Returning to the gym after illness: beginner programme, tracking improvements and app suggestions. Thank you.

[NoNotMeAtAll]

After a long period of illness, both physical and mental, I’m about to return to the gym.
My fitness level is very low right now, so I will be taking it slowly.

If anyone has recommendations for beginner-friendly programmes, apps, or ways to track progress, I’d really appreciate it.

I’m especially looking for something that helps build a sense of achievement along the way.

Hi OP, well done for getting back to the gym! I’m still recovering from mental and physical challenges but hope to get back there one day! I’ve used the Sweat app in the past. Really easy to use, plenty of beginner’s programmes, timer function for reps etc. I liked the way it told you exactly what to do and you could track each exercise and record your weights. I only stopped using it because I joined a gym with small group PT sessions instead (until I became too ill to continue). Good luck!!!

Thank you for replying. I will have a look. I have the Nike app but not sure if this has gym programmes. I use it at home with small dumbbells.

I just want something that tracks easily. Almost pen and paper …😆 10 reps this week, 12 the next, or whatever.

I've recently returned to the gym and I use chatgpt. I asked for a program, explained what I like and what my limitations are and it came up with one for me. I've found it really helpful and I'm now going 3 times a week. There are probably apps out there but this is free and I like being able to ask for feedback.
Good luck, I hope you find something that works for you.

Thank you and hope it all goes well for you too. I will try ChatGPT

I am still looking for something to track my progress.

He’s a bit marmite but have you looked at Joe wicks? His app is really good but he also has loads of free content on YouTube

You can buy notebooks with printed grids for exactly this. I use one - v straightforward!

Thanks - almost pen and paper but for my phone.

I am useless at even remembering but the time I have arrived home, how many reps completed, weights lifted or miles ran.

You can type these into the Sweat app as you do them - it allows you to record weights and reps. But if you want a pure tracker rather than suggested programmes then there are a few on App Store - I just typed in gym tracker and they came up. Hopefully you can find one that works for you.