If you’re a plus-size guy just getting started on your fitness journey, chances are you’ve Googled “best workout app for beginners” more than once—and probably landed on names like Fitocracy, Strong, and MyFitnessPal. But which one actually supports bigger bodies, real-world consistency, and sustainable progress?
This guide breaks it down—no fluff, no intimidation, just real talk—to help you figure out which fitness app fits your goals (and your body).
Fitocracy, Strong, and MyFitnessPal Overview
| App | Best For | What It Lacks |
|---|---|---|
| Fitocracy | Gamified workouts + social encouragement | Outdated UI, low activity in 2025 |
| Strong | Simple strength training logging | No real community or coaching |
| MyFitnessPal | Calorie tracking + food logging | Can trigger obsessive tracking for some |
Fitocracy: The OG of Fitness Gamification
Once the king of turning workouts into a game, Fitocracy was all about points, badges, and social challenges. For plus-size beginners, the gamified experience could feel super rewarding—especially if you’re just trying to build a habit.
✅ What works for bigger guys:
- Friendly, low-pressure leaderboard system
- Encouragement from others who get it (if you can find them)
- Challenges that reward consistency, not perfection
❌ Where it falls short in 2025:
- Many communities are inactive or ghosted
- The app hasn’t been meaningfully updated in years
- Lack of structured guidance or progression for heavy lifters
Bottom line: Great if you love point systems and self-motivation—but the lack of updates and community might leave you feeling stuck.
Related: The Power of Accountability: How to Build a Supportive Fitness Community
Strong: No-Nonsense Lifting Tracker
Strong is like the no-BS gym buddy who just wants to log sets and move iron. It’s fast, reliable, and ultra-focused on strength training. If you’re a big guy who’s just starting to get into barbell work or machines, this might be the cleanest experience available.
✅ What works for bigger guys:
- Tracks rest time, PRs, and progressive overload
- Custom workout builder lets you create joint-friendly routines
- Minimal design—no distractions
❌ Where it falls short:
- No built-in coaching or guidance
- No supportive community or accountability
- Purely performance-focused, not holistic
Bottom line: Strong is perfect for tracking progress if you already know what you’re doing—or have a coach helping you behind the scenes.
Related: Progressive Overload for Bigger Bodies: How to Continuously Build Strength Safely
MyFitnessPal: The Food-First Approach
When it comes to nutrition, MyFitnessPal is still one of the most well-known apps on the planet. It’s got a massive food database, barcode scanning, and calorie/macro tracking—but for bigger guys just starting out, it can feel… overwhelming.
✅ What works for bigger guys:
- Easy food logging, including meals from restaurants
- Syncs with tons of fitness wearables
- Helps build awareness of portion sizes and patterns
❌ Where it falls short:
- Can encourage obsessive logging or under-eating
- Lacks context for strength goals vs. weight loss goals
- Not tailored to plus-size bodies or strength-based progress
Bottom line: A powerful tool—if you use it with the right mindset. Otherwise, it can quickly turn into a mental trap.
Related: Nutrition for Plus Size Men: A Complete Guide to Fueling Strength, Performance, and Fat Loss
Which One’s Right for You?
If you’re a bigger beginner focused on building confidence, strength, and sustainable habits, here’s the real advice:
- Choose Fitocracy if you’re motivated by badges and want a gamified start—but double-check if the community is still active in your niche.
- Choose Strong if you’re lifting weights and want to keep it simple and track your numbers—just make sure you have guidance elsewhere.
- Choose MyFitnessPal if you want help with nutrition awareness—but stay grounded in body-positivity and avoid hyper-focusing on calorie deficits.
You’re the Variable That Matters Most
Apps are tools—not magic wands. No app can guarantee transformation. What does move the needle is showing up, staying consistent, and building a mindset that supports your body at every stage.
Whether you use Fitocracy, Strong, MyFitnessPal—or none of the above—the key is to stay connected to your “why” and surround yourself with resources that actually serve your lifestyle.
Leave a comment