Tired of generic workout routines that don’t deliver results? The best AI workout planner apps 2025 are changing the fitness game with personalized training plans backed by real science. Studies suggest you can see improvements in cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength in as little as 12 weeks when using these intelligent systems.
Unlike traditional fitness apps, today’s AI workout generators adapt to your progress, preferences, and goals. Whether you’re looking for a free AI workout generator or a comprehensive AI fitness coach, the technology has evolved significantly. Apps like PUSH use AI and peer-reviewed scientific research to calculate optimal training cycles for your entire body, while others offer everything from HIIT and strength training to mobility and yoga classes.
Fortunately, you don’t need to break the bank to access these advanced tools. Many top options are completely free without hidden costs or subscriptions. In fact, Nike Training Club stands out as a totally free option with a wide variety of workout videos for different fitness levels. As we explore these five leading AI workout planners, you’ll discover which one best aligns with your specific fitness journey—whether you’re focused on building strength like with Dr. Muscle or looking for a more versatile approach to your training.
PUSH
Image Source: Zapier
Among the elite contenders in the AI fitness space, PUSH stands out as an app with laser-focus on one goal: building muscle as quickly and efficiently as possible through science-backed methods. Created by fitness influencer Joe Delaney, PUSH doesn’t try to be everything for everyone—instead, it excels at strength training through meticulous tracking and progressive overload.
PUSH Key Features
What immediately catches your attention with PUSH is its exceptionally clean, well-designed interface that prioritizes functionality without overwhelming you with unnecessary elements. Unlike many fitness apps that bombard you with cluttered screens, PUSH offers a spacious yet comprehensive experience with thoughtfully designed menus, fonts, and icons.
The app’s core features include:
- Adaptive workout programs that automatically update sets, reps, rest periods, and volume based on your performance data
- Built-in rest timer that varies depending on the type of exercise you’re performing
- Visual progress tracking with a rolling 7-day volume tracker to monitor muscle growth
- Exercise customization including the ability to add drop sets, supersets, and create your own moves
- Animated exercise demonstrations for proper form guidance
Additionally, PUSH offers exercise substitution suggestions when you don’t like a particular movement, selecting alternatives based on similar fatigue patterns and resistance curves.
PUSH AI Capabilities
At the heart of PUSH is an AI algorithm built on peer-reviewed scientific research. To clarify, the app doesn’t just claim scientific backing—it actually provides access to the referenced studies throughout the interface, marked by a yellow microscope icon for those who want to understand the reasoning behind their training.
The AI generates personalized programs based on several factors:
- Your training experience level
- Sleep quality
- Gender
- Stress levels
- Available training time
PUSH then fine-tunes your volume, frequency, rep ranges, and exercise selection according to published research related to these factors. Over time, the app implements periodization strategies, including daily undulating periodization systems to prevent plateaus.
Perhaps most impressively, the AI excels at progressive overload—as soon as you achieve your target reps at a certain weight, it automatically calculates your next increment. For users who hit plateaus, it suggests specific “plateau-breaker” exercises, typically involving increased weight for fewer reps.
PUSH Real-World Performance
The most compelling evidence of PUSH’s effectiveness comes from actual users. For instance, one reviewer reported elevating their bench press to a consistent 100kg for multiple sets of five in less than 12 months. The app’s regimented rest timer has also proven valuable in optimizing recovery between sets—an often overlooked aspect of effective training.
User testimonials consistently highlight significant progress:
“Unbeatable. Without a doubt the best workout app I’ve ever used. It makes everything so easy and ensures you’re consistently progressing with your lifts.” – Marlow
“Bit of a revelation after 10 years training. Basically feels like I’ve outsourced the boring parts of training. I can just turn up to the gym and do the fun bit, train.” – Jacob
Even experienced lifters find value in the system: “I’ve been going to the gym for 20+ years, I know my stuff. I was surprised at how much I get out this app. It takes all the tediousness away from a workout plan.” – K4KR
The visual progress tracking features have proven essential for maintaining motivation, especially when physical results aren’t immediately visible.
PUSH Pricing
The investment required for PUSH is higher than many competing fitness apps:
- Monthly subscription: $15.49/£14.99/AU$23.49
- Annual subscription: $89.99/£89.99/AU$144.99
A brief free trial is available before committing to either subscription option. Payment is processed through your app store account, with automatic renewal unless turned off at least 24 hours before the end of your subscription period.
PUSH Best For
PUSH is primarily designed for those serious about building muscle and strength through weight training. The app is particularly valuable for:
- Intermediate to advanced lifters looking to break through plateaus
- Data-oriented individuals who appreciate science-backed training
- People who want to eliminate guesswork from their training
- Those with access to gym equipment (though workouts can be adapted based on available equipment)
It’s worth noting that PUSH is singularly focused on strength training—you won’t find Pilates, mobility work, cardio, or other disciplines. For those specifically seeking muscle and strength gains with meticulous progression tracking, PUSH offers a specialized solution that few other apps can match in terms of depth and scientific backing.
Ladder
Image Source: www.joinladder.com
Looking for strength training that feels like having a personal coach in your pocket? Ladder has emerged as a standout AI workout planner app focused on strength training with an emphasis on community and expert-led programs. After experiencing remarkable growth with paid subscribers jumping from 2,000 to 30,000 in mid-2023, Ladder has continued to expand, reaching 50,000 paying customers with an expected 500% growth in the past calendar year.
Ladder Key Features
Ladder differentiates itself from other fitness apps by providing a complete workout plan rather than just a random library of exercises. The app delivers:
- Daily structured workouts that are new each week and programmed by expert coaches
- Progressive overload training designed in six-week cycles to steadily build strength
- Integrated tracking system called “Ladder Journal” to monitor rep and weight progress
- Seamless music integration with Spotify and Apple Music that automatically adjusts volume during coaching cues
- Video demonstrations for proper form on all exercises
Furthermore, the app features a community aspect through team chats where members doing the same workouts can interact with each other and their coach. This approach combines the accountability of group fitness with the flexibility of working out on your own schedule.
The app currently offers 17 different fitness coaches, each with unique training styles ranging from bodybuilding to kettlebell training, HIIT workouts, Pilates, and yoga-strength combinations. Every Sunday evening, members receive their upcoming week’s programming, eliminating the need to plan workouts themselves.
Ladder AI Capabilities
Behind the scenes, Ladder employs a proprietary software system called Apollo that helps coaches manage their growing communities. This AI-powered system enables:
- Sentiment analysis of team chatrooms to gage member satisfaction
- Question identification to highlight top concerns from users
- User engagement monitoring to identify members who haven’t received responses
As a result, coaches can efficiently manage larger groups without sacrificing the personalized feel that makes Ladder effective. The company has been able to handle substantial user growth while maintaining a relatively similar staff size thanks to these AI tools.
Additionally, Ladder is exploring machine learning algorithms to analyze user data and recommend personalized workout plans, computer vision technology for form correction, and adaptive intensity adjustment based on performance. Nevertheless, the human element remains central to the Ladder experience, with AI serving to enhance rather than replace coach interaction.
Ladder Real-World Performance
Ladder’s effectiveness has earned it impressive recognition in the fitness world, including the Women’s Health 2023 Best Strength Training Program award. User testimonials consistently highlight several key benefits:
“This programming has changed my life. I’m stronger and able to lift heavier than I ever have and working out 6 days a week“.
“Having coached workout sessions delivered every Sunday evening for the upcoming week is a lifesaver! Knowing my week is already planned allows me to stay focused and on track with my fitness goals“.
The app’s success stems partly from its clear identity as a strength-focused platform, making it particularly popular among women looking to incorporate more resistance training into their routines. The structured six-week cycles with progressive overload have proven effective for users seeking measurable progress.
Moreover, Ladder’s combination of consistency and novelty keeps users engaged—workouts follow similar patterns for six-week cycles but change slightly every two weeks to prevent boredom while maintaining progression.
Ladder Pricing
Ladder offers a 7-day free trial with no payment information required until after the trial ends. Following the trial period, pricing options include:
- Pro Plan (Monthly): $29.99/month – Includes weekly workout plans, in-ear coaching, progress tracking, and access to one team with two team changes permitted monthly
- Pro Plan (Annual): $179.99/year ($14.99/month) – Everything in the monthly plan plus access to all Ladder teams and workouts with unlimited team changes
Previously, Ladder offered an Elite Plan for $44.99/month that included one-on-one coaching, but this option appears to have been discontinued in favor of strengthening the community-based model.
Compared to traditional personal training, which typically costs $50-$100 per session, Ladder provides exceptional value for those seeking expert-designed workout programs.
Ladder Best For
Ladder is ideally suited for:
- Busy, motivated individuals who want structured strength training but lack time to plan workouts
- Intermediate fitness enthusiasts looking to progress through strategic programming
- People seeking accountability without the commitment of scheduled classes
- Those who prefer working out on their own schedule whether at home, in a gym, or outdoors
- Individuals who value community support alongside expert guidance
The app is less ideal for complete beginners who might need more hands-on form correction or those seeking the ultimate personalization of one-on-one coaching. Given that 80% of Ladder users weren’t using a fitness app before joining, it has clearly found an underserved niche in the digital fitness space—people who want structured strength training with the feel of being coached.
Future
Image Source: Future
For those seeking the ultimate blend of personal training and technology, Future stands out as a hybrid solution that connects you with a dedicated human coach augmented by AI capabilities. Consistently rated 4.9 stars across thousands of reviews, Future takes a different approach from fully automated workout apps by pairing members with real fitness professionals who design custom programs.
Future Key Features
The core appeal of Future lies in its personalized coaching relationship combined with sophisticated technology:
- One-on-one personal training with a coach selected from a roster of highly qualified fitness professionals, many with experience at top training facilities and professional sports teams
- Custom weekly workout plans delivered every Sunday based on your goals, equipment access, and schedule
- Seamless Apple Watch integration (with Android support now available) that tracks heart rate, workout duration, and calorie burn in real-time
- Watch loaner program that provides a complimentary device for members without an Apple Watch for the duration of membership
- Form feedback through a video recording feature allowing coaches to analyze and correct your technique
- Consistent communication with your coach through in-app messaging for motivation and accountability
The app experience itself features pre-recorded demonstrations for each exercise, along with personalized audio recordings from your coach that play throughout the workout. A timer system keeps you on track during each session, automatically adjusting between exercises and rest periods.
Future AI Capabilities
Despite focusing on human connection, Future incorporates AI to enhance the coaching experience:
The technology primarily serves to collect and analyze workout data, enabling coaches to make informed decisions about your training progression. Through smart device integration, the system monitors performance metrics and makes them available to your coach, who then adjusts your plan accordingly.
Each time you open the app for a workout, you’re greeted with a personalized recording from your coach discussing your recent progress and goals. The app also employs smart notifications to remind you of scheduled workouts and provide motivational prompts based on your activity patterns.
The Apple Watch (or compatible Android device) integration is particularly clever—it vibrates to indicate when you should rest and when to begin your next set, creating a guided experience without constant phone interaction.
Future Real-World Performance
Future has earned enthusiastic reviews from various fitness levels, with users highlighting several key benefits:
“Describing Future was a big challenge. FW’s Brand process allowed our business to align and build consensus around how we communicate Future through messaging and design,” notes Rishi Mandal, CEO.
The app has demonstrated effectiveness across various goals—one reviewer achieved a personal record deadlift of 225 pounds after four months of use. Another user praised the accountability aspect: “Future is changing the game for what it means to work out virtually, providing an impressive coaching experience with highly qualified trainers“.
For busy professionals, the flexibility proves invaluable. You can work out whenever fits your schedule since all exercises and demos are pre-recorded, yet still receive timely feedback and check-ins from your coach. Furthermore, coaches can adapt programming instantly if your situation changes—whether you’re traveling, have limited equipment, or need to modify due to injury.
Future Pricing
Future positions itself as a premium service with corresponding pricing:
- Standard monthly rate: $199 per month
- First month special: $99 (50% discount promotion)
- Satisfaction guarantee: Full refund if canceled within first 30 days
The cost is considerably higher than most fitness apps yet significantly lower than traditional in-person training. As one reviewer noted, “$150 is roughly what you’ll pay for one single personal training session at most gyms”. Given that Future provides ongoing support and multiple workouts weekly, the value proposition makes sense for those who would otherwise hire a personal trainer.
Future Best For
Future is ideally suited for:
- Individuals seeking accountability who need external motivation to maintain consistency
- Busy professionals who want personalized guidance but require scheduling flexibility
- Goal-oriented exercisers looking to achieve specific milestones like strength PRs or weight loss
- Those with changing environments who travel frequently or workout in different locations
- Equipment-flexible workouts adapting to home, gym, or hotel settings
One important consideration is that Future requires access to exercise equipment for many workouts. The app works best for those who have either a home gym setup or a gym membership, though coaches can design bodyweight or minimal equipment routines when necessary.
On balance, Future delivers a unique hybrid of technology and human expertise that fills the gap between impersonal workout apps and expensive in-person training. The price point is justified for those who value personalized attention and accountability in their fitness journey.
Nike Training Club
Image Source: Tom’s Guide
In a market filled with specialized AI fitness solutions, Nike Training Club stands as the versatile powerhouse offering something for virtually everyone. With nearly 500 workouts spanning numerous fitness disciplines, this completely free app has evolved into a comprehensive wellness platform that combines exercise variety with personalized recommendations.
Nike Training Club Key Features
At its core, Nike Training Club offers an extensive library of workout options that cater to diverse fitness needs:
- Rich workout variety with 487 classes spanning cardio, mobility, yoga, strength training, and more
- Multiple workout formats including trainer-led classes (5-60 minutes), whiteboard workouts (showing sets and reps), and quick sessions for time-constrained users
- Equipment flexibility with options for basic equipment (home-friendly), complete equipment (gym setting), or no equipment whatsoever
- Holistic wellness content featuring tips on training, nutrition, recovery, mindset, and sleep
Beyond workouts, the app provides extensive wellness resources through its Tips section, where you’ll find advice on nutrition (including recipes), recovery techniques, mental preparation, and sleep optimization. This comprehensive approach reflects Nike’s commitment to overall health rather than just physical exercise.
The app’s interface receives high marks for intuitive design, making navigation straightforward even for those less comfortable with technology. After creating a profile, the app asks several questions about your fitness level, workout frequency, and preferred location to curate your homepage with relevant exercises.
Nike Training Club AI Capabilities
Nike Training Club leverages AI technology to enhance your fitness journey in several ways. The app analyzes your workout data to generate personalized recommendations for future sessions. It also adapts training intensity and difficulty as you progress through your fitness journey.
The personalization aspect begins with an initial assessment that sorts users into beginner, intermediate, or advanced categories. While this categorization may seem basic compared to some competitors, it effectively tailors the workout experience to your general fitness level.
The AI-driven adaptive training system responds to your changing schedule and adjusts to your progress. Furthermore, the app tracks your activity, giving credit for workouts completed outside the app, such as runs tracked with Nike Run Club or other physical activities.
Nike Training Club Real-World Performance
Real users consistently highlight the app’s effectiveness in maintaining workout consistency. One reviewer noted that the app eliminated her need for excuses—even on busy days, she could spare 10 minutes for a quick, effective workout. The variety of workout options prevents boredom, allowing users to try familiar exercises one day and challenge themselves with new muscle groups the next.
Users appreciate the instructor guidance on proper form during sessions, which helps prevent injuries and maximize results. Additionally, the app’s workout tracking capability, which records completed workouts and total exercise minutes, provides motivational feedback on progress.
Nike Training Club Pricing
Possibly the most compelling aspect of Nike Training Club is its price: completely free. Previously, Nike charged USD 14.95 monthly for Premium membership, which included additional workouts, training programs, and health guidance. However, during the pandemic, Nike made all Premium features free, a policy that continues today.
This pricing model sets Nike Training Club apart from most competitors that typically charge between USD 10-15 monthly. Without subscription fees or hidden costs, the app offers exceptional value considering its extensive content library.
Nike Training Club Best For
Nike Training Club is ideally suited for:
- Beginners seeking high-quality, free instruction from fitness professionals
- Users wanting variety across strength, mobility, HIIT, and wellness classes
- Those already in shape looking to maintain fitness through diverse workouts
- Time-constrained individuals who appreciate quick, effective sessions
The app’s primary limitation is its relatively basic personalization compared to specialized AI platforms. It lacks detailed progress tracking for specific lifts or exercises, making it less suitable for serious strength athletes or those with very specific fitness goals. Additionally, some longtime users have noted a reduction in structured training plans following the shift to the free model.
Nevertheless, for most fitness enthusiasts—especially those seeking a free, comprehensive solution—Nike Training Club offers an exceptional combination of variety, quality, and accessibility in the AI workout app landscape.
Shred App
Image Source: Garage Gym Reviews
With its sleek design and adaptive programming, Shred has carved out a distinctive niche in the AI fitness app landscape. This digital platform delivers personalized workout routines that adjust based on your goals, equipment availability, and performance data, making it a strong contender among the best AI workout planner apps 2025.
Shred App Key Features
Shred’s appeal lies in its extensive customization capabilities and user-friendly interface:
- Personalized training plans tailored to your specific fitness objectives, from strength building to toning
- Equipment-flexible workouts that automatically adapt based on what you have access to—whether dumbbells, barbells, resistance bands, or just your bodyweight
- Comprehensive tracking for weights, reps, and personal records with visual progress charts
- Social connectivity through “workout parties” where users can train together virtually
- Exercise library with detailed video demonstrations and step-by-step breakdowns for proper form
Beyond these core features, Shred offers goal-specific programming that covers everything from hypertrophy and bulking to bodyweight-only routines. The app’s interface receives high marks for intuitive navigation, although some users note it can occasionally feel overwhelming with numerous options.
Shred App AI Capabilities
At the heart of Shred is its adaptive AI engine that powers several intelligent functions:
The app employs artificial intelligence to suggest appropriate weights for your next set, optimize rest periods between exercises, and adjust tempo based on your performance history. This creates a constantly evolving experience that prevents plateaus in your training.
Likewise, Shred recently introduced CoachAI Chat, an intelligent system that allows you to communicate directly with your virtual coach about program adjustments, nutrition guidance, and sleep recommendations. Complementing this is CoachAI Workout Audio, which provides rich voice guidance throughout your training sessions.
Consequently, the AI personalizes your experience across various workout styles including Signature, CrossShred, Lean-X, and Bulk programs, ensuring continued progress regardless of your chosen training method.
Shred App Real-World Performance
In practical application, Shred has garnered positive feedback from diverse users:
The app maintains impressive ratings of 4.8 on the App Store and 4.7 on Google Play. Many users praise its workout variety, although some mention occasional technical difficulties, primarily with the Android version.
Furthermore, high school and college athletes find Shred valuable for supplementing sport-specific training, helping maintain fitness during off-seasons. The app’s adaptive programming prevents workout monotony while keeping users challenged with gradually increasing difficulty.
Generally, users appreciate the tracking features that visualize progress even when physical results aren’t immediately visible. Certainly, the “achievement system” that celebrates consistency and personal bests provides regular positive reinforcement.
Shred App Pricing
Shred offers several pricing tiers to accommodate different budgets:
- Free Basic: $0 forever – Includes limited workout library access and basic tracking features
- Annual Subscription: $119.99/year ($9.99/month) – Comes with a 7-day free trial
- Monthly Subscription: $19.99/month – No trial period
Unique among fitness apps, Shred offers special discounts of up to 30% for military personnel, first responders, medical professionals, teachers, and students. Both paid tiers include personalized training plans, AI-powered progression, exercise libraries with video demonstrations, and Apple Watch integration.
Shred App Best For
Shred is ideally suited for:
- Results-driven individuals who prefer structured training but dislike planning workouts
- Intermediate to advanced exercisers looking for progression-focused programming
- Equipment-flexible users who train in different environments
- Socially-motivated exercisers who enjoy community challenges and leaderboards
In essence, Shred works well for those who enjoy variety and HIIT-style training but falls short for users seeking highly specialized programming for specific sports like powerlifting or Olympic weightlifting. Its balance of structure and flexibility makes it a compelling option in the crowded AI workout app marketplace of 2025.
Comparison Table
| App Name | Core Focus | Key Features | AI Capabilities | Pricing (USD) | User Rating | Equipment Requirements |
| PUSH | Strength & muscle building | – Adaptive workout programs – Built-in rest timer – Visual progress tracking – Exercise customization – Animated demonstrations | – Personalized programs based on experience, sleep, gender, stress – Auto-calculates progressive overload – Scientific research-backed algorithms | Monthly: $15.49 Annual: $89.99 | Not specified | Primarily gym equipment |
| Ladder | Strength training with community focus | – Daily structured workouts – Progressive overload training – Integrated tracking – Music integration – Team chats | – Apollo system for community management – Sentiment analysis – Question identification – User engagement monitoring | Monthly: $29.99 Annual: $179.99 | Not specified | Flexible – home or gym |
| Future | Personal training hybrid | – 1-on-1 coaching – Custom weekly plans – Apple Watch integration – Form feedback – Coach messaging | – Workout data analysis – Smart notifications – Performance metrics tracking | Monthly: $199 First month: $99 | 4.9/5 stars | Flexible – adapts to available equipment |
| Nike Training Club | Versatile fitness & wellness | – 487 classes – Multiple workout formats – Equipment flexibility – Wellness content | – Personalized recommendations – Adaptive training system – Progress tracking | Completely free | Not specified | No equipment to full gym options |
| Shred App | Adaptive fitness training | – Personalized plans – Equipment-flexible workouts – Comprehensive tracking – Social connectivity – Video demonstrations | – Weight suggestions – Rest period optimization – CoachAI Chat – Workout Audio guidance | Free Basic: $0 Monthly: $19.99 Annual: $119.99 | 4.8 App Store 4.7 Google Play | Flexible – bodyweight to full equipment |
Conclusion
After exploring these five leading AI workout planners, you can see how artificial intelligence has transformed fitness training in 2025. Each app offers unique strengths depending on your specific goals and preferences.
PUSH stands out for serious lifters focused exclusively on strength gains with its science-backed approach to progressive overload. Ladder delivers expert-designed programs with valuable community support at a mid-range price point. Future provides the closest experience to personal training through its hybrid model combining human coaches with AI technology, though at a premium price. Nike Training Club remains the versatile, budget-friendly champion with nearly 500 workouts across multiple disciplines—all completely free. Shred App balances customization with affordability, adapting workouts based on available equipment while maintaining social connectivity.
Your fitness journey requires different tools at different stages. Beginners might benefit most from Nike Training Club’s comprehensive library and zero cost barrier. Those seeking structured strength progression without planning workouts themselves will find value in PUSH or Ladder. Meanwhile, individuals needing accountability and personalized guidance might justify Future’s higher investment.
Equipment access also plays a crucial role in your decision. Some apps require full gym setups while others adapt seamlessly to bodyweight-only scenarios. Additionally, budget considerations range from completely free options to premium subscriptions reaching $199 monthly.
The best AI workout planner ultimately depends on your specific fitness goals, preferred training style, available equipment, and budget constraints. These technologies now deliver personalized fitness guidance previously available only through expensive personal trainers.
Take time to assess your priorities before committing to any platform. Many offer free trials, allowing you to experience their interfaces and workout styles firsthand. Your perfect fitness companion awaits—one that adapts to your progress, keeps you accountable, and guides you toward your goals with scientific precision.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best AI workout planner app in 2025?
The best AI workout planner app depends on your specific fitness goals and preferences. Top contenders include PUSH for strength training, Ladder for community-focused programs, Future for personalized coaching, Nike Training Club for versatile free workouts, and Shred App for adaptive training. Each offers unique features and AI capabilities to suit different needs.
Q2. How do AI workout apps personalize training plans?
AI workout apps use various data points to personalize training plans. They typically consider factors like your fitness level, goals, available equipment, and performance data. The AI algorithms then create customized workouts, adjust difficulty levels, and provide recommendations based on your progress and feedback.
Q3. Are AI workout planners suitable for beginners?
Yes, many AI workout planners are suitable for beginners. Apps like Nike Training Club offer a wide range of workouts for all fitness levels, including beginners. These apps often start with an assessment of your current fitness level and goals, then provide appropriate workouts and gradually increase difficulty as you progress.
Q4. How much do AI workout planner apps typically cost?
The cost of AI workout planner apps varies widely. Some, like Nike Training Club, are completely free. Others range from around $15 to $30 per month for subscriptions. Premium options like Future, which offer personalized coaching, can cost up to $199 per month. Many apps offer free trials or basic free versions to help you decide before committing to a paid plan.
Q5. Can AI workout apps replace personal trainers?
While AI workout apps have become increasingly sophisticated, they can’t fully replace the personalized attention and expertise of a human personal trainer. However, apps like Future offer a hybrid model, combining AI technology with real human coaches. For many users, AI workout apps provide a cost-effective alternative that offers personalized guidance, progress tracking, and motivation.
