Weight Lifting Workout App

[NotBadForADad]

I'm just getting back into weight lifting and am looking for a free and user friendly app for tracking.

I used to use a 5x5 strong lift type app but am not really interested in super power lifting. I still will do squats, dead lifts, benching, etc. but not to the extent of wanting to die every time I squat.

Looking at fitnotes seems ok. Any others I should know about?

[darkskys]

This a highly variable based on your goals. Check out starting strength by Mark Rippetoe. The program will start you out at relatively light weights. Stick to this program until you plateau.

You shouldn’t feel like you want to die during squats. Unless you have a physiological limitation (injury, mobility, etc) you are very likely going way to heavy.

[Laura33]

I use 5-3-1 Strength.  It's pretty basic -- deadlift, squat, shoulder press, bench -- and sounds somewhat similar to your old app, but it never makes me feel like I want to die every leg day.  ;-)

[ruraljuror]

I don’t have an app recommendation but highly recommend programs developed by Mind Pump. The podcast is great too. 

[NotBadForADad]

I use 5-3-1 Strength.  It's pretty basic -- deadlift, squat, shoulder press, bench -- and sounds somewhat similar to your old app, but it never makes me feel like I want to die every leg day.  ;-)

Nice. I'll look into this one. Thanks!

[darkskys]

+1 for 531 I’ve had people do it with great deal of success as well

[Dreamer40]

It’s not an app, but https://www.fitnessblender.com/videos.com is great for finding lifting routines. Most of their stuff is free though they’ve added paid content in recent years. You don’t have to actually do their videos; they all have free printable workouts attached. There is a free calendar feature but it doesn’t sound like that’s what you’re looking for.

[slappy]

I don’t have an app recommendation but highly recommend programs developed by Mind Pump. The podcast is great too.

Love mindpump! I'm running anabolic right now. I just use a notebook to track my workouts.

[ruraljuror]

I don’t have an app recommendation but highly recommend programs developed by Mind Pump. The podcast is great too.

Love mindpump! I'm running anabolic right now. I just use a notebook to track my workouts.

I’m starting anabolic Phase 2 today. Been great so far. I also just use notebook to track. Plus calorie counting app to focus on nutrition.

[darknight]

Apps are great tools, however I've seen a lot of people in the gym stuck in their phones. Mid workout you pop the phone open, check your next set.. check you IG.. new email..

Some of the healthiest people I've met don't follow or track an app or even a set program (that comes with years of practice though). I have fam members who pay for the app that builds the workout and they do love using its tools/functions. I think it's "fitbod" if I remember correctly. Honestly one of the best programs I have ever used was from one of those "bro science" feeling muscle websites. If you google "best damn workout for natural lifters", choose the "part 2" and it's a great free plan to follow. It goes with a push/pull split and is easy to remember. I had tried apps & lifting plans before but this simplified it and never left me wondering what weird/random movement I had to do next.

[EchoStache]

As an alternative, I love pen and paper in a good quality journal like Moleskin.  I love having a paper journal that is easy to record lifts, sets, reps, weights, rest times, unexpected added exercises that aren't as convenient to add with an app.  Maybe you jump rope for 10 minutes.  Or add dips unexpectedly, or chinups.  Make a note about how you felt, if something pulled, or felt heavy, or you felt SAF that day, or didn't sleep well or eat enough etc etc etc.

I mentioned a high quality journal vs a $2 Walmart special because all super cheap journals I've used fall apart before filling them up.