The Ultimate Aaptiv Review (2024) + Free Trial

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A big part of consistency with your fitness program is mustering up the motivation to get your workout done. According to a recent report by the CDC, only 23% of Americans are getting enough physical activity.

Imagine if you didn’t have to think about planning your workout? 

Then take a look at the Aaptiv app. This audio fitness app is like having a personal trainer in your pocket with thousands of guided workouts ready when you are. 

In this detailed Aaptiv review, I’ll take you on a tour and share some of the things I’ve learned from using it for the past eight years, and why I think it can offer some unique value to your exercise routine.

TL;DR – Grab a 30-day Aaptiv free trial here!

All views are based on my own experience. This post is not sponsored, but I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate link. All screenshots are published with permission from Aaptiv.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Read the full disclaimer.

What is the Aaptiv fitness app?

Aaptiv is an audio fitness app that offers guided workouts for many different styles of exercise at any fitness level.

It offers a highly personalized experience by taking your preferences and fitness level into account and customizing your workout plan.

Workouts can get boring, but with Aaptiv you have access to over 2500 classes and new content added weekly. Sweat on your time with workouts starting at under 10 minutes to fit into your busy schedule.

Whether you’re looking for a cardio workout or strength workout, the Aaptiv fitness trainers have you covered.

The app is primarily audio-based, led by certified trainers. There are video examples of exercises to follow along.

You also have the option to connect your workouts to Life Fitness equipment.

Aaptiv workouts

The app interface is designed cleanly with easy-to-use features. When you first log into the app, you’re greeted with a suggestion of daily workouts (pictured above) based on the goals that you’ve selected.

One of the best things about Aaptiv is its impressive line-up of workout options (including “fitness class” workouts to keep you more engaged during your next treadmill workout).

• Treadmill
• Outdoor running
• Race training (e.g. 5K or half marathon)
• Strength training
• Walking
• Pilates
• Elliptical
• Indoor Cycling AKA spin class
• Stair climber
• Rowing
• Boxing
• Barre
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Stretching
• Sleep 
• Mobility

Choose your workout type, filter the length of the workout, level of difficulty, Aaptiv coach, and the genre of music/theme of the workout. 

The picture below is an example of how the workout options are laid out. This category is the stair climber workout category, but the way the options are displayed are the same in each category.

If you click into any of the workouts, you can get more details of what movements will be included in the workout, the intensity, time, and estimated calories burned.

You can also join a team challenge to help keep you accountable and make progress toward your fitness goal.

At this time, they include:

• Get Stronger
• Get Started
• Love your body
• Lose Weight
• Stay Fit
• Run Faster
• Reduce stress
• Maternity

If you click on a challenge, it shows you the workouts included within each program.

In the seven years that I’ve been using this guided workout app, Aaptiv has been consistently adding fresh content, which is good because nobody wants to log in and see the same old options.

According to its website, Aaptiv offers more than 2500 classes and adds 30 new classes each week.

Instead of plugging away mindlessly on cardio equipment, try a virtual workout class. It’s a good option if you just want to move but not think too hard. Elliptical workouts are much less boring with an audio workout guide.

You’ll be much more engaged and get a different workout than binge-watching Netflix like a zombie.

Music

One of the most motivating parts of any workout is the music.

It used to be that you could pick workouts by music genre, but that was all the control you had over the tunes. A common complaint online was that you couldn’t use your own music.

Now, when you first begin an Aaptiv workout, the app allows you to pick your music. You have the option of sticking with the original playlist or choosing from other types such as pop, hip hop, house, electronic, rock, chill, and ambient beats. You can also select “voice only” and use your own music.

Bonus, there’s the ability to skip a song in the playlist! A bad song can really tank your motivation, so this option is a huge advantage.

These new music options are a pretty cool addition to the app. The only thing to be aware of is if you choose different music, the bpm doesn’t always match what you’re doing in the class.

A deeper look into the Aaptiv app

Each fitness class is led by a certified personal trainer and features premixed music that supports the activity’s cadence. After a while, you’ll figure out which Aaptiv coach is your favorite. (Jamie and Jon are two of my favorite Aaptiv trainers.)

The coach section of the app will suggest workouts for the day for you based on your goals – already done for you, no thinking. You can also schedule workouts and get reminders on your phone to stay consistent with your training program.

For example, today, my app recommended a 30 min cardio workout, a lower body stretching workout, and a sleep meditation to round out the day.

If you’re tracking all your workouts, there’s also an option to add Life Fitness equipment workouts and non-Aaptiv workouts. 

Virtual team challenges are available for that group comradery feeling. If you’re looking for a social component, there’s an option to connect with others on their fitness journey and post a #sweatyselfie on the team global feed.

You can also invite a friend to a workout via text or email. If you have a one-year subscription, you get 10 invites to give out and spread some fitness love. 

In your member profile, you can view your workout history and stats. You can also save your favorite workouts for quick access.

There’s also a member boutique with coupon codes for high-quality home fitness equipment like TRX, Manduka yoga mats, and other essential fitness and wellness swag.

While nutrition information is not specifically tracked through the app, Aaptiv has a nutrition section with a variety of educational articles featuring topics such as meal planning, pre/post workout nutrition, healthy substitutes, intermittent fasting, and more.

Aaptiv running workouts

Running workouts are a big focus on Aaptiv.

They have programs for every fitness level on the treadmill as well as outdoor running.

I am not a runner, but sometimes I do some treadmill intervals just to get my heart rate up. Following one of these workouts helps me pace myself and commit to a longer (less boring) workout than if I did interval training on my own.

I’ve also picked up some form tips from the trainers during the workouts.

The workouts are listed as beginner, intermediate, or advanced. Many can be further adapted to your level by just adjusting the interval speeds to what you can do.

Who is Aaptiv for?

The Aaptiv app is for all fitness levels that want an easy way to stay consistent with a workout program.

Aaptiv offers workouts from beginner to advanced, although absolute beginners may have difficulty with the audio format if you’re not familiar with how to perform the exercises. 

They have recently added a video component for some programs, such as strength training, Pilates, and yoga, which include form tips. Modifications are not always offered, so be prepared with some that work for you to avoid overdoing it. 

Aaptiv is an excellent option for anyone who likes the idea of personal training but doesn’t want to interact with (or pay) for a personal trainer. 

(Obviously, it’s not a substitute for a truly personalized workout, but for those looking for a general done-for-you gym workout, Aaptiv fits the bill.)

When you first sign up for the app, you go through a brief questionnaire about your current fitness level and goals. The app will then customize a workout plan based on your preferences.

After this, you’re free to follow the daily workout plans or pick and choose your workout from the list.

Whether it’s weight loss or a consistent workout program, Aaptiv has a plan for you.

Aaptiv review – pros & cons

Now let’s get into one of the main reasons why you’re here, the pros and cons.  

Pros of Aaptiv

• Access to 2500+ on-demand audio-guided workouts lead by one of Aaptiv’s certified personal trainers
• New workouts added weekly
• Craft a balanced fitness program with a wide variety of offerings
• Schedule workouts to improve your consistency and accountability
• Choose workouts based on your goals
• Download workouts for offline use (in case your gym’s wifi is a little sketchy)
• Offers workouts of all lengths to accommodate your busy schedule
• Crystal clear sound quality, and you can easily hear the trainer’s instructions
• Preselected playlists with BPMs that match the workout, making it easy to find your groove and zone out to the music
• Workouts for cardio equipment like treadmills and elliptical machines (something I haven’t seen on any other platform that I’ve used)
• No need to purchase expensive equipment like a fancy spin bike. Aaptiv cardio workouts work with whatever equipment you have available.
• Nutrition educational information
• Share links to your friends for a free 7-day trial and get $10
• Affordable. Aaptiv costs $15 per month or $99 per year with a free 7-day trial. My readers can get a 30-day Aaptiv free trial here!

Because it’s mostly audio, the workouts can be used either at home or at the gym. It has a more on the go feel than video-guided workouts. Audio only workouts have been a lifesaver when wifi has been too weak to stream a video. 

Aaptiv has recently added a video component for some programs, such as strength training, Pilates, and yoga, which include form tips. This is an excellent addition for beginners to become comfortable with fitness movements. 

Cons of Aaptiv

• No feedback on form
• The modification you need may not be provided
• Does not include integrated meal plans
• Can’t use your own music
• Some workout categories may feel limited to higher level participants
• Cost

As with any app, you will not receive feedback on your form, so make sure you understand how to perform movements properly and safely. This is not a con of Aaptiv, but a noteworthy disadvantage of all workout apps. It’s just not possible. 

Modifications are not always provided, so be prepared with some that work for you to avoid overdoing it. 

Aaptiv does not offer any integrated meal plans at this time.

Some users used to feel it was a con that you couldn’t use your own music. However, the app now allows you to pick your music from their playlists or use your own within each workout.

Though Aaptiv offers several workout categories, running and cardio machine classes are really where Aaptiv shines. Some higher-level participants may feel limited in sections like yoga or Pilates. If you’re looking for fitness classes that also include a large variety of yoga and Pilates, check out ALO Moves.

Another potential con is that there isn’t a free plan. You do, however, get a free 7-day trial and my readers can get a 30-day Aaptiv free trial with this link. 

$15 per month or $99 per year is still way cheaper than private studio classes. However, a paid app means there are no pesky ad interruptions, and you can be sure you’re getting quality content. 

Other tips about using the Aaptiv app

When you first sign up, you need to go through a brief survey about your fitness level, fitness goals, and workout preference.

The app uses this information to suggest relevant workouts for you and help you build a healthy plan.  

Personally, I wasn’t looking for programs. I just wanted access to the workouts straightaway. However, after this survey, you’re free to do whatever you want. 

This is very useful for those looking for more personalized plans. I would have liked the option to skip this step. 

It’s possible to use Aaptiv on more than one device, but you can’t be logged in to more than one at a time. 

You still have to BYO motivation. Show up, press play, and do the work. 

FAQ about the Aaptiv fitness app

In this section, I took to Google and answered the most frequently asked questions about Aaptiv from a user standpoint.

Customer service experience

This year I had an issue with my renewal through the iOS app store. I was notified that Aaptiv was renewed, however, the app was prompting me to pay and I wasn’t able to access any content.

I contacted their customer service via and it was a quick and easy fix.

For anyone else with this issue, I just needed to go into settings and restore my purchase, and voila, crisis averted.

So I can say that my customer service experience was a positive one. The team was professional and quick to respond.

Is the Aaptiv app worth it?

The Aaptiv fitness app offers an impressive amount of value for a low price. It’s a comprehensive workout app, offering a variety of fitness and wellness options to make your life easier.

You can use the app as a stand-alone workout plan or adjunct to your already existing fitness plan to have a little more variety.

If you struggle with the fitness equivalent of writer’s block, using a fitness app like Aaptiv can take the guesswork out of your workout. It’s as easy as hitting play on your phone. 

Whether you’re looking to ditch the gym membership or add some variety to your current routine, Aaptiv is definitely worth checking out.

Don’t miss out on the Aaptiv 30-day free trial! Tag me on Instagram @empower_your_wellness and let me know your favorite workout!

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