TL;DR
WIRED updated its annual roundup of standout workout apps for 2026, testing and ranking tools that span guided classes, running coaches, outdoor mapping, AI health coaches, and one-on-one human coaching. The list highlights device requirements, subscription tiers, and new additions such as Garmin Connect+ and Fitbit’s AI coach in public preview.
What happened
WIRED published an updated guide to notable fitness and workout apps for 2026, selecting apps that the editors judged useful across different goals and platforms. The update, dated January 2026, added picks including Garmin Connect+, Fitbit’s AI Health Coach (in public preview), Future, AllTrails, and Apple Fitness+. Reviewers tested apps for features such as live and on-demand classes, guided runs, outdoor route tools, personalized coaching (AI and human), integration with wearables, and offline mapping. The story highlights top picks: Peloton’s App One as the overall recommendation, Apple Fitness+ for iPhone users, Nike Run Club for running, AllTrails for outdoor routes, Fitbit’s Health Coach for AI-guided plans, and Future for hands-on human coaching. Pricing and device requirements are listed for many apps; WIRED also notes it may receive affiliate compensation for featured products.
Why it matters
- Consumers face a crowded fitness-app market—WIRED’s testing narrows options by platform, coaching style, and device compatibility.
- Device and subscription requirements can limit access; some services are built to work best with specific hardware.
- New AI and human coaching options change how people get personalized training without joining a gym.
- Outdoor and mapping tools with offline features can be important for safety and route planning away from cell coverage.
Key facts
- WIRED reports more than 97,000 workout apps exist, citing the Health Works Collective.
- The January 2026 update added Garmin Connect+, Fitbit’s AI Health Coach, Future, AllTrails, and Apple Fitness+ to the roundup.
- Peloton App One is listed as WIRED’s best overall pick; App One costs $13 per month and App+ is listed at $24 per month in the review.
- Apple Fitness+ is presented as the pick for iPhone users and is listed at $10 per month; the service requires an iPhone able to update to the latest OS and uses Apple Watch for on-screen metrics.
- AllTrails offers Plus ($36) and Peak ($80) subscriptions with features like offline maps, route planning, and 3D flyovers; it integrates with Apple Watch, Garmin, and Strava.
- Fitbit’s Health Coach is described as an AI-enabled, personalized coach in public preview and is presented as part of Fitbit Premium; the article lists $10 in association with the coach.
- Future is highlighted for one-on-one human coaching and syncs with Apple Watch or Google Pixel Watch; the article lists both $149 in a header and later reports a monthly cost of $199 with a first-month $99 price.
- Nike Run Club is recommended for guided runs and training programs and is compatible with Apple Watch for tracking.
- WIRED discloses that featured products are independently selected by editors but that the site may receive compensation from retailers for purchases through links.
What to watch next
- Whether Fitbit’s AI Health Coach moves out of public preview and how its features change over time — not confirmed in the source.
- Future’s long-term subscription pricing and the apparent discrepancy in the article between header and later monthly figures — not confirmed in the source.
- Adoption and feature expansion of Garmin Connect+ among Garmin users and how the subscription layer evolves — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- AI health coach: A software-based coach that uses algorithms and user input to create personalized workout and wellness plans.
- On-demand classes: Pre-recorded workout sessions that users can start at any time, rather than attending a scheduled live class.
- Offline maps: Downloaded map data that allows navigation and route planning without a cellular connection.
- Guided run: A running workout where audio coaching provides pacing, motivation, and instructions throughout the session.
- Wearable integration: The ability for an app to sync with devices such as smartwatches or fitness trackers to show metrics and record workouts.
Reader FAQ
Which app did WIRED name best overall?
Peloton’s App One is listed as WIRED’s best overall pick.
Do any picks require specific hardware?
Yes. Apple Fitness+ requires an iPhone that can update to the latest OS and uses Apple Watch for on-screen metrics; the article also notes Apple TV is needed to watch on a TV.
Are these apps free?
Many are subscription-based; the article lists specific prices for several apps (for example, Peloton App One $13/month, Apple Fitness+ $10/month, AllTrails Plus $36/Peak $80), while others may have different models.
Which app offers one-on-one human coaching?
Future is highlighted for personalized, one-on-one human coaching and live interactions.
ADRIENNE SO BOUTAYNA CHOKRANE GEAR JAN 3, 2026 5:30 AM The Best Workout Apps to Kickstart Your Health Goals in 2026 These fitness apps will help you turn New Year's…
Sources
- 13 Best Fitness and Workout Apps for 2026, Tested & Reviewed
- The Best Workout Apps We've Tested for 2026
- The Best Workout Apps of 2026: For Any Fitness Goals
- The 10 Best Workout And Fitness Apps Of 2026
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