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How much does it cost to make a fitness app?

How much does it cost to make a fitness app?

Posted by Tyler Spraul, Certified Strength and Conditioning SpecialistĀ® (CSCSĀ®) on May 29, 2023 ā€” Updated on February 3, 2024

The cost to make a fitness app from scratch can range from $50,000 for an initial build to $100,000 or more for a full-functional fitness app. With an Exercise.com custom branded fitness app, the cost of a fitness app is much cheaper, and you get your fitness app much faster.

How much does it cost to make a fitness app?

With Exercise.com’s best white label fitness app software, you can easily create a fitness app as part of the platform, eliminating the high costs of starting from scratch. Your biggest responsibility will be to create the fitness content that goes into your appā€”which, really, should be your primary differentiator. Read on to get more details on the cost to make a workout app, and then learn how to make money selling workouts online, or learn how to run a fitness challenge online, or many other ways that you can make money from fitness and monetize your fitness app using the best apps for selling workout programs online.

Fitness Income Ideas

Many aspiring fitness entrepreneurs are wondering how much it costs to start a fitness app. In this article, we will dive into fitness app development costs and explore the costs associated with launching and running a fitness app.

Core Online Mobile Fitness App
“My custom-branded apps have made my life easier and helped streamline my online training, which in turn has transformed into a pretty awesome additional revenue stream for me and my family.”
Tony Gentilcore
Founder, Core Online

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Fitness App Development Cost Comparison

The following table compares the average cost and time required for fitness app development from scratch versus using Exercise.com for a custom branded fitness app.

AspectDeveloping a Fitness App from ScratchUsing Exercise.com for a Custom Branded Fitness App
Cost
Initial Development$50,000 – $100,000 or more (often much more)Included in Exercise.com subscription
Ongoing MaintenanceVaries, can be several thousand dollars per yearIncluded in Exercise.com subscription
Feature UpdatesAdditional costs for each updateRegular updates included in Exercise.com subscription
Time
Development Timeframe6-12 months or longerImmediate availability (as fast as you can provide your colors, logo, and fitness content and the App Store can approve your app! )
Time to MarketSignificantly longerMuch quicker, as the platform is already established
Features
CustomizationFully customizable (at a cost)Custom branding options available
Updates & ImprovementsDependent on developer availability and budgetContinuous updates provided
Support & MaintenanceOften outsourced at additional costComprehensive support included

Key Takeaways

  1. Cost Efficiency: Using Exercise.com is significantly more cost-effective. Development from scratch requires a substantial initial investment and ongoing costs, while Exercise.com offers a custom branded app as part of its subscription service.
  2. Time Efficiency: Development from scratch can take 6-12 months or more, whereas Exercise.com provides immediate access to a custom branded app. This allows for a quicker launch and faster time to market.
  3. Ongoing Support and Updates: Exercise.com includes regular updates and support as part of the subscription, whereas developing an app from scratch requires ongoing maintenance and updates, often at an additional cost.
  4. Customization and Branding: While developing from scratch allows for complete customization, Exercise.com also offers robust customization and branding options, making it a viable alternative for those seeking a personalized app experience without the high cost and time commitment.

For fitness professionals, personal trainers, gym owners, or yoga studio owners (learn how to make a yoga app) using Exercise.com for a custom branded fitness app presents a more economical and efficient solution compared to the considerable investment of time and resources required for developing an app from scratch.

The development of a fitness app involves various costs and considerations, especially when deciding between creating an app from scratch and opting for a platform like Exercise.com. Understanding the average cost of fitness app development and the time involved is crucial for making an informed decision.

Des B Fit
I am grateful to have been able to create an app for my online family to grow with, and be able to support a business that I believe in.
Desiree Pfeifer
CEO, DBFT LLC

Get a demo now!

Fitness App Development Cost Comparison

When considering the creation of a fitness app, it’s important to understand the average cost of fitness app development. This cost can be quite substantial, particularly when developing a fitness app from scratch.

Average Cost of Fitness App Development

The average cost to develop a fitness app typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 or more. This range includes various factors such as design, functionality, testing, and launch of the app. It’s a significant investment, especially for individual trainers or small fitness businesses.

Cost to Develop Fitness App from Scratch

The cost of developing a fitness app on your own can skyrocket beyond the initial development phase. Continuous updates, bug fixes, maintenance, and additional feature integrations add to the ongoing expenses. For those looking to create their own fitness app, these costs can pose a substantial financial challenge over time.

Comparing Costs with Exercise.com

In contrast, using a service like Exercise.com can dramatically reduce these costs. Exercise.com offers a custom-branded fitness app within its subscription model, significantly lowering the cost to make an exercise app. This approach not only minimizes upfront development costs but also covers ongoing maintenance and updates.

How Much Does It Cost to Create a Fitness App with Exercise.com

Opting for Exercise.comā€™s service to create a fitness app presents a more budget-friendly solution. The subscription encompasses the cost to develop a fitness app, along with continuous support and updates, at a fraction of the cost of independent development. It eliminates the unpredictable expenses associated with the traditional app development process.

The fitness app development cost comparison between creating an app independently and using Exercise.com’s platform is stark. For those contemplating how much it costs to create a fitness app, Exercise.com offers a financially viable and time-efficient alternative, ensuring that fitness professionals can have their custom-branded app without the daunting investment and technical challenges of starting from scratch.

Jimmy Myers Relentless Sports Performance
If you want to offer an elite service for the end user you need to get with the times and use elite level software that is intuitive, visually appealing, and effective. That is exactly what Exercise.com delivers to its clients.
Jimmy Myers
Owner/Trainer, Relentless Sports Performance

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Get Your Own Fitness App (Low Cost)

Exercise.com is fully aware of the unique identities and requirements of different fitness businesses, and is committed to providing a cost-effective solution. The platform gives you the opportunity to fully tailor your app to fit your brand. You have the power to personalize everything ā€“ from logos and color schemes to the app’s functionality and content. This eliminates the high costs associated with custom software development, giving you control over your app’s appearance and operations, all while being budget-friendly. This positions Exercise.com as a financially sensible choice in maintaining your unique brand identity in the fitness industry.

Mobile Fitness App Guided Logger

Exercise.com is the best fitness app builder software for fitness professionals who want a low cost and affordable custom branded fitness app. Exercise.com allows fitness professionals to have full control over their brand and learn how to make a fitness app quickly and easily, while ensuring a personalized and consistent experience for their clients.

Exercise.com is a comprehensive platform with the best fitness software for influencers, the best personal training software, and the best gym management software so no matter what type of fitness business you have, it simplifies the process and amplifies your earning potential while also helping you run fitness challenges, create online workout groups, do fitness livestreaming, do in-person and online training, and more, all through your own custom-branded fitness apps. With its ability to create, market, and sell personalized workout plans to a vast audience, Exercise.com can help transform your fitness passion into a lucrative online fitness business.

Our overall experience with Exercise.com is a breeze. We love how easy it is to integrate this app with our current workflow while providing great fitness programs for our customers and save us time in the process.
Julie Ledbetter
Owner, Ledbetter Fitness

Want to create your own custom branded fitness apps? Get a demo now!

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How to Create a Fitness App

Let’s get right to some practical ways that you can create your own affordable fitness apps with the Exercise.com white labeled fitness app software tools. With the Exercise.com platform you have a number of options to run a comprehensive online fitness experience for your community, all custom branded with your own fitness branding.

You can sell workout plans, run fitness challenges, offer access (paid) to an online workout group, you can sell online training sessions, sell a membership to your own custom branded fitness app, offer mobile workout logging in your own workout apps, and much more. Here are some easy things you can do with the Exercise.com software platform.

Use the Exercise.com workout plan creator to create your workout plans.

Workout Plan Creator

Then mark them for sale online so you can sell workout plans easily and quickly.

Sell Workout Plans

Publish your custom branded fitness apps so you can offer a premium workout logging experience to your community.

Custom Branded Apps

Your fitness followers will be able to search your name in the App Store and Google Play Store and then download your fitness app (no more instructing your followers to search for some other company’s nameā€”start building your own fitness brand with your very own custom-branded fitness app!) Go here to search fitness app name ideas.

Monarch Athletic Club Fitness App - App Store

Your community can open up your fitness app and view their daily journal to log workouts, watch fitness videos, complete their daily habits, and more.

Mobile Fitness App

Create your own exercise demonstration videos or use the Exercise.com exercise video library to create a professional workout logging experience that your community will love and be happy to pay for (no more emailing around cobbled together PDF documents that people will just copy and share). Charge real money for a top notch fitness app that you will feel good about.

Mobile Fitness App Guided Logger

You can send messages to your community with email, SMS, and in-app messaging right inside of your own custom branded fitness apps, and you can even set up powerful fitness marketing automations to send messages automatically based on key triggers.

Gym Marketing Automations

You can easily run your own virtual fitness challenges.

Challenges

And create online workout groups, do distance training, sell workout plans online, time-release workouts in your apps, offer habit tracking, deliver nutrition guides, and much, much more, all right within your own fitness apps, and branded under your own fitness brand.

Online Groups
Dean Somerset - Bird Dog
“Developing an easy intake system with my apps and ways to scale the delivery of workouts has been huge. Working with 20-30 individuals who each have specific goals and restrictions can be challenging, but your platform makes it easy to organize everyoneā€™s programs and put a plan together that will get them the best results possible. The simple, effective tools help expand and simplify my coaching process.”
Dean Somerset
Owner, Somerset Fitness

Ready to get started? Get a demo now!

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Understanding the Basics of a Fitness App

Fitness apps have revolutionized the way people engage with their health and wellness goals. These digital tools help users track their progress, plan their workouts and meals, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Before discussing the costs, it’s essential to understand what a fitness app is and what it does. A fitness app is a digital tool that helps users track and manage their fitness activities. Some popular features in a fitness app include:

  • Workout and meal planners
  • Calorie and macronutrient tracking
  • Goal setting and progress tracking
  • Social networking and community building

Types of Fitness Apps

There are several different types of fitness apps, each with its own focus and user base. Some of the most popular types include:

  • General fitness apps
  • Yoga and meditation apps
  • Running and cardio apps
  • Weightlifting and strength training apps

Key Features of a Fitness App

While the specific features of a fitness app may vary depending on the type, there are some key features that all successful fitness apps should possess, including:

  • User-friendly interface and design
  • Customizable workout and meal plans
  • Progress tracking and analytics
  • Social networking and community building

Initial Costs of Developing a Fitness App

Developing a fitness app requires a lot of work and resources. There are several different areas where costs may accrue during the development process, including:

App Design and User Interface

The user interface of an app is one of the most critical components. The overall design should be intuitive and easy to navigate. Designing an app is an iterative process, meaning it requires a lot of time and effort from designers and developers. A well-designed app can make all the difference in user experience and can lead to higher engagement and retention rates. It is important to consider the user journey and create a seamless experience from start to finish. This involves thorough testing and user feedback to make necessary adjustments.

Backend Development

The backend development of an app includes creating a database, server infrastructure, and API for communicating between the app and the server. This process is essential for ensuring that the app runs smoothly and handles user data securely. The cost of backend development can vary depending on the complexity of the app and the amount of data it needs to handle. It is important to invest in reliable and scalable infrastructure to accommodate future growth.

Third-Party Integrations

The development of third-party integrations in an app may accrue additional costs. For example, if your app requires integration with wearable devices or social media platforms, this may come with additional fees or time-consuming development. However, these integrations can greatly enhance the user experience and add value to the app. It is important to consider the potential benefits and weigh them against the costs.

Custom Features and Functionality

If your app requires custom features, such as augmented reality for virtual fitness classes, the cost of development would significantly increase. Custom features require specialized expertise and may require additional time and resources to develop. However, these features can set your app apart from competitors and provide unique value to users. It is important to carefully consider the cost-benefit analysis of custom features and prioritize those that align with your overall business objectives.

In conclusion, developing a fitness app requires careful consideration of various factors that can impact the cost and success of the app. It is important to invest in high-quality design, reliable infrastructure, and valuable features to provide a seamless and engaging user experience.

Des B Fit
I am grateful to have been able to create an app for my online family to grow with, and be able to support a business that I believe in.
Desiree Pfeifer
CEO, DBFT LLC

Get a demo now!

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Ongoing Costs of Running a Fitness App

If you successfully develop a fitness app, the work doesn’t end there. Running a fitness app requires regular maintenance and updates to keep it up to date and secure. While the initial development costs can be significant, the ongoing costs of running a fitness app can also add up quickly. Here are some of the ongoing costs you can expect to incur:

App Maintenance and Updates

To ensure that your app runs smoothly and stays up to date, you’ll need to pay recurring costs for app maintenance and updates. This includes fixing any bugs or glitches that users may encounter and adding new features to keep your app competitive. Depending on the complexity of your app, these costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per month.

Server and Infrastructure Costs

Your app will require a server and infrastructure to run on. You’ll need to pay the monthly fee for this and any additional server costs required to store user data securely. The cost of server and infrastructure can vary depending on the size of your user base and the amount of data you need to store. As your user base grows, you may need to upgrade your server and infrastructure to handle the increased traffic, which can be a significant expense.

Marketing and User Acquisition

Marketing your app and acquiring customers is a significant ongoing expense. With so many fitness apps on the market, it can be challenging to stand out and attract new users. Some popular ways to market a fitness app include social media ads, influencer marketing, and email marketing campaigns. However, these marketing strategies can be costly, and it may take some trial and error to find the most effective approach for your app.

Customer Support and Community Management

Providing customer support and managing your app’s community is important to retain customers and build a loyal user base. This includes responding to user inquiries and feedback, as well as moderating user-generated content. Depending on the size of your user base, you may need to hire a dedicated customer support team to handle these tasks. Additionally, building a community around your app can be time-consuming and require ongoing engagement with your users.

In conclusion, running a fitness app can be a rewarding business venture, but it’s important to be aware of the ongoing costs involved. By budgeting for these expenses and planning for the long-term, you can ensure that your app remains competitive and successful in the ever-growing fitness app market.

Monetization Strategies for Fitness Apps

Monetizing a fitness app is essential to reap financial rewards and sustain the app. With the increasing demand for fitness apps, it is important to have a monetization strategy in place to generate revenue and keep the app running. Here are some popular strategies for monetizing fitness apps:

Subscription Models

The subscription model involves charging users to access premium features and content. This can include personalized workout and meal plans, advanced analytics, and access to exclusive content. Subscription models are a popular monetization strategy for fitness apps as they provide a predictable, recurring revenue stream. Users are willing to pay a monthly or yearly fee for access to premium features that can help them achieve their fitness goals.

For instance, a fitness app can offer a basic version of the app for free, but charge a monthly fee for access to personalized workout plans, meal plans, and advanced analytics. This model not only generates revenue but also helps to retain users by providing them with valuable content and features that they can’t find elsewhere.

In-App Purchases

In-app purchases allow users to buy additional features or content within the app, such as digital training programs or access to premium content. This model is effective for fitness apps that offer a range of features and content. Users can purchase additional features as they need them, rather than paying for a subscription that they may not fully utilize.

For example, a fitness app can offer a free version of the app with limited features, but users can purchase additional workout plans or access to premium content for a one-time fee.

Advertising and Sponsorships

Advertising and sponsorships from relevant companies and brands can provide a source of revenue for your app while also promoting related products through the app. This model works best for fitness apps that have a large user base and can attract advertisers and sponsors.

For instance, a fitness app can partner with fitness equipment companies, supplement companies, or sports apparel brands to promote their products through the app. This can be done through banner ads, sponsored posts, or product placements.

Partnerships and Affiliates

Cross-promoting with other businesses and affiliates can provide a mutually beneficial source of revenue for both parties. This model works best for fitness apps that have a specific niche or target audience.

For example, a fitness app that focuses on yoga can partner with a yoga equipment company to promote their products through the app. The app can earn a commission for each sale made through the app, while the equipment company can reach a targeted audience of yoga enthusiasts.

There are several effective ways to monetize a fitness app. Each strategy has its own benefits and drawbacks, and it’s important to choose a model that aligns with the goals of your app and the needs of your users. By implementing a successful monetization strategy, you can generate revenue and sustain your app for the long term.

What is the average cost to develop a fitness app?

The cost to develop a fitness app can range widely depending on the complexity of the app, the features you want to include, and whether you’re building it from scratch or using an existing platform. It can range from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars if you’re building a highly complex app from scratch. However, with Exercise.com, you get a cost-effective solution that allows you to build a customized and feature-rich fitness app without breaking the bank.

Is there a way to reduce the costs of making a fitness app?

Yes, using a platform like Exercise.com significantly reduces the cost of creating a fitness app. Instead of paying for expensive custom development, Exercise.com provides a customizable platform that allows you to create a feature-rich app at a fraction of the cost.

How much does it cost to maintain a fitness app?

The cost to maintain a fitness app can also vary widely depending on the complexity of the app, the number of users, and the type of features it includes. Maintenance can include things like server costs, bug fixes, updates, and adding new features. With Exercise.com, much of this maintenance is included in your subscription, making it a more cost-effective solution.

How much does it cost to create a workout app?

The cost to create a workout app can vary widely, typically ranging from $20,000 to over $100,000, depending on several factors such as the complexity of the features, the level of customization, platform compatibility (iOS, Android, or both), and the rates of the development team. Key cost drivers include app design, functionality (such as video streaming, workout tracking, social integration), backend infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance and updates.

For fitness professionals looking to avoid these high upfront costs and technical complexities, using a platform like Exercise.com is a more cost-effective and efficient solution. Exercise.com allows you to have your own custom-branded fitness app without the hefty investment or need for technical expertise, providing all the necessary features to manage and grow your fitness business effectively.

Within the custom-branded workout app provided by Exercise.com, the workout logging and workout creating components stand out as key features that enhance both the trainer and client experience. The workout creation tool allows fitness professionals to design and distribute personalized workout plans directly to their clients’ devices, complete with detailed instructions, video demonstrations, and tailored recommendations. Clients can then log their workouts within the app, tracking their progress, setting personal records, and providing feedback in real time. This seamless integration of workout creation and logging not only streamlines the training process but also fosters a more engaged and motivated client base, all under the umbrella of your custom-branded workout app.

Does the cost to create a fitness app include custom branding?

Custom branding is an important aspect of creating a fitness app, but it’s often not included in the base cost of development. With Exercise.com, however, custom branding is included. This means you can have an app that reflects your brand without having to pay extra for it.

Why is using Exercise.com a cost-effective solution for creating a fitness app?

Exercise.com is a cost-effective solution because it offers a customizable platform with a variety of features tailored for fitness businesses. You don’t have to pay for expensive custom development or worry about costly maintenance. With Exercise.com, you get a feature-rich, custom-branded fitness app at a fraction of the cost of developing an app from scratch.

What is the cost to build a custom workout and training app?

The cost to build a custom workout and training app depends on the complexity of the app, the features you want to include, and the rates of the software development team you hire. It can range from a few thousand to several hundred thousand dollars. However, using Exercise.com significantly reduces this cost, offering a customizable platform to create a workout and training app with your branding and desired features at a fraction of the cost.

How much does it cost to build a fitness app like Hevy, MyFitnessPal, SWEAT, etc.?

Building a fitness app like Hevy, MyFitnessPal, or SWEAT involves significant investment as these are feature-rich apps with sophisticated technology. It can cost anywhere from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. But, by using Exercise.com, you can develop an app with similar features and functionality at a far more reasonable cost.

What are the costs associated with creating and running a fitness app?

The costs of creating and running a fitness app include initial development costs, app maintenance, server costs, updates, and marketing expenses. However, using a platform like Exercise.com helps minimize these costs. It provides a cost-effective solution for fitness app development and also includes maintenance as part of the subscription.

What is the difference in fitness app development costs in the US vs UK, Australia, etc.?

The cost of app development can vary significantly depending on the region. Typically, development costs in the US are higher than in other countries due to higher labor costs. However, regardless of where you are, using Exercise.com can save you money. It offers a robust and customizable platform for developing a fitness app without the high costs associated with custom development.

How long does it take to develop a fitness app?

The development time for a fitness app varies widely based on its complexity, features, and the development process used. A basic app with minimal features might take a few months, while a more complex app with advanced features and customizations could take six months to a year or more. Factors like the development team’s expertise, testing, and iterations also influence the timeline.

Is it possible to create a fitness app for free?

Creating a fitness app entirely for free is challenging, especially if you want a quality product. While there are free app development tools and templates available, they are often limited in functionality. Investing in professional development or using platforms with a nominal fee can significantly enhance the quality and functionality of the app.

Read More: How to Make a Fitness App

What are the best fitness app development companies?

Some of the best fitness app development companies include:

  • Savvy Apps: Known for creating user-friendly and engaging apps.
  • Applico: Specializes in feature-rich fitness apps.
  • Space-O Technologies: Offers custom app development with a focus on health and fitness.
  • Exercise.com: Provides comprehensive fitness app development services tailored to fitness professionals and businesses.

Read More: Best Fitness App Development Companies

Can I use fitness app templates?

Yes, you can use fitness app templates as a starting point for app development. These templates provide a basic structure and design, which can save time and resources. However, for a more customized and unique app, additional development and customization will be necessary. Templates are ideal for simple apps or for those with limited development resources.

Read More:

The Bottom Line

Developing and running a successful fitness app is a significant investment in both time and money. However, the potential rewards can be significant. Understanding the costs associated with developing and running a fitness app are crucial for business planning and budgeting. By considering all the costs and revenue streams, you can better position yourself for success in the competitive fitness industry.

One major cost to consider is the development of the app itself. This can involve hiring a team of developers, designers, and testers to create a high-quality product. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and updates will be necessary to ensure that the app remains functional and up-to-date with the latest technology.

Marketing and advertising costs are another important consideration. Without effective marketing, your app may struggle to gain traction in a crowded marketplace. This can involve advertising on social media, search engines, and other platforms to reach your target audience.

Customer support is also a crucial aspect of running a successful fitness app. Users will expect prompt and helpful responses to their questions and concerns, which may require hiring a dedicated support team or outsourcing to a third-party provider.

Revenue streams for fitness apps can come from a variety of sources, including in-app purchases, subscriptions, and advertising. It’s important to carefully consider which revenue streams will be most effective for your app and to continually evaluate and adjust your strategy as needed.

In addition to these costs and revenue streams, it’s important to consider the competitive landscape of the fitness app industry. There are many established players in this space, and it can be challenging to differentiate your app and stand out from the crowd.

However, with careful planning, execution, and ongoing evaluation, it is possible to develop and run a successful fitness app. By understanding the costs and revenue streams involved, as well as the competitive landscape, you can position yourself for success and help users achieve their fitness goals.

Read More:

Des B Fit
I am grateful to have been able to create an app for my online family to grow with, and be able to support a business that I believe in.
Desiree Pfeifer
CEO, DBFT LLC

Choose the Best Fitness App Software Tool

See why Exercise.com is the best choice for fitness influencers, personal trainers, gym owners, and fitness professionals who want to create fitness apps and grow their fitness business online and in-person. Are you ready to create your own custom-branded fitness apps?

Get a demo now!

Tyler Spraul is the director of UX and the head trainer for Exercise.com. He has his Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medicine and is an NSCA-Certified Strength and Conditioning SpecialistĀ® (CSCSĀ®). He is a former All-American soccer player and still coaches soccer today. In his free time, he enjoys reading, learning, and living the dad life.
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