Written by Will Duru, BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science, Level 3 Personal Traine
In the crowded world of fitness apps, finding the one that truly aligns with your goals and helps you make consistent progress can feel like a workout in itself. You’ve probably tried a few – Strong, Fitbod, Hevy, Jefit – all promising to be the best. But what if there was an app designed not just to track your lifts, but to genuinely understand your unique needs and guide you towards sustainable, long-term success? An app that feels less like a generic tool and more like a personal coach?
Look no further. As a Sport and Exercise Science professional and a personal trainer with a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless apps come and go. And I can confidently say that 12Reps stands out as the definitive choice for anyone serious about their strength training journey in 2025. This isn’t just another gym log; it’s a comprehensive system built to help you train smarter, prevent injury, and achieve lasting results. While other apps offer various features, 12Reps brings a unique blend of personalised guidance, a focus on longevity, and an incredibly intuitive experience that sets it apart.
In this article, we’ll cut through the noise and show you exactly why 12Reps isn’t just one of the best weightlifting apps – it’s the one you should be downloading today. We’ll highlight its key advantages over its competitors and reveal how its innovative approach will transform your training. Get ready to discover your new favourite fitness partner.
To make your decision easier, we start with a quick comparison table of key facts, then dive into detailed reviews of each app.
Quick Comparison of Top Weightlifting Apps
App | Free Version | Premium Price | Notable Features | Best For |
Just12Reps | Limited trial (AI demo) | £7.99/month or £59.99/year | AI-customised plans; longevity-focused training; simple logging | All levels (especially those seeking personalised, long-term training) |
Fitbod | 7-day trial only | $12.99/month or $79.99/year | Adaptive workouts via AI; large exercise library; muscle recovery tracking | Beginners and intermediates wanting guided gym routines |
JEFIT | Yes (with ads) | $12.99/month or $69.99/year | 1,400+ exercise database; community-shared routines; detailed progress charts | Intermediate lifters: planners who want extensive workout libraries |
Strong | Yes (full tracker) | $4.99/month or $29.99/year | Clean, intuitive logging; custom routine templates; Apple Watch sync | Experienced lifters who just need a gym log app |
Hevy | Yes (no ads) | $2.99/month or $23.99/year | Modern interface; social feed & friend challenges; PR tracking graphs | Budget-conscious users & friends who want the best free weightlifting app option |
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1. just12Reps – Best for Personalised strength training, Longevity-Focused Training
Overview: 12Reps is a cutting-edge weightlifting app designed with a unique focus on training for longevity. It uses advanced filtering to create personalised workout plans tailored to your individual goals, fitness level, and even the equipment you have available. Unlike one-size-fits-all programs, 12Reps adapts to you, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter, so that you can train smarter and stay strong for the long haul. The app emphasises sustainable progress and injury prevention, aligning your workouts with long-term health (not just short-term PRs).
Features: 12Reps stands out for its intelligent filtering personalisation. When you use the app, you can select a body part or type of workout and instantly generate a custom routine tailored to your needs. It considers your available equipment and the amount of time you need to train. This “filtering-powered” rules ensures that whether you’re at a fully equipped gym or just have a pair of dumbbells at home, you’ll get an effective session.
The app also includes an extensive exercise library and expert insights from sports scientists and trainers to guide your form and technique. Beyond the workouts, you can track every set, rep, and weight with intuitive logging tools, making it easy to monitor your progress over time. Progress tracking is front and centre in the app’s design, so you can see improvements and stay motivated. Community features and expert articles (on training, nutrition, recovery) round out the experience, giving users a supportive environment and evidence-based tips as they train.
Pricing: Just12Reps is a premium app with flexible subscription options. Users can choose a monthly plan at £9.99 or save with an annual plan for £59.99. (These prices equate to roughly $12–$13 per month, or about $90 annually, depending on currency exchange.) Although there may not be a completely free tier, new users can often explore the app’s basic functionality or a trial workout before committing. Given the app’s emphasis on personalisation and regularly updated content, the subscription supports continuous improvements. Importantly, just12reps is ad-free – your membership gives you an uninterrupted experience focused on training. Tip: The annual plan offers a significant discount for those ready to commit long-term (ideal, since consistency is key to longevity in fitness).
User Experience: Simplicity and ease of use are core to just12reps’ design. The interface is clean and straightforward, so you won’t get lost in menus when you’re trying to start your workout. Setting up a workout is as easy as inputting your goal or muscle group and letting the AI do the heavy lifting (figuratively). During workouts, the app provides clear exercise instructions (with images or videos) and logs your performance seamlessly.
Users report that it feels like having a knowledgeable personal trainer in your pocket, without the confusing clutter some apps have. Because the workouts are personalised, beginners receive step-by-step guidance, while experienced lifters get challenging routines adjusted to their level, all without needing to adjust settings constantly. This makes the user experience very beginner-friendly yet satisfying for veterans. The app also highlights your progress milestones, which adds a layer of gamification and keeps you motivated session to session.
Target Audience: Just12Reps is ideal for lifters of all levels who want an innovative, guided approach to strength training. It’s especially great for people who value personalisation – for example, busy professionals who need to maximise a 30-minute workout at home or gym, or older athletes focusing on longevity and safe progress. If you appreciate a balance of smart filtering -driven guidance and simplicity, this app is a top choice. Unlike some hardcore lifting apps, Just12Reps isn’t just about chasing numbers – it’s about building a strong foundation for life.
So, if you’re someone who wants to stay fit and injury-free for years to come (and maybe aren’t interested in the more extreme powerlifting style programs), 12 Repeats will cater to you. At the same time, even advanced lifters can use it to break plateaus by letting the AI introduce new exercises or training variables they might not have considered. Overall, it’s perfect for users seeking a personal coach-like experience with an emphasis on health span and consistency. Download 12REPS APP NOW
Pros:
- Highly Personalised Plans: Utilises AI to tailor workouts to your specific goals, equipment, and even muscle group focus. Every workout is custom-built, ensuring training remains both effective and engaging.
- Longevity and Health Focus: Emphasises proper form, balanced routines, and sustainable progress. Great for avoiding burnout or injury while still making gains.
- Easy Progress Tracking: Intuitive logging for sets/reps/weight. You can effortlessly record workouts and monitor improvements over weeks and months.
- Expert Guidance Built-In: Includes tips and routines designed by sports scientists and trainers, so even without a human trainer, you get credible advice.
- Beginner-Friendly (but Scales Up): Welcoming to newcomers with step-by-step guidance, yet adaptive enough to challenge experienced lifters by increasing intensity as you improve.
Cons:
- 7-day free trial: Aside from possibly an initial trial or demo workout, you’ll need a subscription to use the app’s full capabilities. There’s no completely free version (unlike some competitors) – though the quality of content justifies the cost for many.
- New to the Market: As a relatively new app, just12reps doesn’t have the same long-standing track record or large user community as some older apps. (That said, it’s growing quickly, and new features are being added regularly.)
- AI Limitations: While the AI is advanced, some highly specialised lifters might miss the fine-tuning that comes with a human coach. Very nuanced preferences (e.g. training for an ultra-specific goal or sport) might require manual adjustments, though for most users the built-in smarts are more than sufficient.
Bottom Line: Just12Reps delivers a powerful combination of personal coaching and simplicity in a weightlifting app. It’s like getting a tailored program from a trainer, but at a fraction of the cost and available 24/7. If your goal is to follow a smart strength training plan that adapts to you, and you care about long-term fitness and health, just12reps is a superior choice to consider. It stands out among the best by carving out a niche focused on personalisation and longevity, making it a standout option for those who want their workout tracker app to do more than just log sets.
2. Fitbod – Best for Guided, Adaptive Workout Routines
Overview: Fitbod is one of the most popular gym workout apps, recognised for its AI-driven workout generation capabilities. In essence, Fitbod acts as a virtual trainer that creates custom weightlifting routines tailored to your past workouts, fitness level, and available equipment. You tell Fitbod your goals (like building muscle, strength, or endurance) and it will automatically suggest exercises, sets, and reps each session. It’s especially handy for those who walk into the gym wondering, “What should I do today?” – Fitbod removes that guesswork. Over 15 million workouts have been logged on Fitbod , and it has a strong reputation among casual and intermediate lifters for its ease of use.
Features: Fitbod’s standout feature is its adaptive training algorithm. The app tracks every exercise you log and uses that data to adjust future workouts. For example, if you trained chest and triceps yesterday, Fitbod will likely focus on other muscle groups today (and even display a recovery gauge for each muscle). This way, it builds in proper rest and muscle group rotation. Fitbod also estimates your strength in each exercise and will incrementally increase the weight or reps as you improve, embodying the principle of progressive overload.
There’s a huge exercise library with animations, so you can learn new movements directly in the app. Fitbod even has a recovery and muscle fatigue tracker, visually indicating which muscles are “fresh” and which are still recovering, helping you optimise training frequency. You can also set preferences, such as whether you want to focus on a particular muscle or if you have limited equipment, and the app will adjust the routine accordingly. Overall, Fitbod’s feature set is designed to provide personalised workout programming without requiring you to design it yourself.
Pricing: Fitbod operates on a subscription model and does not offer a completely free version. New users can start with a 7-day free trial to experience the app’s full capabilities. After that, a subscription is required, at approximately $12.99 per month. Alternatively, you can opt for the annual plan, which costs approximately $79.99 per year, resulting in significant long-term savings.
(Occasionally, Fitbod’s pricing may vary slightly or have promotions – some sources note $95.99/year on their website, but $79.99/year is commonly cited . It’s wise to check current rates or any discount codes.) There’s also a lifetime purchase option mentioned by some users, though it’s pricey (around $300+). Importantly, Fitbod has no ads and once subscribed, you unlock all features. The cost might feel high for an app, but keep in mind it’s far cheaper than a personal trainer, and many find value in the continually adapting plans.
User Experience: The Fitbod app is polished and user-friendly. Upon setup, it asks for your fitness level, the equipment you have, and your goals. The home screen then typically shows your next recommended workout. One of the best aspects of Fitbod’s UX is how efficient it makes workout planning – literally with a tap you get a full routine. During the workout, the interface clearly lists each exercise, the target sets/reps, and suggested weights.
You can easily adjust any exercise (swap it or change the weight if it guessed wrong) and the app will remember that for next time. Logging each set is straightforward: you enter reps and weight lifted, and check off sets as you complete them. Fitbod will also auto-start rest timers if you want, making it seamless to move through your session. The visual design is clean, with muscle recovery charts and progress graphs available but not in your face unless you seek them out.
Overall, the experience is like having a knowledgeable guide: you open the app and follow along, which is great for users who don’t want to manually fiddle with creating routines. The flipside of this simplicity is that Fitbod doesn’t explicitly show long-term periodized plans – it adapts day by day. Most users enjoy the flexibility, though very advanced lifters who prefer strict program structures might miss that.
Fitbod’s algorithm is smart, but not perfect: it initially guesses weights for you, which can sometimes be off (e.g., too light or too heavy for your true capacity) . Beginners usually find these estimates fine (or even helpful), while experienced lifters might need to override some suggestions at first. Fortunately, the more you use it, the more accurate Fitbod gets in tailoring to your strength levels.
Fitbod is excellent for beginner to intermediate lifters
And even advanced folks who want to offload the burden of workout programming. It’s essentially best for users who want guidance and variety in their routines. If you find yourself bored doing the same workouts, Fitbod will introduce new exercises and rep schemes to keep things fresh. It’s also great for someone who has a decent grasp of exercise form but lacks structured programming – Fitbod gives structure without requiring you to design it. Busy individuals who don’t have time to plan workouts in detail each week also love Fitbod: you can just open the app at the gym and trust that day’s plan.
Athletes with specific goals (like powerlifting or bodybuilding competition prep) might find Fitbod less targeted than specialised programs, but for general strength, muscle gain, or fitness it works very well. One thing to note: if you’re very advanced and know exactly how you like to train, Fitbod’s automatic approach might feel restrictive; however, you can customise or ignore suggestions as needed. In summary, Fitbod’s target audience is anyone looking for a personalised workout tracker app that essentially acts as a coach, ideal for those who want to be told what to do each gym session based on smart analytics.
Pros:
- Automated Workout Programming: Takes the guesswork out – creates personalised workouts based on your goals, equipment, and past performance. This is like having a personal trainer set up your routine every day.
- Adaptive “Smart” Training: The more you use it, the more it adapts. It adjusts future exercises, weight, and reps according to your progress and recovery, following the principles of progressive overload to keep you improving.
- Huge Exercise Library: Includes a wide range of exercises with animations or videos. You can discover new movements and target muscles from different angles – great for keeping workouts interesting.
- Easy Logging & Tracking: Smooth interface for logging sets and tracking your stats. It integrates with Apple Health and Google Fit to track workouts, allowing you to review past workouts, personal records, and weekly volume in-app.
- Equipment Flexibility: Whether you’re in a full gym or a home gym (or even just bodyweight), Fitbod will tailor routines that make use of what you have . You can update equipment settings anytime (e.g., add that you got a bench at home) and it adjusts accordingly.
Cons:
- No Ongoing Free Version: After the 7-day trial, you must pay to continue . This can be a barrier if you’re looking for a free long-term solution – Fitbod’s value is in the subscription.
- Weight Suggestions Can Be Off: The app initially guesses how much you should lift. As noted by some experienced users, these estimates can be “wildly off” for certain exercises – meaning you might need to manually adjust until it learns your true strength levels. This is mostly a concern for seasoned lifters; beginners are less affected.
- Lacks Periodisation Transparency: Fitbod optimises workouts to workouts, but it doesn’t explicitly show you a multi-week program roadmap. Some fitness enthusiasts who like to see a clear progression plan (e.g. 12-week program) may miss that structure, as Fitbod’s approach is more reactive and day-by-day.
- Can Become Repetitive or Random: Occasionally, Fitbod may suggest unusual combinations or excessive variety. While it usually balances muscle groups well, some users report it might neglect a favourite lift or, conversely, suggest an exercise you dislike too often (you can always exclude specific exercises in settings as a workaround).
- Price for Long-Term Use: Although cheaper than a personal trainer, the subscription cost (~$79–$95/year) is still a commitment. If you stop subscribing, you lose access to the AI recommendations. Over multiple years, that cost adds up, which is something to consider if you’re on a tight budget.
Bottom Line: Fitbod is like having a smart trainer in your pocket that plans your workouts and keeps you progressing. It’s excellent for those who want a guided, adaptive fitness experience without hiring a coach. If you are someone who just wants to hit the gym and not overthink the plan, yet still follow sound training principles, Fitbod is a top contender. Be prepared to invest in the subscription and occasionally fine-tune the algorithm’s suggestions to match your needs better. Overall, it’s a highly convenient workout tracker app that excels at personalisation and is widely regarded as one of the best in 2025 for efficiently taking your strength training to the next level.
3. JEFIT – Best for Workout Planning and Community Features
Overview: JEFIT has been a stalwart in the workout tracking scene for over a decade. It’s often cited as one of the best gym log apps thanks to its rich features and large user base. JEFIT is essentially a combination of a workout planner, tracker, and social fitness community.
With JEFIT, you can create detailed weightlifting routines (or download routines others made), log your workouts with precision, and analyse your progress with charts and stats. One of JEFIT’s claims to fame is its enormous exercise database – over 1,400 exercises with instructions and animations, making it unlikely you’ll ever run out of new movements to try. It also earned praise for offering a very generous free version compared to many competitors. JEFIT isn’t heavy on flashy AI or ultra-polished UI; instead, it focuses on functionality and depth. For many serious lifters or data geeks, JEFIT provides a satisfying level of control and information.
Features: The feature set of JEFIT is extensive. At its core, you have a robust workout logging tool, allowing you to log sets, reps, weight, and even details such as rest time or notes for each exercise. You can time your rest periods with an integrated timer. JEFIT also tracks body measurements, personal records, and progress photos, serving as a comprehensive fitness journal. The workout planner is another highlight – you can browse through hundreds of professionally designed routines (for example, strength programs, bodybuilding splits, and sport-specific routines) and import them, or craft your own routine from scratch. The app supports scheduling workouts on a calendar, so you can plan which days to do which routine.
A unique aspect of JEFIT is its community and cloud integration: your data syncs to your JEFIT online account, allowing you to share routines or compare stats with friends. There are leaderboards and a feed where people post their workout achievements, injecting a bit of social motivation. The exercise library in JEFIT is excellent – each exercise entry includes diagrams or animations that show proper form, the muscles worked, and helpful tips. They cover everything from barbell and dumbbell lifts to bodyweight moves and machine exercises, which is great for learning new exercises. Additionally, JEFIT features analysis tools; for example, it displays charts of your one-rep max estimates over time, total volume lifted per week, or even breakdowns of how many workouts you’ve done for each muscle group. In summary, JEFIT’s features are all about giving you tools to plan, track, and review every aspect of your strength training.
Pricing
One reason JEFIT stays popular is its strong free tier. You can log workouts, access the full exercise library, and download routines without paying—core features most people need.
But the free version includes ads and limits some advanced tools like detailed analytics and premium workout plans.
To unlock everything and remove ads, you can upgrade to JEFIT Elite. It costs around $12.99/month or $69.99/year.
There are often discounts or anniversary sales (for instance, JEFIT has run promotions at around $35 per year during special events). The Elite version gives you advanced charts, progress reports, priority support, and access to all the “advanced” training plans developed by experts. One can also find a lifetime option on some platforms (in the past, it was around $100 for lifetime use, which many loyal users found worthwhile). To recap, JEFIT’s free version is usable if you don’t mind ads and some feature limits, making it one of the best free offerings for a gym log app. However, serious users often opt for Elite to eliminate ads and fully utilise the power of tracking analytics.
User Experience: JEFIT is powerful, but some users might find its interface a bit outdated compared to newer apps. The design is more functional than sleek. Navigating JEFIT involves switching between tabs for “Workout” (logging your current workout), “Routine” (to plan or select a routine), “Progress” (for stats and charts), and “Community” (for social features and forums). Once you get used to it, it’s straightforward, but first-time users might feel there’s a small learning curve simply because there is so much you can do. Logging a workout in real-time is easy: you select the exercise, input the reps and weight, and hit save for each set. The app will show your previous numbers for reference (helpful for knowing what to beat).
One notable experience perk: JEFIT works offline – you don’t need an internet connection to log workouts, and it will sync later, which is great if your gym has poor reception. The user experience when creating routines is also quite good: you can add exercises to specific days, set target reps or weights in advance if you prefer, and essentially script your program. Some users love this level of control, while others may find it tedious compared to auto-generated plans in apps like Fitbod.
The community UX features a news feed and a forum-like environment; although not everyone uses it, it’s available for those seeking advice or camaraderie (for example, there are groups for specific workout challenges). In terms of performance, JEFIT runs reliably, although occasionally users mention that the app can feel a bit slow or clunky on older devices due to its large database. The presence of ads in the free version can also detract from the user experience (UX), as they usually appear between screens or at the bottom of the screen. Elite removes those, making it more pleasant. Overall, the experience is akin to using a very detailed training logbook – extremely informative if you leverage it, but it requires a bit more effort and initiative from the user than apps that spoon-feed workouts.
Target Audience: JEFIT is best suited for enthusiasts who appreciate data and planning. If you love the idea of meticulously tracking every workout and perhaps even enjoy analysing your lifting stats, JEFIT will scratch that itch. It’s popular among intermediate lifters, bodybuilders, and generally anyone serious enough to plan their routines (as opposed to just doing random workouts). Budget-conscious users also find JEFIT appealing because of the free tier – a student or someone who doesn’t want to pay can still get a lot of utility from JEFIT (with the trade-off of ads).
Additionally, individuals who value community support may prefer JEFIT, as it’s one of the few platforms that features a built-in social network of lifters. That said, pure beginners can use JEFIT by selecting the beginner routines available in the app (there are many, such as a 5×5 beginner strength routine, etc.).
However, sometimes complete newbies may feel overwhelmed by the options; they might not know which of the 1,000+ exercises to include or which routine to choose. For them, a simpler guided app could be better. On the other hand, experienced lifters who already know how to structure a program often choose JEFIT to eliminate pen-and-paper logs, while still maintaining complete control.
It’s also worth noting that JEFIT is platform agnostic: it’s available on iOS, Android, and you can even access your data on a web browser. This makes it flexible for those who prefer to review their workouts on a computer at times. In summary, target users for JEFIT are dedicated gym-goers who want a comprehensive tool to plan, track, and analyse their strength training, and who may want to tap into a community of like-minded lifters.
Pros:
- Extensive Free Functionality: JEFIT’s free version is highly usable – you get unlimited workout tracking and access to most features without paying. This makes it one of the best free gym log apps for those starting out or on a tight budget.
- Huge Exercise & Routine Library: Over 1,400 exercises with demos are available, along with numerous pre-made routines. Whether you want a 3-day split, a 5×5 strength program, or a sport-specific plan, chances are JEFIT has something or you can create it.
- Detailed Progress Tracking: The app logs everything and turns your data into useful charts – track your weight lifted over time, body measurements, PRs, and more. It’s excellent for analytically-minded lifters who want to see progress quantified.
- Community and Support: JEFIT has a built-in community where you can share workouts and tips. This social aspect can keep you motivated and accountable (friendly competition on leaderboards, etc.). You can also sync your data across devices and never lose your workout history thanks to cloud backup.
- Flexible and Customizable: You have full control over your training plan. You’re not locked into a specific style – you can do powerlifting, bodybuilding, circuit training, anything – JEFIT will track it. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of training preferences.
Cons:
- Interface Feels Dated: Compared to modern apps, JEFIT’s UI isn’t the sleekest. It can be a bit cluttered and overwhelming, especially for newcomers. Navigating all the features might take some time to learn.
- Ads in Free Version: While the free tier is generous, it does come with ads which can interrupt the experience. For example, you might see pop-ups or banners, which some users find annoying during a workout. Upgrading to Elite removes these.
- Lacks Guided Coaching: JEFIT provides tools but you often have to decide what to do with them. There’s no AI picking your next exercise or a virtual coach prompting you. If you’re indecisive or inexperienced in programming, JEFIT won’t provide as much guidance as apps like Fitbod or just12reps would.
- Minor Sync/Tech Issues: Although generally reliable, a few users have reported occasional sync delays or instances where saved workouts fail to upload immediately. Additionally, if you forget to click “finish” on a workout, it may not log properly (although you can edit it later). These are not common deal-breakers but worth noting.
- Not Many Cardio or Class Options: JEFIT is very strength focused. It’s great for weightlifting, but if your routine includes lots of cardio or classes, JEFIT’s tracking for those is minimal. It’s really built for weight training first and foremost .
Bottom Line: JEFIT is a powerhouse for those who want an all-in-one workout tracker and planner. It shines in the depth of features and the community aspect. If you’re serious about your lifting and enjoy tweaking your routine or tracking your progress, JEFIT will likely become your best gym buddy. It’s unbiased and flexible – it doesn’t push a single training philosophy; it simply provides the platform to execute whatever program you choose. For many in 2025, JEFIT remains a top pick due to its balance of free accessibility and rich capabilities, especially now that variety and value are key considerations for finding the best weightlifting app to meet one’s needs.
4. Strong – Best for Simple, No-Nonsense Workout Logging
Overview: Strong (often referred to as the “Strong Workout Tracker”) is a highly popular app among weightlifters seeking a streamlined way to track their gym workouts. If JEFIT is like a fully loaded Swiss Army knife, Strong is like a razor-sharp single blade – extremely good at the core task of logging strength workouts, without a lot of extra fluff. Strong has been around since the mid-2010s and gained a loyal following for its clean design and reliability.
It’s frequently recommended on fitness forums for those who just need a pure logging app. In fact, BarBend named Strong the “best weightlifting app for experienced weightlifters” in their 2025 review, emphasising that it’s perfect for people who already have a routine and just want to track it diligently. With millions of downloads and a solid 4.9+ rating on app stores, Strong clearly resonates with the lifting community.
Features: Strong’s feature set is focused and effective. It features a well-curated exercise library (over 200 exercises with animations) and allows you to add your own custom exercises if something is missing. When you start a workout, you can pick from your saved routines or just add exercises on the fly. Logging is super quick: tap the exercise, and you’ll see a list of sets – pre-filled with the last weight and reps you did for that exercise, which is a huge time-saver.
You just adjust if needed and tick them off as you complete. Strong automatically calculates things like total volume lifted per exercise and even tracks personal records (it will highlight when you’ve hit a new PR for weight or reps) . There’s a rest timer that pops up after you log a set, which many users love because it prevents you from resting too long. You can also add notes to sets (e.g., “form felt good” or “last rep was grindy”) and mark sets as warm-up or drop sets.
Strong offers plenty of charts and history too – you can see your one-rep max progression for each lift, total workouts over time, body weight tracking, and more, although these features are mostly available in the Pro version. The cloud sync is free and automatic, so your data is backed up and accessible across multiple devices. Another plus: Strong support for Apple Watch (and Wear OS for Android) – you can actually leave your phone in the locker and log from your watch, which appeals to those who don’t want to hold their phone during workouts.
It also integrates with Apple Health/Google Fit to record workout summaries. One unique feature is the ability to store multiple routines: for example, you can save a “Push Day” routine and a “Leg Day” routine and quickly start them. The free version limits how many custom routines you can save (to 3), but that’s usually enough for basic needs. In summary, Strong’s features are designed to make workout logging fast, accurate, and even enjoyable for the user.
Pricing: Strong offers a free version that is quite functional. With Strong Free, you can create unlimited workouts, log unlimited exercises, and save up to 3 custom routines. You also get basic charts of past workouts. For many casual lifters, this might suffice.
However, to unlock the full power, they have Strong Pro. The Pro subscription costs about $4.99 per month or $29.99 per year, notably cheaper than most other premium fitness apps. There’s also an option for a one-time lifetime purchase (~$99), which some long-time users opt for to have it forever. Strong Pro removes the 3-routine limit (so you can save more workout templates), and it enables advanced features like comparison charts, plate calculation (tells you how to load the bar for a target weight), and warm-up set suggestions.
It may also unlock future extras as the app is updated. Importantly, no ads at all in either version – even the free version of Strong is ad-free (they monetise only via Pro, which is a user-friendly approach). The cost of Pro is quite reasonable given it’s the price of a cup of coffee per month (and half the cost of something like Fitbod’s monthly rate).
Since the app’s focus is narrow, you’re essentially paying for a premium tracking experience rather than content or coaching. Many users try free and then upgrade, mostly to support the developers and get unlimited routines.
User Experience: This is where Strong truly excels. The UI is incredibly clean and intuitive. From the moment you open it, it’s obvious how to start a workout and log exercises. The design uses simple colour-coding and large, easy-to-tap buttons. Strong’s logging screen is often praised: it lists your exercises and sets clearly, and you can jump between exercises (if you superset, for example) with ease.
The app rarely crashes; it’s known for its stability. Additionally, data entry is optimised – for instance, when you type a weight, standard plate increments are suggested (such as 135, 225, etc., for those who lift in pounds). If you’re repeating a workout, you can copy the previous workout’s setup, which makes things speedy.
The rest timer is built-in, and you can customise the length; it will notify you when time’s up even if you’re out of the app or checking a different exercise. Another aspect of UX is the lack of distraction – Strong isn’t trying to sell you programs or show you a social feed. When you’re in the gym, it feels like a dedicated tool just for you. Because of this, many experienced lifters say they trust Strong during serious training because it won’t interrupt them or waste their time.
The Apple Watch experience is also quite good: you can start a routine directly from your watch, tap to log sets, and view your previous stats – all without needing your phone. This hands-free approach appeals to people who scribbled workouts in a notebook – now they can do it digitally just as simply.
Strong also offers good support for different unit preferences (lbs, kg) and even body metric tracking (you can log body weight or body fat over time, although it’s not a primary feature). One minor UX gripe some have noted is that if you forget to end a workout, it may continue running a timer in the background; however, the app will usually detect inactivity and prompt you. Another issue is occasional sync problems if you switch devices mid-workout (a rare scenario). By and large, Strong’s user experience is fast, friendly, and focused, which garners it high praise.
Target Audience: Strong is tailor-made for experienced and self-guided lifters. If you already know what workouts you want to do and just need a trusty log, Strong is ideal. Powerlifters, bodybuilders, CrossFitters – athletes of all kinds use Strong to record their training. It doesn’t teach you how to lift or tell you what to do; it assumes you have that part handled (or you’re getting your program from elsewhere). So, it’s not aimed at someone who needs workout ideas or coaching.
That said, even beginners can use Strong if they have a simple program (like Starting Strength or a push/pull/legs routine from a trainer) – they can input it and track progress. Many beginners might appreciate the simplicity, but some might prefer an app that also provides guidance (Strong won’t, for example, tell a beginner if they should add weight next time – it will show what they did, and it’s up to them or their program to decide increases).
Another significant part of Strong’s audience is the no-frills crowd: people who are annoyed by excessive gamification or by apps trying to sell them things. Strong doesn’t push supplements, doesn’t have a social network, and doesn’t bombard you with notifications (apart from reminding you to work out if you enable that). So, if you’re looking for a distraction-free workout tracker, Strong is the perfect choice. Additionally, those who train with varying methods (such as alternating between powerlifting and Olympic lifts) may appreciate Strong because it allows for flexible logging of any training style without locking you into a specific template.
It’s also widely used by people who migrated from notebooks or spreadsheets – they find Strong replicates the free-form logging experience, but with digital convenience. Overall, target users are lifters who require reliability and efficiency in tracking and already possess the motivation and knowledge to drive their own training plan.
Pros:
- Sleek and Simple Interface: Strong’s design is very user-friendly and uncluttered. Even during a workout, logging a set takes seconds, and the app provides your previous lift stats at a glance for motivation. It’s perfect for maintaining focus during training.
- Great for Advanced Lifters: As noted by expert reviews, Strong is well-suited for serious lifters who simply need a tracker. It doesn’t hold your hand, but it gives you all the tools to record PRs, heavy sets, and complex routines. PR tracking and personal records are highlighted to keep you moving forward.
- Free Version is Robust (and Ad-Free): You can use Strong at no cost with very few limitations – and importantly, no annoying advertisements. This free functionality, plus the low-cost Pro upgrade, makes it one of the most value-friendly apps.
- Rest Timer & Apple Watch Support: The automatic rest timer and wearable integration make it convenient to use. You can log workouts from your wrist and keep your phone in your pocket or gym bag. This is a big plus for those who dislike handling their phone with chalky or sweaty hands.
- Reliable Data Sync and Backup: Your workout data is safely backed up to the cloud under your account. If you get a new phone or use a tablet, you can seamlessly continue. Strong also exports data (e.g., you can download a CSV of your workouts), which some data junkies appreciate.
Cons:
- No Guided Workouts or Programs: Strong doesn’t offer workouts or plans. It assumes you come with a plan. Beginners without any idea of what to do might find this limiting – they’d need to get a routine from elsewhere to use in Strong.
- Limited Exercise Library (Compared to Others): Approximately 200 exercises are built-in, covering most gym basics, but this is far fewer than JEFIT’s 1,400. You can add custom exercises, but if you’re doing something uncommon, you may need to input it manually (which is easy, but worth noting).
- Routine Limit on Free Version: The free app allows you to save only 3 custom routines. If you want to store all your different workouts or program cycles, you may need to delete and recreate routines or upgrade to Pro. Some find 3 to be enough (e.g., you might only need a Push, Pull, Legs template), but more advanced periodisation requires the upgrade.
- Minimal Community/Support Features: There’s no social component; some people find motivation in a community which Strong doesn’t provide. Also, while there is a FAQ and support, the app doesn’t have built-in tips for lifting – it’s assumed you know how to perform the exercises (though the animations help a bit with form).
- Primarily Phone/Watch Based: There is no official Strong web app for tracking on a desktop. So, if you prefer typing out workouts on a computer, you can’t with Strong (unlike JEFIT, which has a web interface). Everything is accessible through the mobile app interface.
Bottom Line: Strong is the go-to workout tracker app for those who want a hassle-free logging experience. It’s often said that “Strong just works,” and that sums it up – it works every time, for any routine, without trying to change how you train. If your priority is to record your lifts, analyse your progress, and never miss a PR, Strong is an outstanding choice. It complements well with external programs (you bring the plan, Strong logs it). In the 2025 weightlifting app landscape, Strong holds a top spot for lifters who value simplicity, speed, and staying in control of their training regimen.
5. Hevy – Best Free Weightlifting App with Social Features
Overview: Hevy is a relatively new app that has quickly established itself as the best free weightlifting app option for many users. Launched in late 2019/early 2020, Hevy set out to combine the clean, intuitive tracking of apps like Strong with a modern social twist. In a short time, it amassed over 7 million downloads, thanks in part to offering a ton of functionality without charging a dime (for the base features).
Hevy’s slogan positions it as the “#1 workout tracker & planner gym log app” – a bold claim, but it has earned accolades, even winning awards like the Product Hunt #1 Fitness Product. The app’s approach is to be community-driven; you not only log your own workouts but can also follow friends or other athletes, share routines, and cheer each other on. This makes Hevy somewhat like a hybrid of a workout tracker and a fitness social network, all while maintaining a smooth and simple core logging experience.
Features: At its core, Hevy offers all the essential logging capabilities, allowing you to create routines, log sets, reps, and weight, and track progress over time. The interface is visually appealing – dark theme, crisp charts – and very “Instagram-like” in some places (for example, you have a profile where others can see your shared workouts or personal records if you allow).
Key features include a routine planner (build your own workout templates or choose from community-shared ones), an intuitive logger (with an interface to input sets quickly, mark sets as warm-ups or drop sets, etc.), and comprehensive progress analytics. Hevy provides advanced exercise charts for each movement, showing progress over time, one-rep max estimates, total volume lifted, etc.. Personal records are automatically tracked and highlighted, which is motivating. Importantly, Hevy also supports custom exercises, allowing you to add anything not included in their library.
On the social side, Hevy will enable you to follow other users (friends or even top lifters who share their workouts publicly). You can view a feed of workouts where you can like or comment, essentially offering encouragement or discussing training – a feature many find helps keep them accountable. One can also save other people’s routines to try later. Another feature: challenges and leaderboards (periodically, there are community challenges, such as “most workouts in a month,” or similar, fostering friendly competition).
As for device support, Hevy has Apple Watch and WearOS integration, just like Strong, enabling phone-free logging from your smartwatch. They also introduced a web app (Hevy on desktop), which is useful for planning workouts on a larger screen or analysing data in-depth. Unique to Hevy, there’s a social accountability angle – you can make your profile private or public. If public, your followers see when you complete workouts, which can motivate you to stay on track. Lastly, Hevy boasts that it has no ads and no paywalls for core features, focusing on making the best free product possible and monetising through very affordable Pro upgrades for extra perks.
Pricing: Hevy’s base app is free with no ads, which is a huge selling point. You get nearly everything without paying. So one might wonder, what’s the catch? Well, Hevy also offers a Pro version with some advanced features for power users. The Pro pricing is highly affordable, at approximately $2.99 per month, $23.99 per year, or $74.99 for lifetime access.
These low prices undercut almost every other app’s premium tier. With Hevy Pro, you unlock things like advanced analytics (e.g., more detailed charts, historical comparisons), the ability to export your data, some additional customization (priority support, early access to new features, etc.), and perhaps unlimited cloud storage of certain data (though even free users have their workouts saved in the cloud). One specific Pro feature is personalised insights – for example, it might highlight that you’ve plateaued on a lift or suggest trying a new variation (this feature is evolving with user feedback).
Another Pro benefit is supporting the developers, which the Hevy community is big on, given the generous free offering. It’s worth noting that Hevy Pro for coaches (a separate platform called Hevy Coach) exists, but for individual users, the above pricing applies. In short, you can absolutely use Hevy long-term for free; upgrading to Pro is more about deeper analytics and giving back to an app that’s already affordable. This freemium model with a very low-cost Pro has endeared Hevy to many lifters.
User Experience: Hevy offers an excellent user experience, often described as a blend of Strong’s ease of use with a more modern vibe. When you log in, you land on your home feed, which may display your recent workouts and updates from friends. To start logging, click the big plus button to begin a workout – you can choose a routine or add exercises ad hoc. The logging interface is comparable to Strong’s in quickness: tap to add set, swipe to mark as done, long-press if you want to mark a set as a warm-up, etc. The app offers nice touches, such as displaying your previous performance for each exercise (so you know what you did last time).
One feature users love is a “Finish workout” summary that pops up when you complete a session, detailing total volume, exercises completed, any PRs achieved, and prompting you to share it (optionally) on your feed. It’s a moment of celebration and can earn you virtual fist-bumps from friends. The design is modern with emojis, customizable avatars, and a dark theme that’s easy on the eyes. Another UX highlight is the social integration – for those interested, it’s fun to scroll through the feed and see others’ workouts, drop a like or comment (“Nice PR on squats!”).
This can make the lifting experience less solitary, even if you train alone. However, Hevy doesn’t force social on you – if you set your profile to private, you can use it just like a personal log and ignore the feed entirely. Technically, Hevy is relatively stable and fast; syncing is immediate since there are no ads causing delays. The Apple Watch app for Hevy is also robust, mirroring much of the phone app’s functionality (some prefer Hevy’s watch app to others because of its simplicity in logging). On the web app side, while not as feature-rich as the mobile app yet, it’s handy for reviewing past workouts or typing out a long routine.
For any negatives in UX: since Hevy is newer, occasionally a feature might be missing (for example, it introduced the ability to track body weight only after initial launch – but they continuously update based on user requests). Also, if you have no friends on the app, the social feed might look empty or just show suggested popular users, which isn’t a big deal but the app really shines when you have a couple of buddies on it. All in all, Hevy’s user experience feels fresh, community-oriented, and straightforward for tracking.
Target Audience: Hevy is perfect for lifters who want a high-quality free solution and those who enjoy a bit of social motivation. If you’re someone who has been using Strong or JEFIT’s free version but are tired of ads or paywalls, Hevy will feel like a breath of fresh air. It caters to beginners and seasoned lifters alike. Beginners benefit because it’s free (no barrier to entry), and they can find simple routines in the app to follow (plus possibly get tips from the community).
The interface is welcoming, not intimidating, so newbies often stick with it. Intermediate and advanced lifters who have friends using the app will appreciate the accountability – for example, a powerlifting team could all follow each other on Hevy and track their progress, offering encouragement. The target user might also be one who values community, but not at the expense of functionality – Hevy manages to be social without compromising its serious logbook nature. Another target group is those who are budget-conscious. College students, for example, might not want to pay for Fitbod or Strong Pro – Hevy gives them 90% of what they need for free.
Additionally, people who may have tried an AI app like Fitbod but didn’t like being told what to do, and instead want to create their own program, might switch to Hevy for that flexibility, combined with some fun social aspects. Lastly, Hevy appeals to both iOS and Android users equally (some apps historically favored one platform; Hevy launched strongly on both). Given BarBend’s recognition of Hevy as the best free weightlifting app of 2025, the target audience is essentially anyone who wants a top-tier app experience without incurring a high cost.
The caveat would be that if you absolutely need a virtual coach or guidance, Hevy doesn’t provide built-in workout programming – you either input your own plan or obtain one from the community. Those who need handholding might lean towards Fitbod or just 12 reps. But for the self-directed lifter who enjoys community, Hevy is spot on.
Pros:
- Completely Free Core Features: You can use Hevy indefinitely without paying and still log unlimited workouts, create routines, and view progress. The app is ad-free, which is remarkable for a free app. This makes it arguably the best free weightlifting tracker available.
- Modern and Intuitive Design: The app boasts a sleek appearance and is easy to navigate. New users pick it up quickly. The logging process is smooth with helpful features like previous stats display and quick-add sets. The UI feels fresh and motivating, which can make you more eager to use it regularly.
- Social Motivation: Hevy’s community features let you follow friends or even meet new fitness buddies. You can like and comment on each other’s workouts, providing encouragement. This social layer keeps you accountable and can make training more enjoyable (like having a virtual gym crew).
- Rich Progress Tracking: Even for a free app, Hevy provides excellent charts and data. You can analyse your strength gains, see your personal records, and get insights on your training frequency and volume. It also tracks one-rep max estimates and automatically highlights PRs.
- Cross-Platform and Wearable Support: Hevy works on iOS, Android, and has a web version. Plus, it has strong Apple Watch/Wear OS integration, so you can leave your phone aside when logging in. Few apps offer such a breadth of platform support with seamless syncing.
Cons:
- No Built-in Workout Guidance: Hevy does not generate workouts for you or include formal training programs by default. While you can find routines shared by others or create your own, those looking for an app to tell them exactly what to do each day won’t get that here.
- Some Advanced Features Require Pro: Although the free tier is generous, features like very detailed analytics, data export, or unlimited saved routines might need the Pro upgrade (however, these are mostly non-essential or power-user features and the cost is low).
- Growing Pains of a New App: As a newcomer, Hevy is continually adding features to catch up with long-standing apps. For instance, it only recently added a few things like body measurement tracking or certain exercise types. It’s actively developed, but some niche features might still be missing or in refinement.
- Community Not Moderated for Program Quality: The routines and workouts shared in the app are user-generated. This means their quality can vary. A newbie might grab a routine from the community that isn’t optimal or safe. Users should use discretion (the upside is that there are rating systems for routines and you can see comments, etc.).
- Less Focused on Non-Lifting Activities: Hevy, like Strong, centers on weight training. It has limited support for cardio or classes (you can log a cardio session as a custom exercise, but there’s no specialised tracking for runs, for example). If your training mix is cardio-heavy, Hevy may not track those metrics as comprehensively as a dedicated running app.
Bottom Line: Hevy has rapidly become a favourite in the fitness community by delivering a high-quality workout tracker app for free. It’s an ideal choice for lifters who want to log their workouts, stay motivated with friends, and avoid subscription fees. The app’s combination of an easy logging experience and social engagement makes it stand out. While it doesn’t program your workouts for you, many find that the community aspect fills that gap – you’re essentially empowered to follow or create programs as you wish, with a cheer squad in your pocket. In the competitive field of 2025 weightlifting apps, Hevy’s approach of “free and social” has positioned it as a top contender, especially for those seeking the best gym log app without incurring additional costs.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right App for Your Needs
Conclusion
Weightlifting apps in 2025 cover a wide range—from simple trackers to adaptive coaching tools. The best choice depends on your goals, experience, and what motivates you to stay consistent.
- Beginners or general fitness enthusiasts might find Hevy or Strong ideal. These apps are easy to use, great for logging workouts, and won’t flood you with too many features. Strong is clean and quick; Hevy adds community features that can help with motivation.
- If you want personalised workouts without the hassle of planning, Fitbod offers an interactive, adaptive experience. It generates gym routines based on your equipment, goals, and training history. Great for users who want guidance but don’t want to build their own plan—just keep in mind the monthly fee and lack of a free tier.
- For users who want intelligent personalisation with long-term benefits, 12Reps app stands out. It utilises AI to tailor workouts based on your specific needs and goals, with a focus on sustainable training rather than shortcuts. It’s simple, adaptable, and designed for individuals who want to build strength without chasing trends. If you want an app that grows with you, especially as your lifestyle or priorities shift, 12Reps app could be the right fit.
- Intermediate to advanced lifters who already understand programming might prefer tools like JEFIT or Strong. These apps let you log and analyse every detail. JEFIT offers depth and an extensive routine library; Strong is fast, clean, and efficient. Many serious lifters use both—planning in one, logging in the other.
Whatever you choose, ask yourself:
Will I actually use this every week?
If the interface, tracking tools, or structure keep you consistent, that’s what matters.
Also weigh value over price. An innovative app like Just12Reps or Fitbod might save you hours of guesswork and boost your results. But if you’re self-driven, free options like Hevy can go a long way.
At the end of the day, these are just tools. You still have to show up, train hard, and stay consistent. Pick the app that fits your goals, habits, and style—and let it support your progress, not distract from it.
In this landscape of strength apps, 12Reps app stands out for users who want smart, simple, and sustainable training that evolves with them. Whether you’re lifting to perform, stay healthy, or just feel stronger, there’s an app out there to back you up.
Now go lift.
Sources:
- Garage Gym Reviews – Expert-Tested: The 9 Best Weightlifting Apps (2025)
- BarBend – Best Weightlifting Apps (2025)
- Just12Reps Official Site – Strength Training for Longevity (features & pricing)
- Fitbod Review (AIChief, 2025) – features, pricing, pros/cons
- JEFIT Review (Garage Gym Reviews) – pricing and highlights
- Strong App Review (Garage Gym Reviews) – pricing and pros/cons
- Hevy App Info (Official site & Dr. Muscle) – pricing and features
- BodyFit Info (BarBend & Bodybuilding.com) – content and pricing
- JuggernautAI Info (Toolinsider & search data) – pricing and features
