Have you ever tried to measure your running routes using a map, a bit of string and a ruler? Measured your pulse at the end of a gym class with two fingers and the second hand on your watch? You don’t have to admit it; just start using one of our top apps for sports instead.
From heart rate monitoring and GPS so you don’t get lost, to counting how many calories you’ve burned and making some killer training mixes, there’s apps for everything you could imagine to make your fitness routine more enjoyable.
We can’t guarantee you’ll enjoy every second of your workouts – but with a bit of help from these apps, they’ll be miles more interesting, motivating - and you might even start getting competitive!
Endomondo Sports Tracker* for BlackBerry, Android and iPhone
Endorphins are pumping all over the world thanks to Endomondo. It lets you track your routes, whether you’re cycling, hiking, running – or even rowing. Just take your phone with you on your workout and Endomondo works out the distance you’ve gone, your speed, calories burned and more. Upgrade to the PRO version and you’ll even be able to see graphs of your performance, so you can track your progress over time – great for marathon training and keeping your New Years’ resolutions.
http://www.endomondo.com
Instant Heart Rate for Android and iPhone
Check your pulse without a heart rate strap, a stopwatch or fumbling at your wrist. With this handy app, all you have to do is place a fingertip over the camera on your phone, and it’ll use the flash to read your pulse in under ten seconds. A great addition to your phone, whether it’s for curiosity, fitness or medical reasons.
http://www.instantheartrate.com/
CycleStreets for Android and iPhone (free)
Get a street-by-street cycle route all mapped out for you. Just select where you are and where you’re going (or wait for your built-in GPS to kick in) and CycleStreets will work out the best ways for you to get there. Opt to plan a route that avoids hills, stay on quiet roads, or find a safe place to lock your bike up. If you’re feeling confident, mount your phone on your handlebars and you’ll be able to see your route as you cycle, just like a sat nav in your car.
https://market.android.com/details?id=net.cyclestreets
http://itunes.apple.com/app/ishare/id391984737?mt=8
