This Article is From Nov 20, 2015

This Exercise App Might Work Out

This Exercise App Might Work Out

Image Courtesy: iStock

One of the best things about exercise is that a little can go a long way in getting us in shape, lifting our moods, fending off disease and prolonging our lives - if we simply make the time to do it regularly. Of course, it can be difficult to find that time, or to remember to use it. And it can be easy to get caught in an exercise rut, where our workouts lose their effectiveness.

If only each of us had a trainer following us around all day, prodding us to use those extra minutes while waiting for a bus, or inspiring us with new and different workouts.

The free Sworkit app might be the closest we'll come to such a scenario. It provides users with randomized and demonstrated circuit training activities for a selected amount of time. Since the exercises rely on body weight, they can be done just about anywhere and are especially convenient if you travel frequently or can't get to a gym.

The app is extremely easy to use. From the main menu, you can select one of four basic types of exercise - yoga, stretching, cardio or strength training - and then individualize them. For example, yoga options include sun salutations, full sequences and yoga for runners and Pilates; cardio variations include a light warm-up, full intensity and a boot camp workout.

Users receive a brief video demonstration of each exercise before the clock starts. An advanced setting allows users to set a specific rest time between reps.

Another option is to customize a workout by selecting specific exercises in sequence, or copying a popular workout based on parameters such as "low impact" or "around the office." Up to three customized workouts can be saved. Users can also download Sworkit's playlists from Spotify.

The app awards users with a medal for each completed workout. It then automatically issues a daily reminder to do that workout, though notifications can be customized. Users can even share workouts they like with others via e-mail or text.

In just one, uncustomized, five-minute full-body workout, I found myself quickly working up a sweat. I loaded and reloaded the same workout to see if I would eventually get the same series of exercises. I didn't. The sheer number of different exercises - many I had never even seen - as well as their complete randomization was impressive.

I was excited to learn new exercises and to think about how doing just five minutes of work here or there over the course of a day could help me tone my muscles, rev my sluggish metabolism, de-stress and lift my mood. And with winter coming, I'm thinking five minutes of a subtle around-the-office-style workout - no jumping around or floor exercises - might be a better pick-me-up than my go-to cup of tea.

BOTTOM LINE: This app allows you to live up to its name: Simply work it!

Free, with $3.99 pro version.
 
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