Five health apps you need to download today

This is a guest post provided by Jessica Kane. Kane is a professional blogger who is trying to be healthier this year. She currently writes for AEDs Today, a leading supplier of automatic external defibrillators.

Smartphones make it easier than ever to reach your personal fitness goals. However, with the abundance of health apps on the market, it can be difficult to wade through the clutter to find the right ones for you. Here are five apps worth your consideration whether you’re an avid exerciser or just a casual calorie burner looking to get started on the path to a healthier life.

1. Zombies, Run! 3 ($3.99, iOS & Android)
Want to turn your workout into a video game? With Zombies, Run! 3, you can do just that. It doesn’t matter if you run outdoors or on a treadmill, this app will have you thinking you’re actually running from hordes of zombies as you complete missions and collect supplies. Best of all, the game will work for you no matter what speed you choose to run. You’ll do more than lose fat. You’ll become the hero of your own action story.

2. C25K (Free, iOS & Android)
C25K takes a more traditional training approach for those new to running. Based on the wildly popular Couch-to-5K Running Plan, this app will slowly build your endurance through a combination of walking and running. By the end of the program, you’ll be able to complete the entire distance of a 5K race (3.1 miles). This app is also backed by a community of dedicated users who support one another through the entire process.

3. Figwee Portion Explorer ($1.99, iOS)
Dieting can be difficult when you’re always on the go. If you’re unable to count calories, it’s easy to become discouraged and fall off the bandwagon. With Figwee Portion Explorer, that won’t be a problem for you any longer. With this app, you’ll be able to estimate the nutritional content of your meal by comparing it to pictures on your screen. The user interface is also very clean and easy to use.

4. Gym Goal 2 ($5.99, iOS)
Although Gym Goal 2 is the most expensive app on this list, it’s the one you’ll want if you’re serious about strength training. Choose from one of the training programs already included with the app or build one to meet your specifications. There are countless ways to customize this app to make it your own. You can also use the app to track your body measurements, like body mass index, body fat and weight.

5. Lose It!(Free, iOS & Android)
Lose It! is the most simple, straightforward calorie counting app on the market. Set a goal, record your meals and lose weight in a manageable and sustainable way. This app also syncs with popular devices, like FitBit activity trackers, to make reaching your ideal weight even easier. You’ll also have access to a large online community of users where you can join challenges, get the support you need and have fun as you work toward a healthier you.