Sunday, March 10, 2013

Fitness / Workout Apps - Do they work?

How many times have you seen a new Fitness or Workout app for your Iphone or Android device and wondered if they work?  As someone who's fitness level has gone up and down, I have.  I am not looking for an easy way to get fit.  These apps are not designed, nor claim to be quick fixes.  Fitness does take time and dedication.  There are so many out apps how do you determine which ones would?  Well, good news.  I am going to use my self as a guinea pig so you don't have to.  I know what you are thinking, no thanks are needed.  Well, maybe you could follow this blog and like my Facebook page.

Now how will I test and prove or disprove these apps?  First, I am going to choose 4 fitness apps along with some monitoring apps.  My chosen device is an Iphone 5.  These apps are:

0 to 100 Push Ups by ClearSky Apps
Squats Pro by Runtastic
C25K Free by ZenLabs LLC
200+ Situps by Weedo Technology co.

I will also use:

Instant Heart Rate by Azumio

I will chart my progress at least weekly, maybe more with a photo, weight, heart rate and energy levels.  I will do this for 6 weeks.  Now I am not expecting to become buff.  I am expecting some weight loss and hopefully all around fitness improvement.  The purpose of this is to determine if using these apps, am I going to be able to get better fit on my own schedule (following the apps), in the comfort of my own home (besides the C25K app).

Disclaimer:  As you will see from the photos I will post, I am not a fitness person.  I work in Information Technology.  I have become very non fit and I hope you are not offended by my photos.