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Fitness With Finesse: 4 Fitness Apps You Need To Download

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UFL chapter.

Often, I find myself working out and wishing I had some extra motivation. Don’t get me wrong, working out with a friend is a definite motivation booster, but sometimes it seems like something is missing. But what’s the one thing every millennial has on her phone? Apps. In a generation obsessed with instant access, of course there would be apps that help make working out less painful. Below I’ve listed four apps that have helped me stay on my grind and that have me excited for summer workouts.

1. Daily Workout
I’ve been using this app for quite some time now and I absolutely can’t imagine deleting it off my phone. It acts as your own personal trainer if you’re a newbie in the workout world or if you’re just looking for a routine. The app divides itself into targeted workouts including abs, arms, butt, cardio, legs and full body. You can do each targeted workout for five, eight or 10 minutes. The best part about this workout is that it includes an on-screen timer and written instructions and also a video so you’re not completely lost.

2. Spotify Running
Some might not call this a fitness app and others might not even know Spotify has this feature, but it’s a pretty cool way to make running more enjoyable. Spotify Running detects your tempo while you run and plays songs to match your exact pace. There’s nothing like hearing some Beyoncé when you reach your all-time running high.

3. Virtual Active
Ever get bored running on the treadmill? Ever wish you were running through Northern Italy? Well, Virtual Active will take you there. Virtual Active makes your cardio routine much more pleasant by creating it into an outdoor adventure. With over 16 locations ranging from downtown Chicago to the Swiss Alps, you’re guaranteed to get lost in these beautiful locations. All you have to do is place your iPhone or iPad in front of you while you’re of the treadmill, bike or elliptical.

4. Charity Miles
Fitness and service all in one? Count me in. This is probably my favorite app right now, not just because my service sorority is using it, but because it motivates me to see how much of a difference I can make. The app tracks your movements, and every mile you run is worth 25 cents and every mile you bike is worth 10 cents. This money earned goes directly to the charity of your choice, thanks to corporate sponsors. More than 30 charities are available to choose from. Habitat for Humanity, Stand up to Cancer, Wounded Warrior Project and Alzheimer’s Association are just a few charities listed. Literally every mile counts.

There you have it, collegiettes. You can get all these apps for free, but note that there are in-app purchases for Virtual Active. Also, if you don’t like commercials, you might want to upgrade to Spotify Premium. (Fun Fact: You get a 50 percent discount if you’re a student. You’re welcome.) Hopefully these apps help you stay/get on your grind while having some fun.

Photo credit: idownloadblog.com

Natalie Cardenas is a fourth year Political Science and Spanish major at the University of Florida. She is from Miami, so Spanglish is basically her first language. She enjoys watching Friends, obsessing over stationery, and lives in black leggings. This past summer she interned with Latina Magazine in NYC, and fell in love with the city life. She plans on booking a one way ticket to the Big Apple after graduation.