Arvo vs Gymshark Training
Free brand app vs. paid AI coach. Gymshark costs nothing. Is Arvo worth €6/month? Let's find out.
Quick Summary
Arvo
Best for serious training
- AI adapts every set
- 5 training methodologies
- MEV/MAV/MRV tracking
- €6/mo for full AI coaching
Gymshark Training
Best for casual workouts
- 100% free, no ads
- Clean premium design
- Influencer workouts
- No AI or progression logic
Important: Gymshark Training was discontinued on Android in October 2025. iOS users can still use it, but the app's future is uncertain.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Arvo | Gymshark |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (beta) / €6/mo | 100% Free |
| AI Coaching | 20 specialized agents | None |
| Weight Suggestions | AI-calculated per set | Manual only |
| Training Methodologies | 5 complete systems | None |
| Exercise Database | 1300+ with biomechanics | 700+ with videos |
| Volume Tracking | MEV/MAV/MRV automatic | Basic tracking |
| PR Tracking | All exercises | Squat, Bench, Deadlift only |
| Workout Library | AI-generated | Pre-made + custom |
| Design Quality | Modern, functional | Premium brand design |
| Offline Mode | Full AI functionality | Yes |
| Fatigue Management | Automatic deload triggers | None |
| Drop Sets | Full support | Not supported |
| Android Support | Yes | Discontinued (Oct 2025) |
Key Differences
Free vs Paid
Gymshark is completely free - no subscriptions, no ads. It's a marketing tool for their clothing. Arvo costs €6/month but provides actual coaching intelligence. You get what you pay for.
Intelligence Gap
Gymshark has zero AI. No weight suggestions, no fatigue management, no adaptation. Arvo uses 20 AI agents to coach every set. The gap in training intelligence is massive.
Target Audience
Gymshark is designed for beginners and casual gym-goers who want simple, influencer-led workouts. Arvo is for anyone who wants intelligent coaching - from beginners (Lite mode) to advanced lifters (full methodology support).
Long-term Value
Gymshark doesn't help you progress - it just lets you log. Arvo actively drives your progress with intelligent volume management, automatic deloads, and methodology-based programming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Gymshark Training app good?
Gymshark Training is a solid free app with 700+ exercises, pre-made workouts, and clean design. It's great for beginners who want structured workouts. However, it lacks AI, progressive overload tracking, and methodology support that serious lifters need.
Is Arvo worth paying for over free Gymshark?
If you're a beginner doing basic workouts, Gymshark is fine. If you want intelligent coaching that adapts to your performance, suggests weights, tracks volume scientifically, and implements proven methodologies - Arvo's €6/month is worth it.
Does Gymshark Training have AI?
No. Gymshark Training is a workout library and tracker. You choose workouts and log them manually. There's no AI to adapt to your performance, suggest weights, or manage your training intelligently.
Why is Gymshark Training free?
Gymshark Training is a marketing tool for Gymshark's clothing brand. It builds brand loyalty and engagement. The app itself doesn't need to make money directly. This is why it's feature-limited compared to dedicated fitness apps.
Can I track progressive overload on Gymshark?
Gymshark tracks your PRs on key lifts (squat, bench, deadlift) but doesn't have intelligent progressive overload. It won't suggest when to increase weight or manage your progression. Arvo's AI handles progressive overload automatically.
Which app is better for beginners?
Both work for beginners. Gymshark has influencer-led workouts that are easy to follow. Arvo has a Lite mode that simplifies AI coaching. The difference: Gymshark stays basic forever; Arvo grows with you as you advance.
Ready for Intelligent Training?
Free apps have limits. Arvo's AI coaching is worth €6/month if you're serious about progress. Try it free during beta.
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