It's slowly starting to get warmer as spring starts to break, so what better time to get back in the fitness groove? Check out this round-up of four apps to help you keep active in the big city this spring (because summer is right around the corner).
Guava Pass
Price Free download, then 1,088RMB per month
Apple or Android? Both
Ease of use 5/5
What is it? This app gives you access to a substantial list of gym classes without having to sign up for membership at any particular gym or studio. Available in countries across Asia, it allows you to book classes up to ten days in advance and even an hour before class starts. You can also hold onto an unlimited number of classes in Shanghai. It is very easy to navigate this popular app, which shows classes in a neat calendar format. Downsides are that it’s actually pretty pricey to be a member, largely down to its flexibility and the fact that it’s quite comprehensive.
MapMyRide
Price Free download, some additional options come at a price
Apple or Android? Both
Ease of use 4/5
What is it? Fairly straightforward to sign up to, MapMyRide is an app that lets you track where you’ve been cycling and for how long. It’s free to download, and allows you to follow a series of mapped routes around the city, or create your own, and track your journey. About 20 routes around Shanghai are available to follow immediately – including some running routes – and by linking with other friends on the app, you can share routes and join ‘challenges’. You can also link particular routes to music and your own playlists, which is pretty nifty. Should you wish to, you can also log your food consumption to rate calories burned or consumed. To be honest though, the beauty of the app is exploring new parts of the city by bike, and sharing a love of two-wheeled travel.
MindBody
Price Free download, then you pay for sessions selected
Apple or Android? Both
Ease of use 5/5
What is it? This app is great if you are a frequent traveller and need a one-stop app to fulfil your health and wellness needs. MindBody is available in 130 countries, and on the main screen, you can select from the three sections of fitness, wellness and beauty. After selecting, you’re directed to a second page that lists an extensive array of subcategories for venues and options for classes and gyms. The results can then be filtered based on ratings or distance, and you can book directly through the app. But while there is a wide list of subcategories, disappointingly Shanghai doesn’t currently have services in all of them.
Pocket Yoga
Price 2.99USD
Apple or Android? Both
Ease of use 5/5
What is it? This nifty little app is a yoga studio, coach and teacher all bundled up into your phone or mobile device and ready when you want them. The app has a library that features every pose with full pictures and a detailed description to illustrate which body parts are doing the work. Routines are also outlined by using a series of easy-to-follow pictures, and each practice can be ranked by difficulty level and type of pose. With their sister app Pocket Yoga Practice Builder, you can also create, edit and share complete yoga practices, building up an app-based community around your practice.
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