Working out and staying fit isn’t easy, especially when you’re a beginner at 50. Fortunately, technology has made it easier than ever to access expert-guided workouts, allowing you to achieve your fitness goals using your smartphone or tablet.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore seven carefully handpicked fitness applications perfect for mature women seeking the perfect digital companion to achieve balanced, effective exercise routines.
Why Fitness Apps Are Ideal for Women Over 50
Your age is a factor when deciding your approach to fitness. While regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining bone density, muscle mass, and overall wellness, you need to focus on certain areas, like your joint health, the need for low-impact exercises, exercises that maintain bone health and prevent osteoporosis and workouts for improved post-menopausal health, which generic fitness apps might not address.
The best fitness apps for women over 50 provide tips designed to work and adapt to your ever-shifting lifestyle with safe, effective routines for your age group.
7 Best Fitness Apps for Women Over 50
1- Reverse.Health Fitness App
Reverse Health is our top choice for its comprehensive approach to women's health after 50, focusing on hormonal balance, weight management, and sustainable fitness routines.
Key Features
Personal coaching sets Reverse Health apart from typical fitness apps. Their unique algorithm creates customized workout and nutrition plans based on your metabolism, lifestyle, and health goals. Each program adapts to hormonal changes common during menopause, backed by expert-vetted tips and advice.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Hormone-conscious approach to fitness
- Excellent nutrition guidance, including personal meal recommendations
- Supportive community features
- Regular program updates
Cons:
- Higher price point
Pricing and Availability
- Free 7-day trial
- Monthly plan: $14.99
- Annual plan: $119.99 (save 33%)
2- Silver Sneakers GO
Silver Sneakers GO delivers specialized workouts perfect for aging adults who want to start being more active or want to continue their active routine. This app offers excellent accessibility, often for free, as it comes bundled with many Medicare plans.
Key Features
This app excels through accessibility features and clear instructions. Video demonstrations show exercises from multiple angles, and voice guidance helps users maintain proper form during workouts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- On-demand workout videos ranging from 4 to 45 minutes
- Balance-focused exercises promoting fall prevention
- Simple navigation perfect for tech beginners
- Access through multiple devices
- Scheduled live classes option
Cons:
- Limited access without Medicare eligibility
- Some features require gym attendance
Pricing and Availability
- No additional cost with eligible Medicare plans
- $8.99 a month
3- Mighty Health
Specifically designed for adults over 50, Mighty Health sets itself apart through personalized coaching, medical professional oversight, and comprehensive wellness features.
Key Features
Mighty Health takes a comprehensive approach to active aging through personalized coaching and science-backed workouts. Real wellness experts review your progress, guiding you with age-specific advice and additional customization based on existing health conditions like previous injuries, arthritis, and more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One-on-one health coaching
- Custom exercise modifications
- Daily nutrition guidance
- Doctor-designed programs
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic apps
- Full features require commitment
- May be too comprehensive for those wanting something more simple and straightforward
Pricing and Availability
- Free 7-day trial
- Monthly plan: $19.99
- Annual plan: $179.99 (save 25%)
- Some insurance plans may cover costs
4- Chair One Fitness
Who says you can’t have fun with seated workouts? Chair One Fitness is a revolutionary app that adds engaging, music-driven exercise routines for those with mobility challenges or anyone who simply prefers to get their sweat on with seated activities.
Key Features
The specialized chair-based exercises make fitness accessible to everyone, which is especially important for post-menopausal women struggling to find the right type of physical activity. The app also features crystal-clear video instructions, showing proper form from multiple angles, while the music-driven routines keep workouts fun and engaging.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Chair-based cardio workouts
- Dance-inspired movements
- Live virtual classes
- On-demand workout library
Cons:
- Limited non-chair exercises
- Some features require additional equipment
- Live class times may not suit all schedules
Pricing and Availability
- Free basic access
- Premium: $12.99/month
- Annual plan: $99.99
- Group class packages available
5- 7-Minute Chi
Did you know that Tai Chi is good for older women? But this ancient Chinese art isn’t easy to learn, and not everyone has the time to dedicate to starting from scratch. This is where 7-Minute Chi comes in. It compresses this martial art's gentle, mindful movements into quick and easily digestible daily energy boosts.
Key Features
The short, effective workouts are perfect for older women with busy schedules. The gentle-flowing movements improve balance and coordination, while mindfulness reduces stress while exercising.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Time-efficient workouts
- Easy to follow
- No equipment needed
- Good for beginners
Cons:
- Limited exercise variety
- Basic features
Pricing and Availability
- Free version available
- Premium: $4.99/month
- Lifetime access: $39.99
6- MapMyWalk
MapMyWalk transforms your daily leisurely strolls into engaging fitness activities through route tracking and community features with a competitive twist for those seeking extra motivation.
Key Features
Enjoy morning, afternoon, and evening walks much more safely with GPS tracking that monitors your walking routes and progress. The added social features connect you to local walking groups. It also comes with safety alerts that notify emergency contacts if and when needed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Short, effective workouts
- Energy-boosting exercises
- No equipment needed
- Good for beginners
Cons:
- Limited exercise variety
- Basic features
Pricing and Availability
- Free basic version
- MVP subscription: $5.99/month or $29.99/year
7- Apple Fitness+
This isn’t specifically for senior-aged women, but it’s one of the only apps on the market that delivers premium workout content with excellent production quality and seamless technology integration.
Key Features
This is one of our recommendations for the best weight loss apps for women on iPhones for several reasons. It lets you track vital signs and movement and allows for additional modifications alongside your main workouts. The regularly added new content keeps routines fresh and exciting.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent production quality
- Seamless device integration
- Regular new content
- Diverse workout types
Cons:
- Requires Apple devices
- Need Apple Watch for full features
Pricing and Availability
- $9.99/month
- $79.99/year
- Included with Apple One Premier
- 1-month free trial
Choosing the Right Fitness App for Your Needs
The safe approach is to start with apps offering free trials so you can explore different features without making a financial commitment. Pay close attention to workout styles offered to see if they match your preferences and fitness goals. If they do, then that’s the time you get a paid subscription.
However, a one-size-fits-all solution might not exist for you—yet. A better way of looking at things is that you need multiple apps to achieve what you want.
For example, you might combine Reverse Health for specific post-menopausal guidance and community access with a “free” app like Silver Sneakers GO (if you’re eligible). This way, you’ve got the basic fitness routines covered, and you get access to a community of like-minded senior-aged women.
However, consult your healthcare provider before starting the new exercise program. They can suggest specific features that best suit your current fitness level.
Recap: Tips for Staying Motivated with Fitness Apps
Starting your fitness journey isn’t easy, and sticking to it is even more challenging. Seeing things through requires making smart choices and careful planning.
We chose these seven apps because they offer beginner-level programs with proper progression and safety guidelines. Some even offer specific programs for arthritis and joint conditions.
Regardless of your preferred app, we recommend starting slowly, listening to your body, and working closely with a healthcare provider.
If you listen to our tips, you’ll eventually find the right app to help you maintain an active, healthy lifestyle well into your golden years.
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FAQs
How do fitness apps benefit women over 50?
Fitness apps offer personalized exercises, tracking, and guidance, helping women over 50 improve strength, flexibility, and health safely.
What features should women over 50 look for in fitness apps?
Look for tailored workouts, easy usability, progress tracking, menopause-specific content, and gentle guidance suitable for mature bodies.
Can fitness apps help reduce menopause symptoms?
Yes. regular exercise through fitness apps can ease menopause symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, mood swings, and improve overall quality of life.
Are fitness apps safe for women over 50 who are new to exercising?
Yes, fitness apps often provide beginner-friendly routines, tutorials, and adjustments for women starting exercise after 50.
Do fitness apps for women over 50 require special equipment?
No, many apps offer effective bodyweight workouts or minimal-equipment routines, making them accessible without needing special gear.
