Apple Fitness Plus is a brand-new platform that provides a catalog of guided workout videos for $9.99 per month. The service relies on the Apple Watch to provide some unique features, and the Cupertino company hopes they will be enough to set it apart from other well-established fitness platforms.
But does this new offering do enough to truly stand out? Who will have access? And what kind of content can you expect? Read on and we’ll go through everything you need to know about Apple Fitness Plus.
What is Apple Fitness Plus?
What sets Apple’s new offering apart is the inclusion of personalized recommendations based on data provided by Apple services and a number of integrations with the Apple Watch.
That means that you do need an Apple Watch in order for it to work. Specifically, you will need an Apple Watch Series 3 or later. Sorry, Apple Watch 2 owners! And Android users.
You’ll also need an iPhone 6s or later updated to iOS 14.3 or an iPad Air 2 or later updated to iPadOS 14.3. Regardless of what device you have, you’ll also need Apple’s Fitness app installed.
Videos are suggested based on your previous workout history. If you tend to do a lot of HIIT (and you logged that with Apple Health), you will likely see HIIT workouts recommended first and foremost. Apple will also be suggesting workouts that represent a break from the norm.
Of course, Apple Fitness Plus also includes all the features you’re used to seeing in other premium fitness apps. You’ll be able to filter workouts by trainer, workout type, duration, etc. You’ll also get forewarning about any equipment that you need (and there should be plenty of videos for all options).
When will Apple Fitness Plus launch?
Apple Fitness Plus is available right now in the US. It’s also available in the UK, Australia, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand. The company will announce launch dates for more regions soon, including India. Apple Fitness Plus is also available as part of Apple One.
Apple Fitness Plus integration with the Apple Watch
As is often the case with Apple products, there is plenty of synchronicity here too. For example, the Apple Watch can be used as a remote to control the action on-screen.
Sessions will also be logged automatically by the Apple Watch, meaning you don’t need to spend time setting up the correct type of workout.
Apple Fitness Plus can be accessed via the App Store on iOS or through an Apple TV. If you go the Apple TV route, you’ll be able to access your account on any Apple TV, provided you are wearing your Apple Watch. That could be useful if you’re staying in a hotel, for example.
(I’m not sure how many hotels actually have Apple TVs. I’ve never seen one… Perhaps that’s an American thing? Or I’m just staying in the wrong hotels. Let me know in the comments!)
Your heart rate and the elapsed time will also be shown both on your watch and on the screen. The same goes for closing your exercise ring or getting other relevant notifications from your watch. It’s all about synergy, see!
Learn more about the Apple Watch
- Apple Watch Series 6 review | Check pricing on Amazon
- Apple Watch SE review | Check pricing on Amazon
Apple Fitness Plus vs other workout platforms
Workout services are nothing new. Users can alternatively turn to options like FIIT and IFIT. In fact, I actually made a series of workouts for the latter! We also made a guide to the best home fitness streaming services, so check that out if you’re looking for more inspiration. It’s also worth reminding readers that there are plenty of great, free workouts available on YouTube.
See also: The best health apps for Android
Many fitness services will sync with smartwatches, heart rate monitors, and even machines like treadmills and rowers. Nothing Apple is bringing to the table is really all that new. It’s just more of the convenience that comes from going “all-in” on Apple. If you’re already all-in on Apple products and services, that may be enough.
Nothing Apple is bringing to the table is really all that new.
Following a guided workout certainly has its merits for the right type of user. Not only can this provide inspiration for particular types of movement, it can also offer motivation and guidance. With that said, nothing beats getting direct training from a coach — they can help to spot you through techniques and adjust your training as you see results (or don’t).
Moreover, those that are very experienced or training for specific sports will typically fare better with more tailored, periodized programs. But if it’s a quick workout you’re looking for, Apple Fitness Plus will likely deliver.
Is it worth it?
The value of workout videos is predicated on the quality of the video in question. Just what the ratio of winners to duds is like on this new platform, remains to be seen!
The value of workout videos is predicated on the quality of the video in question.
With all that said, $9.99 seems a little steep to me. Seeing as there is a one month free trial, there is no harm in giving it a go.
The price is also competitive with other similar apps. How much mileage you get is likely to be very subjective. Ultimately, the value of this service will depend on how often Apple adds quality workouts and new features.
Other FAQs
Q: Will Apple Fitness Plus come to India?
A: Apple Fitness Plus will be coming to India, although Apple has yet to announce a launch date.
Q: Is Apple Fitness Plus free?
A: No. However, there is a one-month free trial.
Q: How much does Apple Fitness Plus cost?
A: Apple Fitness Plus costs $9.99 per month. It is also available as part of Apple One.
Q: Do I need any specific equipment?
A: Each workout has different requirements. There are plenty of workouts that require no equipment at all.
Q: Is Apple Fitness Plus available on Android?
A: Not at the time of writing.
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