Apple introduces Fitness+, a new virtual workout platform

On Tuesday, Apple officially introduced Fitness+, the company’s new virtual at-home exercise experience. The program, which is built around the Apple Watch, will bring classic studio fitness classes to users wherever and whenever they please. From high intensity interval training (HIIT), to yoga, to treadmill workouts and so much more, Fitness+ and Apple’s team of certified trainers will keep users active and engaged with new classes added every week. Apple Fitness+ will launch December 14, and a free trial will be available for all users before a paid subscription ($12.99 per month or $99.99 for a full year) kicks in.  

Working out anytime and anywhere 

Fitness+ was specifically created for Apple Watch users. The app connects your watch to your phone, iPad or Apple TV, allowing you to watch your instructor as they take you through whichever workout you’ve chosen for the day. No matter where you are, you’ll be able to connect to Fitness+ if you have your watch and one of those devices. This means you can perform tough, engaging workouts from the comfort of your home, take the program to the gym or use it anywhere else you might find yourself. 

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Every week, Fitness+ will be updated with new workouts and classes from Apple’s lineup of trainers, and you can choose exactly who you want to work with, what you want to do and how long you want your workout to be. From beginner classes in which you learn the basics and proper form for each exercise up to routines for more experienced users, you’ll never run out of options for your next class.

Why runners will like Fitness+ 

If you already have an Apple Watch, Fitness+ could be a great thing to try out. There are, of course, treadmill workouts (which are a great option for winter training when you don’t want to go outside), but there are also core, strength and other cross-training routines (such as cycling and rowing).

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For all of these cardio workouts, runners will especially like the Fitness+ metrics that appear on the Apple Watch and iPhone, iPad or Apple TV screen. As you work out, you’ll be able to see your heart rate, a countdown timer for intervals, your Activity rings (which Apple Watch users will know well) and more. There is also a feature called the Burn Bar, which shows your effort and how you rank among others who have performed the same workout. This is all anonymous, but you get to see exactly how you stack up against everyone else on Fitness+. 

To learn more about the upcoming Apple Fitness+, click here.