TrainersBookHow to choose a personal trainer app
A practical checklist for comparing coaching apps, written by the team behind TrainersBook. We are one of the options, so weigh our view accordingly.
Start with how you coach
The best app is the one that matches your work. An online coach with fifty clients needs different things from a gym-floor trainer with fifteen. Write down what you do in a normal week before you look at feature lists.
Ten things to compare
- Client experience. Try logging a workout as a client. If it is annoying, they will stop.
- Programming speed. How fast can you build and reuse a program?
- Exercise library. How large is it, and can you add your own?
- Nutrition. Built in, or a separate app?
- Messaging. Groups, scheduled check-ins and video feedback?
- Progress tracking. Can clients see it?
- AI. What does it actually do, and who approves the result?
- Teams. Is there an overview for several trainers?
- Data. Where is client data stored, and can clients export it?
- Total cost. Price at your client count, including add-ons.
The main options
- Trainerize: established, with a broad feature set.
- TrueCoach: known for simple strength programming.
- My PT Hub, Everfit and PT Distinction: other commonly compared coaching platforms.
- TrainersBook: a phone-first app with programs, nutrition, messaging, progress and AI in one place. Not launched yet.
- Spreadsheets and chat: free and flexible, but the follow-up work stays with you.
This list reflects public review sites and product pages as of November 2026. Features and prices change, so confirm them with each vendor.
Try before you commit
Most vendors let you test before paying. Run one real client through the app for two weeks before moving everyone.
Common questions
What app do personal trainers use?
Commonly compared apps include Trainerize, TrueCoach, My PT Hub, Everfit and PT Distinction. Many trainers still use spreadsheets and chat. TrainersBook is a new option launching on iPhone and Android.
Do personal trainers need an app?
Not at the start. A spreadsheet works for a few clients. An app starts paying off when follow-up takes more time than you can spare.