Top 8 Free Health & Fitness Apps, 2014-2015

In today's era of smartphones, tablets, and "smart" fitness devices, an increasing number of individuals are tracking their well-being through digital applications. Searching through app stores can be an arduous task, however, as hundreds of new applications hit the market every day.

Fortunately, we've simplified the process for you. We've tested out a number of applications that promise to boost your health and improve your overall well-being. Best of all, these applications are free to download and use! Are you ready to start living a healthier life? Read on to learn more.

Human - Activity & Calorie Tracker

Available for: iOS

If you're looking for an application to get you moving without "working out," the Human - Activity & Calorie Tracker app is perfect for you. This simple, visually stunning application was created with a simple goal in mind: get people moving around for 30 minutes or more each day. Whether you're walking around town or biking a marathon, Human can track your daily movements while motivating you with encouraging mantras and a detailed calorie counter. Most users report that their physical activity increased after using the app. For a simple, straight-forward way to track your daily motion, consider downloading the Human - Activity & Calorie Tracker.

NFL PLAY 60

Available for: iOS and Android

Whether you have kids or you're just a kid at heart, you're guaranteed to enjoy exercising more with the NFL PLAY 60 application. This fun app combines interactive video-game-style graphics with a casual fitness-oriented game. Run, jump, and move about along with your character on the screen. This app is a great alternative to the fitness games offered by the Nintendo Wii. If you're looking to make your workouts feel less like a chore and more like an interactive game, be sure to check out this app.

FoodSwitch

Available for: iOS and Android

Are you tired of reading nutritional labels, trying to figure out what's in your food? If so, FoodSwitch is the perfect application for you. This innovative app allows you to scan barcodes on your favourite products to see how they healthy they are. If your choice is relatively unhealthy, Fooducate will suggest a number of similar, alternative items you could purchase, all of which are healthier than your original choice. The app also tracks nutritional information and even offers a “gluten-swap” option for those following a gluten-free diet. Simply put, FoodSwitch focuses on the overall healthiness of your food, rather than emphasizing calorie counting. This well-rounded application is ideal for "Average Joes" and fitness buffs alike.

Runtastic Six Pack Abs

Available for: iOS and Android

The Runtastic Six Pack Abs application is great for athletes looking to improve their core strength and overall fitness. This simple application comes packed with over 50 high-definition instructional videos, customizable workout plans, and unique daily fitness tips. The app easily allows you to track your progress and share your accomplishments with your friends, too. The Runtastic Six Pack Abs app delivers on its promise, and will have you well on your way to developing defined abs in no-time.

7 Minute Workout (by Perigree)

Available for: iOS and Android

Do you want to commit to a workout program, but never can find the time to hit the gym? Save that membership money and download Pedigree's 7 Minute Workout app instead! This awesome app will push you to your limits for seven minutes a day, providing you with an intensive full-body workout plan that you can complete for seven months or more. If you're interested in unlocking quick workouts for target muscle regions, there are a number of in-app downloads to choose from, all of which are affordable.

This application is perfect for individuals who sometimes slack off from their workout routine, too. The app allows you to program in a number of pre-set reminder messages which are genuinely motivating, rather than nagging.

Whether you're a beginner athlete or a seasoned professional looking to add something to your training routine, you can't go wrong with the 7 Minute Workout.

Charity Miles

Available for: iOS and Android

For workout gurus looking to turn their workouts into good, Charity Miles is an excellent application. This great application turns each mile of your workout into a 10 cent (biking) or 25 cent (running) donation to a charity of your choice. Though the numbers may seem small on an individual scale, this application ultimately seeks to distribute a pool of over $1,000,000 to charities around the world. Best of all, this application is free to use, allowing you to donate to charity without spending a single cent. Regardless of your athletic ability, you can make a difference with Charity Miles.

Nike Training Club

Available for: iOS and Android

For female athletes looking to boost their power, endurance, and stamina, the Nike Training Club application is the best free alternative to a personal trainer. Work out with your favourite female athletes, including tennis star Maria Sharapova. With intensive four-week fitness programs, 15-45 minute full-body workouts, and a catalogue of over 100 unique workouts from world-renowned athletes, this app will keep you on your toes for months to come.

Get Some Headspace

Available for: iOS and Android

Almost all of us have heard that meditation can improve our overall well-being. Getting started with this healthy habit, however, can be a challenge. Headspace changes all of that. Though use of the full application isn't free, users can experience a helpful 10-day trial session that teaches you the basics of meditation and mindfulness. This revolutionary app has even caught the attention of well-known celebrities, including Emma Watson. Are you ready to re-structure your brain, improve your focus, and eliminate anxiety from your life? Headspace is a great place to start.

Though applications cannot replace traditional health education and training altogether, these apps certainly simplify the process of getting fit and improving your well-being. Improve your health; download these apps today.