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Thanks to the development in technology and smart phones we are now able to track our fitness, sleep and nutrition at the touch of a button on our phones. Let’s be honest it is hard enough to try start, stick to and achieve our fitness goals so we will take all the help we can get. Personally, I managed to lose some of my baby weight from using a calorie counter app. It was not rocket science but it was very easy to use and really helped me be aware of my eating habits and how to keep in check with minimal effort.

Android.com have done great research into the best Apps for different activities to help make your life easier.  Below is a summary of the best Apps for 2018. If you would like read more or download the apps just follow the link to their article and they have the download links attached.

Best all-rounder: RunKeeper

RunKeeper has a good reputation, not just for the number of features in its own app but also the number of third-party services it plugs into (it works with both Google Fit and Apple Health). If you’re a keen runner, there aren’t many better options than this one. You can plot your runs on a map via GPS tracking, monitor distance covered and calories burned, set personal goals, integrate your indoor activities and more. Despite the app’s name it can handle bike rides and gym workouts as well as running, so it’s a comprehensive monitoring app.

Best Virtual Training: BitGym

This free app gives you virtual training without the need for any new tech. BitGym takes the boredom out of exercise by providing a virtual tour throughout the world. It uses the your body motion to calculate the speed you are travelling at which provides a great real effect of the effort you are putting in. The great things about this app is that it works with treadmills, bikes, elliptical trainer and rowing machines so no matter your preference it will entertain.

Best for runners: Nike+ Run Club

In addition to having all the features you need to set your goals and track your runs, the Nike+ Run Club app has an energetic and supportive community of millions of runners. You’ll never lack motivation again, since with the Run Club you can compare your runs to others on the various leader boards, participate in group runs, receive trophies and in-run audio cheers from your friends. The new audio-guided running feature with accompanying playlists guides you into improving your speed and endurance, while the personalized coaching plans adapt to your goals and progress levels.

Best for cyclists & running: Strava

Another well-known app with a strong reputation, Strava comes with a host of handy features, both in the core of the app and via separate add-ons. By tracking your bike riding (and running) via GPS, Strava can help you beat your own personal bests and challenge your friends as well. Strava lets you track distance, pace, speed, elevation and other statistics as you go, and thanks to the data that’s been collected from all of Strava’s users, you can check out some of the routes that are popular with other people – even if you’re a long way from home.

Best for workout jams: Spotify Running

A lesser known feature of the popular music streaming app is its feature called Spotify Running. It will play music according to your taste, and in accordance with the tempo of your run. To find the feature, go to Browse > Genres & Moods, and select Running. Pick a playlist, start running and Spotify will detect your tempo automatically and play music to match.

Best for simplicity: Google Fit

Google’s own health and fitness app is no longer so sparse in the features department. It now can aggregate info from other apps, including Nike+, MyFitnessPal, Lifesun, Basis, Withings, Xiaomi Mi bands, and three from this list: Runkeeper, Strava and Sleep as Android. It is tightly integrated with Android and Android Wear, so it’s a convenient option as well.

Best heart rate monitor: Instant Heart Rate

It’s important to track your heart rate during the different stages of your fitness regimen. Whether this is before, during or after your workout, you should keep an eye on it. Instant Heart Rate gives you accurate heart rates when you need them so you can reach your fitness goals.

Best for measuring your body fat: BMI Calculator

If you ever wondered how you’re doing with your goals of eliminating excess body fat, then you should try BMI Calculator. The app is really simple, which sets it apart from other body fat measuring apps. All you need to do is plug in your height and weight and it will give you a percentage estimate of your body fat. Once the app has calculated your body fat it will give you a recommendation about your exercise regimen.