Finding the right treadmill app can transform an ordinary workout into an engaging, goal-driven experience. With thousands of fitness apps available on Google Play and the App Store, narrowing down the best options can feel overwhelming. Whether you're looking for guided classes, scenic virtual runs, or advanced progress tracking, selecting the perfect app can make all the difference in your fitness routine.
To save you time and effort, this list highlights six of the best workout apps we've reviewed. Each app offers unique features, from motivational coaching to interactive worlds, to enhance your running or walking sessions, regardless of skill level.
Key Criteria for Choosing the Best Treadmill App
Each app was evaluated based on the following criteria:
- User-Friendliness: The best apps should be simple to navigate and set up, ensuring you get straight to your workout without frustration.
- Workout and Entertainment Options: We looked for apps offering a mix of class styles, coaching, and creative programming that cater to all levels.
- Training Metrics: Apps that offer robust tracking of performance stats and workout data were prioritized.
- Pricing: From free versions to premium subscriptions, the value of each app was carefully considered.
Now let’s explore what makes each of these treadmill apps stand out!
1. Best Overall FREE Treadmill App: SPIRIT+
Price: Free with qualifying Spirit Equipment
Platforms: iOS, Android
Ideal For: Customizable workouts and cross-training variety
There are countless apps on the market, but only a few truly help you achieve your fitness goals. One of those is Fitness Spirit+, an app that not only helps you organize your workouts but also takes care of your health in many ways. SPIRIT+ is designed for those who want a comprehensive and versatile approach to fitness. With extensive library of classes across multiple fitness categories, this app caters to a wide range of fitness goals. Its intuitive interface allows users to sort classes by trainer, category, intensity, and duration, ensuring a tailored workout experience every time.
The Spirit+ app is compatible with various cardio machines, including treadmills, exercise bikes, elliptical cross trainers and rowing machines, but that's not all! You can also use it without any equipment. With a wide range of workout categories to choose from, it’s perfect for everyone, no matter how you like to stay active.
The app also integrates seamlessly with popular fitness trackers, making it easy to store and share workout data. Whether tracking progress, setting goals, or exploring killer playlists, SPIRIT+ keeps motivation high and training smart.
Key Features:
- Over 3,000 on-demand classes spanning 10 workout categories, including treadmill, cycling, elliptical, rowing, yoga, and more
- Compatible with cardio machines or usable on its own, the Spirit+ app offers diverse workouts to match any fitness style
- Customizable filters for personalized training
- Integration with leading fitness apps for data sharing (Apple Health, Google Fit, Fitbit, and MapMyFitness)
- Free membership with qualifying Spirit Equipment
While access requires a qualifying serial number from Spirit Equipment, the wealth of features, ability to track and export workout data, and absence of additional monthly fees for the full version make SPIRIT+ an exceptional choice for those seeking variety and personalization in their treadmill sessions.
The SPIRIT+ app is available for download on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
2. Best for Scenic Runs and Versatile Workouts: iFIT
Price: Starting at £12/month, £31/month (version pro)
Platforms: iOS, Android
Best For: Scenic runs, on-demand classes, and versatility
iFIT is a standout choice for fitness enthusiasts, offering compatibility with a variety of cardio machines from different brands. Whether you're using a treadmill, bike, or elliptical, or prefer workouts without equipment, iFIT has you covered. With a library of over 17,000 on-demand classes, you can enjoy everything from scenic outdoor runs and hikes to HIIT and strength sessions. Virtually explore breathtaking destinations like Japan’s cityscapes, the mountains of Chile, and Europe’s historic landmarks, turning every workout into an adventure.
For those with compatible treadmills (such as NordicTrack or ProForm models), iFIT takes things up a notch with automatic speed and incline adjustments that match your workout terrain. Even without specific equipment, the app remains highly accessible via smartphones and tablets.
Pros:
- Vast workout library for all fitness levels, both on and off your equipment
- Immersive scenic runs and hikes
- Automatic incline and speed adjustments with compatible machines
- AI Coach (beta), personal fitness assistant and trainer, keeps you motivated and accountable to your plan
Cons:
- Limited live workout options
- Music selection restricted to genre-based stations
The iFIT app has its roots in the late 1970s, beginning as Weslo Design International, founded by Scott Watterson and Gary Stevenson while at Utah State University. Initially focused on selling trampolines and exercise bikes, the company evolved over the decades, acquiring iconic brands like NordicTrack and ProForm. By 2021, iFIT had become a leader in interactive fitness, streaming over 141 million live and on-demand workouts guided by more than 180 expert trainers.
With its diverse programs, user-friendly interface, and immersive virtual experiences, iFIT remains an interesting option for home workouts.
The iFIT+ app is available for download on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
3. Best for Data Tracking: MapMyRun
Price: £5/month or £24/year (premium), Free (limited version: tracking app)
Platforms: iOS, Android
Best For: Runners who want detailed performance metrics
MapMyRun by Under Armour is a run and workout tracking app. A premium plan adds features such as live tracking and customized training plans. Although originally designed for outdoor use with GPS functionality, it adapts well to treadmill workouts when paired with compatible fitness trackers or heart-rate monitors. Users can track metrics like duration, calorie burn, and heart rate seamlessly.
Pros:
- User-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
- Excellent route planning functionality
- Detailed and well-presented data
Cons:
- Most features, including training plans and audio coaching, require a Premium subscription
- Trail maps are less comprehensive
With a premium subscription, MapMyRun unlocks advanced features, including:
- Audio Coaching: Real-time feedback during workouts
- Custom Training Plans: Tailored programs for all fitness levels
- Social Challenges: Compete with friends and stay motivated
While it lacks video classes or scenic visuals, MapMyRun shines with its user-friendly design and detailed analytics, perfect for anyone looking to monitor and improve their treadmill performance.
The MapMyRun app is available for download on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
4. Best for Motivation: Aaptiv
Price: £11.99/month or £79.99/year
Platforms: iOS, Android
Best For: Audio-based coaching and staying focused
Aaptiv delivers a unique audio-driven workout experience, making it a great choice for runners who prefer to stay off their screens. With motivating cues from expert coaches, runners can focus purely on their performance while being guided through tailored workouts.
Aaptiv’s accountability features, like calendar scheduling and push notifications, help users stay on track. Although it lacks visual elements and offers a limited pool of trainers, its simplicity and coach-driven energy make it a motivating companion for treadmill workouts.
Pros:
- Audio-guided workouts
- Extensive library of workouts
- New classes added weekly
- Programs tailored to specific goals
- Motivating cues from expert coaches
Cons:
- Smaller selection of coaches compared to competitors
- Lacks nutrition-related content
- Free trial only available with an annual plan subscription
The Aaptiv app is available for download on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
5. Best Virtual Experience: Zwift
Price: £16/month or £160/year (+ applicable VAT)
Platforms: iOS, Android
Best For: Gamified, immersive running experiences
Zwift is a popular virtual training platform, especially among the indoor cycling community, but it’s also a great tool for runners. Zwift takes treadmill workouts to the next level by combining fitness with gaming. Users can explore virtual landscapes, from Scotland to futuristic Watopia, while their treadmill pace controls the movement of an on-screen avatar.
To use Zwift, runners need a Bluetooth-enabled treadmill or additional devices like a running sensor, smart shoes, or a smartwatch. While setup can be slightly technical, the payoff is worth it for anyone seeking an engaging and interactive way to work out.
Pros:
- Endless workout options to suit any schedule
- Customizable training plans designed for your goals
- Daily group rides happening around the clock
- Competitive races organized for all skill levels
- 12 virtual worlds with hundreds of kilometers to ride
- Thriving community of over a million Zwifters
Cons:
- For the best experience, you’ll need compatible equipment like a smart treadmill or foot pod to track your speed and cadence.
- While excellent for treadmill runners, Zwift’s features and routes are more focused on cycling, so runners may find fewer options tailored exclusively to their needs.
The Zwift app is available for download on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
6. Best for Live Classes: Peloton
Price: Starting at £12.99/month (Peloton App One) or £24/month (Peloton+/Peloton Guide), £39/month (All-Access Membership)
Platforms: iOS, Android
Ideal For: Real-time coaching and community-driven workouts
Peloton’s app has earned a reputation for delivering dynamic live and on-demand fitness classes. While it’s commonly associated with cycling, the treadmill classes are equally impressive, offering everything from beginner-friendly sessions to advanced interval training.
The live class feature fosters a sense of community, with instructors providing real-time encouragement and guidance. The extensive library ensures users can always find a class that fits their schedule and goals. Although the subscription is on the higher side, the engaging workouts and professional coaching justify the cost.
You can choose from two types of memberships:
1. No Peloton equipment needed.
2. For Peloton Bike, Bike+, Tread, Guide owners.
Learn more about all of the memberships here.
Peloton App+ (Full access):
- Provides access for the entire household with a Peloton Bike or Tread.
- Unlimited access to live streaming and on-demand classes, scenic rides, challenges, and real-time performance tracking.
- All Peloton classes are available, with no restrictions.
- Multiple profiles can be created for household members to access the full library on Peloton Bike, Tread, and the Peloton App.
- Age, height, and weight restrictions apply.
Peloton App One Membership (Limited option):
- Does not provide full access to classes on Peloton Bike or Tread (3 Exercise bike, treadmill, & rower workouts per month).
- Real-time performance metrics cannot be tracked.
- Single-user membership for Web and/or iOS/Android app platforms.
- Membership cannot be shared among multiple users.
The Peloton app is available for download on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
Choosing the Right Treadmill App
The ideal treadmill app depends on personal preferences and fitness goals. For those who value detailed performance tracking, apps like MapMyRun offer advanced analytics. Users seeking variety and entertainment might lean toward iFIT or Zwift for their immersive features. Meanwhile, SPIRIT+ provides an excellent no-cost option for runners with qualifying Spirit Equipment.
Incorporating a treadmill app into workouts can transform the monotony of running in place into an engaging and productive activity. These apps provide structure, motivation, and a sense of accomplishment, making it easier to stay consistent with fitness routines. The right app can turn a simple treadmill session into a rewarding journey toward better health. With the variety of apps available today, every runner, from casual walkers to serious athletes, can discover a platform that meets their needs.
