The Top 5 Free Fitness & Weight Loss Apps

MyFitnessPal | Available: Apple, Android Boasts largest database with 2 million+ foods that can be found via an included barcode scanner. Counts items' calories, tracks fat, protein, carbs, sugar, fiber and cholesterol. Immediately takes weight, height, and lifestyle into account before giving recommendations, and breaks your big goal into customized smaller ones. Lists more than 350 exercises and tracks cardio and strength training, including sets and reps. Works offline, and a social networking feature allows you to lose weight with friends.

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Study shows apps help you lose pounds & keep them off

According to a new study out of Northwestern University, using a mobile app that tracks your eating and activity can help you lose weight more efficiently than those who aren't equipped with the same technology.

Researchers found that out of the 69 overweight and obese adults studied, those who used digital assistance (and attended 80 percent of the health education classes offered on nutrition, exercise and behavior change) lost an average of 15 pounds and maintained the loss for one year.

Even those who did not attend the sessions, but still used the mobile apps to help monitor their diets and exercise, lost an average of 8.6 pounds.

However, those who were without the mobile technology lost no weight at all—despite attending the education classes.

Lead investigator of the study Bonnie Spring, a professor of preventive medicine, said, “The app is important because it helps people regulate their behavior, which is really hard to do. Most of us have no idea how many calories we consume and how much physical activity we get. The app gives you feedback on this and helps you make smart decisions in the moment. This approach empowers patients to help themselves on a day-to-day basis. We can help people lose meaningful amounts of weight and keep it off. To do that we need to engage them in tracking their own eating and activity, learn how that governs weight, and take advantage of social support.”

Considering Americans exercise less and eat unhealthier during the holiday season—and if your New Year's resolution, like many others, is to lose weight—above are 5 free mobile fitness apps to help get you started on the right track.

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