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SO IT’S A NEW year and chances are you’re thinking of starting a new resolution. That’s great, but maybe you need some help getting you started or a way just to keep you on track.
If that’s the case, you should know that there are numerous apps out there that will help you out. Since you have your phone on you at all times, it makes sense to use it to help develop good habits over the coming months. It’s tough but if you have a specific aim, these apps can help.
Note: all apps below require willpower.
Couch to 5K
For: iOS, Android
Cost: €2.99
If you’re starting from square one and you want an accessible routine, Couch to 5K is the closest thing you will get to that. Breaking it down into manageable goals over nine weeks, it’s great for getting you active and get you ready for a 5K run.
RunKeeper
For: iOS, Android
Cost: Free
While there are many running apps out there, RunKeeper is one of the older but better ones out there. With tracking features, training schedules for 10k, half-marathon and full marathons, it’s handy for those who are a little more serious about their running.
Calorie Counter by MyFitnessPal
For: iOS, Android
Cost: Free
We could always do with improving our diet, but if you need to fine tune it, Calorie Counter can really help. Keeping a database of more than five million foods, it also includes a recipe importer that allows you to save and track any recipe you see online. Also, it connects to most fitness apps giving you a more comprehensive activity feed.
Duolingo
For: iOS, Android, Windows Phone (Web)
Cost: Free
It’s hard to argue against DuoLingo. It’s been around for so long yet it sets the standard for learning a language on the go. Breaking it up into manageable games, it’s great for getting the basics down and can even help you get into the advanced stages of a language.
CodeAcademy
For: Web
Cost: Free
Covering a wide range of coding disciplines, CodeAcademy is a bit like DuoLingo in that it breaks up lessons into easy to manage chunks. So long as you have a bit of free time most days, you’ll be able to pick up on the basics of C++, Javascript, HTML and others.
You Need a Budget
For: iOS, Android (PC and Mac)
Cost: €50
One of the most comprehensive budget apps out there, You Need A Budget works best on desktop but it’s incredibly useful to have when you’re on the go. The price may seem steep but if you give it the time it deserves, it can help you save money in the long-run.
Headspace
For: iOS, Android (web)
Cost: Subscription (10-day trial)
While there are many quality meditation apps out there, Headspace is a good place to start. Starting off with 10 minute segments before increasing it to 15 and 20 minutes, it’s a gentle introduction for anyone new to meditation and mindfulness.
Smoke Free (iOS) or Quit Smoking (Android)
For: iOS, Android
Cost: Free
There’s no consistent app across all platform but both Smoke Free and Quit Smoking focus on how you benefit from quitting. Giving you details like how much money you’ve saved, how your health is improving, and also giving bite-sized challenges for you to keep focused, it will ensure you stay on track.
I want to manage my time better
Way of Life (iOS) or Habit Bull (Android)
For: iOS, Android
Cost: Free
Granted, certain apps already offer a reminder feature, but if your resolution is more obscure, then Way of Life or Habit Bull will help. Both require you to log in your achievements but each one will remind you about tasks and build up a picture of how well (or badly) you’re doing.
This piece is part of 12 days of tech, a series offering quick tips and tech advice for you during the Christmas holidays. You can view previous entries here.
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You Need to Budget app, €50!! If you need this app you can’t afford it.
YNAB (You need a Budget) is absolutely awesome and so much more than just an app. I use it myself and the cost of the subscription for a year (50$) was offset with savings within the first month, for which they offer a 34 day no commitment trial period.
Buying that program was one of the best decisions I have made in 2015.
I want to learn how to budget..€50.. Start by not buying that!
People will soon need an app to wipe their backsides.
Plenty of free apps out there doing the same thing especially couch to 5k
It’s a bit like Eddie Hobbs asking people to shell out twenty quid for his book on financial advice.
Couch to 5k running apps are great, but I’d recommend going to the local athletics club or C25K running group. It’s the camaraderie among the group that will help you achieve the goal, not the app. (But the app helps a little!)
MyFitnessPal is an excellent app but make sure your eating the right calories. Eating processed foods and keeping low cals doesn’t mean your food plan is good. Of course the web version shows this with levels of sugar, carbs, protein etc. Runkeeper is good too but you’re better off having a GPS watch in weather like this. The smartphone will thank you for it.
Maybe not using the phone would be a great start to your fitness routine.
These apps will leave people a slave to the phone and statistics that in reality mean nothing unless your a professional athlete looking for the inches.
I am budgeting right now, I am not getting that 50 euro app, saved 50 euro in a moment!
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