By JACLYN FRANKS, MPH
Purdue Extension — Kosciusko County, HHS Extension Educator

Jaclyn Franks

WARSAW — Gone are the days of dial-up internet. Many of us are constantly connected to technology by means of our computers, phones, tablets, smart watches, and smart TV’s. The connectivity keeps us updated on news, current events, the Bachelor finale and even our health. There are a number of apps available to help us eat healthy, drink more water, and exercise. Here are some of the most popular free apps to help you live a healthier lifestyle.

Calorie County & Diet Tracker by MyFitnessPal App

This free app has an all around nutrition guide with over 5,000,000 foods and allows you to easily enter foods into the diary with a barcode scanner. It also features fast and easy exercise entry and integrates with over 50 other apps and devices. Connect with other friends using the app for moral support. This app is available for iOS and Android.

MyPlate Calorie Tracker App

This app, free, developed by Livestrong boasts the most user friendly way to track your calories and stay fit on your iOS devices. Their food database has over 2 million items and allows you to personalize your calorie and weight goals and create custom foods and meals. Also you can get personalized real-time 24 hours a day seven days a week support from members of the motivational community and others on a similar journey. This app is available for iOS.

Fitbit App

If you already have a Fitbit, download the free app and sync your tracker Even if you don’t have a Fitbit, the app will still track basic activity and runs on your phone. Log food and water, set goals, manage weight, and share with friends to stay motivated. Initiate challenges with friends to boost your activity level during the day. This app is available for iOS and Android.

Pacer

This is a free pedometer that works right from your phone with no other equipment required. Records steps, calories, distance and active time. It also uses GPS to track your outdoor running, walking, and biking on a map. Stay motivated by connecting with family and friends through the app. This app is available for iOS and Android.

Nike Plus Training Club

This free Nike app is like having a personal trainer in your pocket. Get fit with non-stop motivation and workouts let by Nike pro athletes and Nike Master trainers. Share your workouts with your social networks and add friends through the app. Only download the workouts you want and customize them to choose what is right for your body. This app is available for iOS and Android.

So if you’re trying to be healthier, there’s an app for that. As always, be sure to contact your doctor before beginning any diet or exercise regimen.

For more information about apps to promote a healthy lifestyle, contact Jackie Franks at [email protected] or (574) 372-2340. I would love to hear your stories about how an app has helped you improve your health.