or home workouts), plus 400 gym-specific routines that use weights and machines. If you want to mix things up, you can try their specialty workouts like Dance Party for a fun cardio session or SōRA Yoga to improve your flexibility. What's really helpful is that every single exercise comes with modifications - so whether you're just starting out or dealing with some physical limitations, you can adjust the moves to match your fitness level.

Nutrition tracking capabilities

While fitness is the core focus, Transform includes nutrition tracking with an 800,000-item food database, custom meal planning, and macro tracking capabilities. You'll also get access to a supportive community of over 50,000 members, progress tracking features, and guidance from certified trainers including Chris Powell, who brings 20 years of transformation expertise.

Can't preview app's features without providing CC info

You'll need to give up your credit card info for that "free" trial. That isn't uncommon among fitness apps, but it does make it hard to tell what you're getting into. Thankfully, there are a large number of customer reviews to fill in the blanks. The Transform app gets a pretty mediocre 3.0 rating average on Google Play (from 1,330 reviews), though it does better on iOS with 4.4 stars.

App is buggy

Most of Transform's customer reviews were left between 2018 and 2022, with a sharp drop-off in recent years. The few people still using and reviewing Transform report frequent crashes, freezing issues (especially in the meal planning section), and frustrating navigation problems. Even loyal customers who love the content are struggling with basic functionality.

Tech support seems to be MIA

The lack of response to user complaints - even from long-time supporters of Chris Powell's programs leaving (sometimes uncomfortably personal) pleas for assistance - makes us a little sad. When users can't even get help with show-stopping bugs, that's a pretty big warning sign about the level of support you can expect.

Don't pay for a product that doesn't work

The Transform App gives you workouts and nutrition guidance for $14.99 per month, which isn't a bad deal - if you can get the app to function properly on your device. You could give the app a try during the free trial period, but we think you may ultimately decide to use another fitness app instead. If current trends continue, user support will probably only get worse, and you could end up wasting your money on something too broken to use. We'd recommend looking at one of our higher-ranked online fitness platforms instead.

Aaptiv

• Cost: Yearly plan $99.99 after 7-day free trial, monthly subscription costs $14.99
• Library of audio workouts spanning everything from treadmill sessions to strength training
• SmartCoach AI creates personalized workout plans based on goals, preferences, and fitness levels; plans adapt based on progress tracking
• Available on iOS and Android
• Users can compete in monthly fitness challenges and share "sweaty selfies" in the team feed
• New gym access partnership offering entry to 19,500+ national and boutique gyms, but only available through employer/health plan benefits, not for individual subscribers

Aaptiv began as a groundbreaking audio-first fitness platform that solved a common workout problem: the need to stare at screens while exercising. It's clear, well-produced audio workouts let you focus on form and movement while expert trainers guide you through each session.

Original features were remarkable

Aaptiv's initial strength lay in its extensive library of audio workouts, spanning everything from treadmill sessions to strength training. Integration with fitness trackers and health apps provided detailed metrics and progress tracking, while thoughtfully-structured programs helped users build consistent workout habits.

You can now get gym access through your employer benefits

Recently, Aaptiv has restructured its business model to include employer health benefits and gym access partnerships. This sounds exciting at first - you can potentially access over 19,500 national and boutique gyms and studios, with the flexibility to visit multiple locations per day (if you're into that) and no long-term contracts. However, this feature isn't available to regular Aaptiv subscribers. You can only access the gym network if it's offered through your employer or health plan benefits (and even then, some locations might limit how many times you can visit per month).

Individuals have been left behind

It's pretty obvious that the average individual is no longer Aaptiv's focus in how they've redesigned their website. When you visit their site now, you won't find clear pricing information where you'd expect it - even on the "Individuals" page, they're more interested in showing you gym locations (which you wouldn't even qualify for). You'll need to create an account just to see how much a subscription costs, which is frustrating since this information used to be readily available. (We looked into it for you: a yearly plan is $99.99 after a 7-day free trial, while a monthly subscription costs $14.99.) The website now seems laser-focused on promoting their employer benefits to the point of removing most of the helpful content that used to show you what the app can do. All that remains are a few screenshots of the app's interface and some audio workout previews. Corporate partnerships are the cool kids at the table now, while individual subscribers are left eating lunch alone.

The app might not even work well anymore

This expansion also seems to have come at the cost of maintaining and improving the app's core functionality. The app maintains above-average ratings in both the Google Play and iOS stores (for now), but there's been an influx of complaints about technical issues, from disconnected health app integrations to workout downloads failing to function. Basic features that once worked just fine now malfunction regularly. Heart rate tracking and calorie counting features have become unreliable, and the app frequently defaults to offline mode without explanation.

Your chosen gym may drop out of network without warning

If you're considering an Aaptiv membership through your employer benefits, you may still want to think twice about the value proposition. Here's a real customer's cautionary tale: They switched from a Lifetime gym membership to Aaptiv to save money, only to face a shocking 35% price increase just a week after signing up. To make matters worse, they discovered that Lifetime was no longer even available in Aaptiv's network as of November 1st of that year - information that wasn't disclosed upfront. (And if you're thinking this might be a one-off experience, another new member reported the exact same 35% price hike just days into their membership). The situation left this customer unable to return to their original gym due to waitlists, essentially trapped between higher prices and fewer benefits than they originally signed up for.

Not recommended anymore

While Aaptiv still maintains its extensive library of audio workouts (as far as we can tell), the technical issues and shift in focus suggest a company that's lost sight of what made it special. The addition of employer benefits and gym access might be great news for some, but the neglect of core features that longtime users depended on means we can no longer recommend Aaptiv as an online fitness tool.

Obé

• Cost: $24.99/month or $14.17/month with annual billing
• 10,000+ on-demand videos across cardio (HIIT, dance, boxing), strength (sculpt, pilates), yoga, and activate/recover categories
• Quiz-based personalized training plans with filters for fitness level, body focus, impact, experience level, and goals
• High-energy instructors
• Mobile app functionality - user interface, offline access: available on iOS and Android, with Chromecast and Apple TV compatibility
• Body-positive approach to fitness.

Founded in 2018 by entertainment industry veterans Ashley Mills and Mark Mullett, Obé Fitness aims to transform your relationship with movement by offering a refreshing alternative to traditional fitness culture. The platform was born from their shared love of 80s-style living room workouts (like Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons) and their recognition that existing fitness options weren't meeting modern needs. Through their signature technicolor studio called "the Box," high-energy instructors, and engaging classes, Obé provides a unique approach focused on making daily movement joyful rather than punishing.

Website includes an overview of women's history in fitness

Obé's mission directly challenges the fitness industry's history of diet culture marketing and negative messaging toward women, instead emphasizing body positivity and sustainable wellness through entertaining programs, body-positive language, and modern habit-building techniques. Their website even includes a brief timeline of women's fitness history. Can you imagine being banned from running a marathon just because you're a woman? That's exactly what Kathrine Switzer faced in 1967 when she entered the Boston Marathon using an alias to hide her gender, since men back then wrongly believed women were incapable of running more than 2 miles. When it was discovered she was a woman, the men in the race tried to physically remove her. We think it's great that Obé is highlighting this important moment in women's fitness history on their website, but their choice to use an AI-generated, arguably sexualized image of Switzer in a pink tracksuit with perfect hair and Hollywood makeup feels like a missed opportunity to showcase the power of this historical moment - especially when the real photographs are in the public domain.

Obé offers an expansive workout library organized into four main categories

Obé's library includes more than 10,000 on demand videos. You'll find them in categories such as:

• Cardio: Including HIIT, Dance HIIT, Dance Cardio, Boxing, Bounce, Jump, Ride, Step, Endurance, Run, and Walk classes to get your heart pumping
• Strength: Featuring Sculpt, Pilates, Strength, Power, and Barre workouts to build muscle and tone your body
• Yoga: Offering Vinyasa Yoga, Yoga Sculpt, Restorative Yoga, Breathwork, and Meditation for flexibility and mindfulness
• Activate/Recover: Providing Warmup, Cool-down, Stretch, and Foam Roll sessions to prepare for workouts and help your body recover

Live streaming went the way of the dodo

You can easily find the perfect workout by filtering based on music, fitness level, class length, body focus, impact level, instructors, equipment needed, release year, and fitness goals. While you can see descriptions and equipment requirements before signing up, you'll need to create an account to actually preview any workout videos. Also, Obé no longer offers live streaming classes, which came as a blow to much of their user-base (and the trainers they laid off), especially those who used it to stay connected and active during COVID lockdowns.

No free previews of video content

Before you can access Obé's fitness content, you'll need to complete a quick questionnaire about your fitness goals, experience level, preferred class types, and specific interests like running or dancing. The quiz also digs into your habit-forming style (are you self-motivated or do you need regular check-ins?) and other wellness interests such as meditation or cycle tracking - but stay tuned on that. Once you finish, Obé provides a personalized training plan and fitness "personality type" that determines which workouts appear in your feed.

Monthly plan costs more than rival fitness platforms

After completing the quiz, you'll finally see pricing options: $14.17/month with an annual commitment or $24.99 for month-to-month billing (which is rather expensive compared to competitors, though it has decreased slightly since they discontinued live classes).

Obé's tech experience is frustrating and buggy

You can access Obé workouts through their website, iOS app, or Android app. They claim compatibility with Chromecast and Apple TV for big-screen viewing (which definitely creates a better workout experience), but many users report serious casting problems. If you're planning to travel offline, the iOS app lets you download up to 30 workouts - a feature apparently not available on their neglected Android platform. Many users believe Obé has effectively abandoned Android development despite continuing to market the platform to all smartphone users - it's reported to be buggy, to require frequent reinstallation, and the music playing often doesn't match what's advertised for a given workout.

iOS users face declining service quality, too

Even the iOS experience has deteriorated significantly. Long-time subscribers note that Obé has reduced new content uploads to mostly short 10-minute workouts, closed their community Facebook group, and limited instructor interaction.

Misogynistic data practices

One of our biggest concerns with Obé is their menstrual cycle tracking feature. When an app markets itself so strongly as anti-misogynistic and supportive of women's health, it should live up to high standards in these areas. When we looked at Obé's privacy policy, however, we discovered that they collect and share sensitive data like menstrual cycle information with third parties -including law enforcement. The privacy policy explicitly states they can use such health information for "complying with legal obligations, law enforcement, and legal processes." This is particularly concerning in the post-Roe v. Wade era in the United States, where period tracking data could potentially be used in miscarriage- and abortion-related investigations.

Obé's values and practices are fundamentally at odds

Given Obé's problematic approach to user data, declining service quality, and technical issues across platforms, we cannot recommend this service - especially to women in states affected by draconian reproductive health laws. (It's hard to imagine a more profound betrayal of feminist principles than covertly collecting women's intimate health data and then reserving the right to hand it over to authorities investigating reproductive choices.) The disconnect between this fitness brand's feminist marketing and their actual business practices is too significant to ignore. Women looking to get fit would be better served by basically any other fitness platform in our review.