Honest Comparisons

Compare Arvo to Other Apps

See how Arvo's AI-powered coaching compares to popular workout apps. We break down features, pricing, and what makes each app unique.

How to Choose the Right Workout App

The fitness app market is crowded, but most apps fall into one of three categories: manual loggers (Strong, Hevy), workout generators (Fitbod, Alpha Progression), and AI coaches (Arvo, Dr. Muscle). Understanding these categories helps you choose the right tool for your training style.

Manual loggers are great if you already have a program and just need to track sets. Workout generators create programs for you but typically don't adapt during the session. AI coaches like Arvo go further—they adjust every set based on your real-time performance, managing progressive overload and fatigue automatically.

When comparing apps, consider: Does it support your training methodology? Can it adapt to daily performance fluctuations? Does it track volume scientifically? Is the price justified by the features? The answers vary significantly between apps, which is why we've created detailed comparisons for each.

Quick Feature Comparison

FeatureArvoFitbodHevyStrongAlpha ProgDr. MuscleJuggernaut
AI Recommendations--
Set-by-Set Adaptation------
Training Methodologies (5+)------
Volume Tracking (MEV/MAV/MRV)------
AI Support Chat-----
RIR/RPE Support
Offline Mode-
Price€6/mo$12.99$9.99$4.99€9.99$48.99$35

* Arvo is currently free during beta. Post-beta price: €6/month.

Detailed Comparisons

Arvo vs Fitbod

AI-Generated Workouts

Compare Arvo's set-by-set AI coaching to Fitbod's workout-level recommendations. See which app offers better AI adaptation, volume tracking, and methodology support.

Arvo Advantages:

  • Set-by-set AI adjustments vs workout-level
  • Multiple training methodologies (Kuba, Mentzer, FST-7)
  • Real-time weight suggestions based on RIR/RPE
  • MEV/MAV/MRV volume tracking
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Hevy

Manual Workout Logging

Compare AI-powered coaching to manual tracking. See how Arvo's intelligent recommendations compare to Hevy's logging-focused approach.

Arvo Advantages:

  • AI tells you what weight to use next
  • Automatic workout generation
  • Progressive overload recommendations
  • No manual programming required
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Strong

Minimalist Workout Tracker

Compare AI coaching to minimalist logging. Strong focuses on simplicity while Arvo provides intelligent guidance for every set.

Arvo Advantages:

  • Active coaching vs passive logging
  • Automatic progression suggestions
  • Science-based methodology support
  • Volume and intensity management
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Juggernaut AI

Powerlifting-Focused App

Compare methodology variety to powerlifting-specific programming. See how Arvo's versatility compares to Juggernaut AI's specialized approach.

Arvo Advantages:

  • 5 methodologies vs 1 (hypertrophy + strength)
  • €6/month vs $35/month
  • Set-by-set adaptation vs block periodization
  • Beginner-friendly with Lite mode
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Personal Trainer

Human Coaching Alternative

Compare AI coaching to traditional personal training. See the cost savings and 24/7 availability of AI vs human trainers.

Arvo Advantages:

  • €6/month vs €600-1800/month
  • 24/7 availability, no scheduling
  • Consistent methodology adherence
  • Complete progress tracking & analysis
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Alpha Progression

AI Workout Plan Generator

Both apps use AI, but differently. Compare Arvo's set-by-set adaptation to Alpha Progression's workout-level recommendations.

Arvo Advantages:

  • Set-by-set AI adaptation vs pre-workout
  • 5 methodologies vs generic periodization
  • €6/mo vs €9.99/mo (40% cheaper)
  • MEV/MAV/MRV volume tracking
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Dr. Muscle

Premium AI Trainer ($48/mo)

Two AI trainers, one massive price difference. Dr. Muscle costs $48/month. Arvo costs €6/month. Compare what you get.

Arvo Advantages:

  • €6/mo vs $48/mo (8x cheaper)
  • 5 methodologies vs DUP only
  • Full offline AI functionality
  • More features at fraction of price
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Boostcamp

Reddit Programs Library

Fixed programs vs adaptive AI. Boostcamp delivers pre-made programs. Arvo adapts to your daily performance.

Arvo Advantages:

  • AI adapts every set to you
  • No fixed program to follow
  • Automatic fatigue management
  • MEV/MAV/MRV volume science
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs JEFIT

Legacy Workout Logger

Next-gen AI coaching vs decade-old logging. JEFIT records your workouts. Arvo coaches them intelligently.

Arvo Advantages:

  • AI coaching vs passive logging
  • Weight suggestions every set
  • €6/mo vs $12.99/mo Elite
  • Modern architecture & offline AI
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs TrainHeroic

Coach Platform ($500+/yr)

Individual AI coaching vs coach delivery platform. Different approaches for different needs.

Arvo Advantages:

  • €6/mo vs $500+/yr for coaches
  • AI adapts without human coach
  • Stripe payments included
  • No team subscription needed
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs TrueCoach

Coach Delivery Platform

AI-powered coaching vs coach delivery platform. See how Arvo for Trainers compares to TrueCoach for personal trainers.

Arvo Advantages:

  • AI generates programs automatically
  • €8/client vs $19-49/mo flat rate
  • Set-by-set adaptation for clients
  • 5+ training methodologies built-in
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Trainerize

Branded PT App Builder

AI coaching vs white-label app platform. Compare Arvo's AI programming with Trainerize's branded app features.

Arvo Advantages:

  • AI creates programs instantly
  • €8/client vs complex pricing tiers
  • Scientific volume tracking included
  • No app development needed
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs My PT Hub

Budget PT Software

AI-powered coaching vs budget PT management. See how Arvo's AI compares to My PT Hub's free tier.

Arvo Advantages:

  • AI generates personalized programs
  • €8/client with full AI features
  • MEV/MAV/MRV volume science
  • Scales without limitations
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs PTMinder

PT Business Management

AI coaching platform vs business management software. Different tools for different needs in the PT business.

Arvo Advantages:

  • Focus on AI programming excellence
  • €8/client for training features
  • Scientific methodology support
  • Seamless client experience
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs MacroFactor

Perfect Companion App

Not competitors—complementary apps. MacroFactor handles nutrition, Arvo handles training. Together, they're the complete fitness stack.

Arvo Advantages:

  • Arvo for training, MacroFactor for nutrition
  • Both use smart adaptive algorithms
  • Both are science-based approaches
  • ~€12-18/mo combined for complete fitness
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Freeletics

Bodyweight HIIT App

Gym-based AI hypertrophy coaching vs bodyweight HIIT training. Different approaches for different training environments.

Arvo Advantages:

  • Gym-based progressive overload
  • Per-set weight suggestions
  • MEV/MAV/MRV volume tracking
  • 5 hypertrophy methodologies
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Nike Training Club

Free Workout Library

AI personalized coaching vs static workout library. Arvo adapts to YOU while NTC gives everyone the same workouts.

Arvo Advantages:

  • AI adapts every set to your performance
  • Progressive overload tracking
  • Volume management per muscle
  • Personalized weight suggestions
Read Full Comparison

Arvo vs Gymshark Training

Influencer Programs

AI personalized coaching vs celebrity programs. Arvo adapts to YOUR capabilities, not a one-size-fits-all influencer plan.

Arvo Advantages:

  • AI adapts to YOUR strength levels
  • Set-by-set weight suggestions
  • Science-based methodologies
  • MEV/MAV/MRV volume tracking
Read Full Comparison
The New Benchmark

Arvo Defines Set-by-Set AI Coaching

While other apps generate workouts or log exercises, Arvo pioneered real-time AI adaptation during training. Here's what sets the new standard:

Set-by-Set Intelligence

Every single set gets AI-powered weight recommendations based on your real-time performance, fatigue, and recent history. Not workout-level. Set-level.

Scientific Volume Management

MEV, MAV, and MRV tracking per muscle group ensures optimal stimulus without overtraining. Backed by peer-reviewed volume research.

Methodology Fidelity

Kuba, Mentzer HIT, FST-7, Y3T, DC Training—each method implemented exactly as designed by its creator. Not generic programming labeled with a name.

In-Workout Adaptation

Bad day? Great day? Arvo adjusts mid-session. Other apps give you the same plan regardless of how you're actually performing.

Why Users Switch to Arvo

True AI Coaching

Every set adapts to your performance. Not just workout generation—real-time intelligence.

Scientific Volume

MEV/MAV/MRV tracking ensures optimal stimulus without overtraining. Science, not guesswork.

Methodology Fidelity

Kuba, Mentzer HIT, FST-7, Y3T, Mountain Dog—trained exactly as designed by their creators.

24/7 AI Support

Ask Arvo anything about your training. It knows your PRs, volume, split, and coach notes in real-time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best workout app for bodybuilding?
For bodybuilding, you need an app that tracks volume by muscle group, supports hypertrophy-focused methodologies, and manages progressive overload. Arvo excels here with MEV/MAV/MRV tracking, support for bodybuilding methods like Kuba and FST-7, and set-by-set AI adaptation that ensures optimal stimulus without overtraining.
Is AI workout coaching worth it?
AI coaching is worth it if you want intelligent guidance without the cost of a personal trainer. Basic workout generators create static plans. True AI coaches like Arvo analyze each set and adjust recommendations in real-time—similar to having a knowledgeable training partner who tracks everything and never forgets your history.
Should I use a free or paid fitness app?
Free apps are fine for basic logging, but they typically lack intelligent progression, volume tracking, and methodology support. If you're serious about results, a paid app with proper AI coaching (€6-15/month) delivers far more value than the cost. Compare this to personal trainers at €200-500/month for similar guidance.
What features should I look for in a gym app?
Essential features: accurate exercise database, progressive overload tracking, volume management, rest timer, and workout history. Advanced features that separate good apps from great: AI-powered weight suggestions, methodology support (not just generic programming), RIR/RPE tracking, and the ability to adapt within a session based on performance.
Can I switch workout apps without losing my data?
Most apps allow data export, though formats vary. When switching to Arvo, you can start fresh—the AI will quickly learn your strength levels within 1-2 sessions. Your first few workouts help Arvo calibrate its recommendations to your actual performance, making historical data less critical than with static programs.
Free During Beta

Not Sure Which App is Right?

Try Arvo free during beta. Experience AI coaching that adapts to every set, manages your volume automatically, and follows proven methodologies.

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