Fitness Apps: How to run away from your responsibilities in style

Chris Daniel explores the use of fitness apps and how they can assist you.

Throughout the semester you find yourself constantly off track, drowning in the stresses of deadlines and exams, fuelled by the temporary promise of a large coffee. You do less physical exercise and more of a slow jog into insanity. In the forefront of your mind, you always tell yourself that you will get back into shape, but we all know that it isn’t that easy.

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According to a recent study, wearable technologies such as FitBits have a low success rate. With 50 per cent of users simply neglecting these devices within 12 months of use, it is not only a waste of money but also a constant reminder of what could have been.

With that in mind, the rage of wearable technologies has shifted to fitness applications, which instead of having to fork out hundreds of dollars, are either free or come as a one-time payment offer.

If you have found yourself going this whole semester without undergoing any form of exercise, just a word of warning. If you ever wanted to know what a heart attack feels like, the apps may give you the experience of a cardiac arrest, so ease into it. Here are the most successful fitness applications that are simple to use and cost next to nothing.

‘C25K’- Couch Potato to 5K
Cost: FREE

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It sounds off-putting, but the C25K app eases you into the fitness routine with short intervals of running mixed with breaks and walking. Over the course of time you use the app, it gradually introduces a heavier workload, however manages to maintain a reasonable pace.

Once you trial the app, you will notice that its approach differs from any other fitness routine or training method used by traditional applications. By easing you through the routine within the first few weeks, the 9-week program will eventually transform your ordinary lifestyle by building enough body strength to run 5km in a 30-minute period.

Zombies, Run!
Cost: $2.99

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The app manages to combine the narrative of a zombie apocalypse into a stress free fitness routine. Selecting different episodes allows you to choose your own fate.

Similar to any other application, ‘Zombies, Run!’ tracks your distance and gradually builds up your core body strength. Throughout the course of the application’s use, it will reenact an apocalyptic wasteland where you collect supplies, get chased by zombies and save the world, whilst in reality actually assisting in weight loss.

Although the application requires a one off payment, it also allows you to listen to your own music. If zombies tickle your fancy, the company ‘Six to Start’ has also developed a Superhero Workout program.

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It’s difficult to trial fitness applications over a short period of time, however traditional applications tend to be easier to use without having to interact too much. This also allows the user to listen to their own music. There are countless training routines and health applications available through the app store, however there are some notable mentions. ADIDAS and NIKE have both developed training routines suitable for beginner and intermediate workouts. Another ingenious application called Charity Miles has developed a routine completely dependent on the distance you run, donating money to charities based on that figure.

Despite the fact these applications (and a range of others) have proven to be successful, there are plenty of other options for fitness on campus. Gyms and health services are available, including personal training and psychological and physical advice. See below for details.

Memberships on campus
UON campuses provide rehabilitation facilities and gym clinics with memberships for students available. Training sessions are also available on demand, with reasonable operating hours.

CALLAGHAN
The Forum, University Drive
(02) 4921 7001

OURIMBAH
Ourimbah Gym Clinic
yourgym@yourimbah.com.au

Medical and health services on campus
On campus services are available for health related issues, including referral to external specialists within rehabilitation and physiotherapy. Undertaking intense exercise routines without the supervision of a personal trainer could result in injuries that may require attention. For consultations please contact your campus health service.

CALLAGHAN
Student Services Centre
(02) 4921 6000

OURIMBAH
Student Support Unit
4348 4060

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