Apple Fitness+ and How to Use In Your Exercise Routine

On Tuesday, Apple announced its new on demand exercise platform: Apple Fitness+

Being an avid Apple picker and running my own online training business, I am totally psyched about this. A few friends texted me after the event and asked if that was going to hurt what I do… really, it’s the exact opposite.

If you know me, you know I preach well-roundedness, incorporating as many possible forms of fitness and activity into your wellness routine. With COVID, more people than ever are giving other things a try and home workouts are right at the top of the list. Apple Fitness+ will stream on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV. Whether or not it will be streamable on non-Apple devices remains to be seen, but I would think so as long as you purchase a subscription, which will be $9.99/mo or $79.99/yr.

Video from the event show a Netflix-like interface with workout classes in 10 different activities; including, HIIT, Strength, Rowing, Running / Walking, Dance, and Mindful Cool-down. Perhaps the coolest feature will be a real-time display of your Apple Watch Workout metrics on the screen. Come again? Yeah, similar to what Orange Theory does by displaying your heart rate on a big screen to monitor throughout the workout, you’ll be able to see anything you normally see on your wrist on the screen. When the trainer tells you to grind for 30 more seconds, a countdown timer will pop up on the screen, for example. If you’re asked to bring your heart rate down, that will shift to being more prominent on screen. This might not seem super awesome, but if you’re like me, I’m flipping my wrist way too often during some workouts to see where my heart rate is at –or more likely– how much I have left 🤪

“Late 2020” is all we’re getting as far as a release date, but I’m sure this was carefully timed to be launched and give people time to get it on their new Christmas gifts prior to the New Year fitness craze, er, mass intention. 2021 should have an even more massive imaginary boost as the human race is still a hopeful one and we can’t get out of this current year fast enough.

How do I add Apple Fitness+ in my routine?

The key –as with most things– is to not get overly giddy and think that you’ll want to do the same thing every single day. You won’t. And yeah, I know there will 10 different workout options, but they’re still housed in the same platform, which means you’re probably in the same place or two when you’re doing them.

The client-friends that have success are almost always the ones who switch it up frequently and approach fitness for its multitude of benefits, not just a singular goal or result.

I plan on using this service myself, and as I try and practice what I preach, here’s how I will be structuring my week once this launches. Keep in mind that I live in Cleveland and anticipate snow and don’t-wanna-be-outside temperature around launch time.

Monday // Weight Training at Gym
Tuesday // Apple Fitness+ Workout (Low Impact)
Wednesday // Gym Workout at Apartment
Thursday // Bundled Dog Jog with Husky
Friday // (Chill)
Saturday // Gym Workout at Gym
Sunday // Apple Fitness+ Workout (Higher Intensity)

This is just an example, but I assure you that using the service (or any new ‘thing’) two or three times per week will yield much greater long term results versus the overeager who say they’re going to stream Apple Fitness+ EVERY DAY to get in sick killer awesome shape. Tomorrow, said person gets a flat tire on the way to work –creating a cascade of insufficient free time, extra stress, extra calories, and ultimately no “time” to workout– whelp, so much for that!

Everyone knows consistency is key. What we struggle with is what creates consistency.

Apple Fitness+ will undoubtedly be another great option to make your exercise routine more exciting, more accessible, and –most importantly– more balanced. Check out the hype video below and make it a good day.