The Top 5 Workout Apps for Apple Watch: Get Fitter, Faster

If you own an Apple Watch and you’re serious about getting fitter, faster and feeling your best, you’re in good company. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned athlete, the right workout app can transform your Apple Watch from a smartwatch into a powerful personal trainer. From running trackers and guided workouts to mindful breathing and motivating music, we’ve rounded up the top 5 workout apps for Apple Watch to help boost your fitness journey.

Plus, we’ll show you how pairing these apps with Buckle & Band’s stylish yet sporty Apple Watch straps—like our Mona and Hybri collections—can keep you looking and feeling great while you train.

1. Strava – Best for Runners and Cyclists

Price: Free (with optional paid subscription)
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Features: ★★★★★

Strava is a must-have for runners, cyclists, and swimmers. With its powerful GPS tracking, in-depth performance analysis and vibrant social network, Strava makes it easy to track your workouts, set goals, and stay motivated. The Apple Watch app allows you to start activities directly from your wrist, monitor heart rate, pace and elevation, and sync everything to your Strava profile. The premium version adds features like personalised training plans and live performance feedback.

Why we love it: Strava turns solo workouts into social experiences, perfect for those who thrive on community and competition.

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2. Apple Watch Workout App – Best Built-In Option

Price: Free (included with Apple Watch)
Ease of Use: ★★★★★
Features: ★★★★☆

Sometimes, the best solutions are already on your wrist. The native Apple Watch Workout app supports a wide variety of activities—from walking and strength training to HIIT and even dance workouts. It’s incredibly easy to use, syncs seamlessly with Apple Health, and gives you real-time stats like heart rate, calories burned, and distance travelled.

Why we love it: Simple, fast and effective. No faffing with downloads or subscriptions—just tap and go.

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3. Nike Run Club – Best for Guided Runs and Coaching

Price: Free
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Features: ★★★★☆

Nike Run Club is more than a tracking tool—it’s a coach on your wrist. The app offers free guided runs by professional athletes and coaches, personalised training plans based on your goals, and motivational audio prompts to keep you on pace. The Apple Watch version is sleek, intuitive, and syncs effortlessly with your Nike profile.

Why we love it: The guided runs feel like having a running coach and cheerleader with you every step of the way—perfect for beginners and experienced runners alike.

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4. Calm – Best for Recovery and Mindfulness

Price: Free with optional subscription (£34.99/year)
Ease of Use: ★★★★★
Features: ★★★★☆

Fitness isn’t just about moving—it’s also about recovery. Calm is the top-rated mindfulness and meditation app, and its Apple Watch integration makes it easy to take a quick breather, reduce stress, or wind down after a workout. With daily meditations, breathing exercises, and sleep stories, it’s an excellent tool for improving mental wellbeing alongside your physical fitness.

Why we love it: Calm helps you stay balanced, focused and energised—ideal for enhancing recovery and preventing burnout.

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5. Spotify – Best for Workout Motivation

Price: Free with ads or £10.99/month for Premium
Ease of Use: ★★★★☆
Features: ★★★★☆

Music can make or break a workout. With Spotify’s Apple Watch app, you can stream playlists, control your music and download tracks directly to your wrist (Premium required), so you can leave your phone behind. Whether you're into high-energy beats or calming ambient sounds, there's something for every workout mood.

Why we love it: Music is one of the best workout motivators, and Spotify offers a near-endless supply of it—all easily accessible from your watch.

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Enhance Your Workout with the Perfect Strap

Having the right Apple Watch strap can make all the difference during workouts. At Buckle & Band, our Mona and Hybri collections are designed specifically with active lifestyles in mind.

Mona Collection – Sleek, Stylish, and Secure

Crafted from a high-quality full grain leather upper with a durable and sweat/water resistant silicone under layer, the Mona straps are water-resistant, lightweight and incredibly comfortable, even during intense sessions. The refined finish adds a touch of luxury to your activewear, making it perfect for both gym sessions and post-workout brunch.

Hybri Collection – The Best of Both Worlds

The Hybri straps combine soft silicone with elegant leather elements, offering a unique fusion of fashion and function. They're ideal for fitness enthusiasts who want a strap that transitions effortlessly from workout to workday.

Whether you’re pounding the pavement, hitting the gym, or meditating in the park, Buckle & Band’s sports straps keep your Apple Watch secure, breathable and undeniably stylish.

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Ready to Get Fitter, Faster?

The Apple Watch is one of the most powerful fitness tools available, but it’s the apps—and your gear—that unlock its full potential. From performance tracking with Strava to meditative recovery with Calm, the right app can enhance every aspect of your wellness routine. Pair your favourite workout apps with a Buckle & Band Mona or Hybri strap to stay comfortable, confident, and stylish on your fitness journey.

Explore our full collection of Apple Watch straps now and take your workouts to the next level - CLICK HERE