Arvo vs MacroFactor
Training AI vs. Nutrition AI. Different problems, different solutions. Here's how they compare - and why you might want both.
Key insight: These apps aren't competitors - they're complementary. Arvo coaches your workouts. MacroFactor coaches your nutrition.
Quick Summary
Arvo
AI Workout Coach
- Programs your workouts
- Suggests weights every set
- Tracks volume & fatigue
- No nutrition tracking
MacroFactor
Smart Nutrition Tracker
- Adaptive calorie targets
- Smart macro adjustments
- Easy food logging
- No workout features
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Arvo | MacroFactor |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | AI Workout Coaching | Nutrition Tracking |
| Workout Programming | Full AI-generated | None |
| Exercise Logging | 1300+ exercises | None |
| Calorie Tracking | None | Adaptive algorithm |
| Macro Management | None | Dynamic weekly adjustments |
| AI/Algorithms | 20 workout agents | TDEE algorithm |
| Weight Suggestions | Per set, real-time | N/A |
| Food Logging | None | Barcode + AI photo |
| Volume Tracking | MEV/MAV/MRV | None |
| Price | Free (beta) / €6/mo | $6-12/mo |
| Offline Mode | Full functionality | Limited |
| Apple Watch | Coming soon | Yes |
| Science-Backed | Yes | Yes (Stronger By Science) |
Why They Work Well Together
Complete Coverage
Results come from training + nutrition. MacroFactor optimizes what you eat. Arvo optimizes how you train. Together, they cover both pillars of fitness progress.
Both Use Smart Algorithms
MacroFactor adjusts your calories based on weight trends (not just formulas). Arvo adjusts your training based on performance (not just progressive overload). Both adapt to YOU, not generic templates.
Science-Based Approaches
MacroFactor is built by the Stronger By Science team with evidence-based algorithms. Arvo implements proven methodologies (Kuba, Mentzer, FST-7) with AI optimization. Both prioritize science over bro-science.
Affordable Combined Cost
MacroFactor: ~$6-12/month. Arvo: €6/month (free during beta). Total: ~€12-18/month for complete fitness management. Less than a single personal training session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MacroFactor a workout app?
No. MacroFactor is a nutrition and macro tracking app created by Greg Nuckols and the Stronger By Science team. It tracks calories, adjusts macros based on your weight trends, but doesn't track workouts. For workout tracking and coaching, you need an app like Arvo.
Can I use Arvo and MacroFactor together?
Yes! They're complementary. MacroFactor handles your nutrition with adaptive algorithms. Arvo handles your training with AI coaching. Together they cover both sides of fitness: what you eat and how you train.
Which app should I get first?
Depends on your weak point. If your training is inconsistent or you don't know what to do in the gym, start with Arvo. If your diet is all over the place, start with MacroFactor. Ideally, use both for comprehensive fitness tracking.
Does MacroFactor have workout features?
MacroFactor has expenditure tracking and Apple Watch integration for activity, but no workout programming, exercise logging, or strength tracking. It's purely focused on nutrition. Arvo fills this gap with complete workout management.
How much do both apps cost together?
MacroFactor: ~$6-12/month depending on plan. Arvo: €6/month (free during beta). Combined: ~€12-18/month for complete training + nutrition management. That's less than a single personal training session.
Is Arvo better than MacroFactor?
They're not competitors - they do different things. Arvo is an AI workout coach. MacroFactor is a nutrition tracker. Asking which is better is like asking whether sleep or exercise is more important. Both matter for results.
Ready to Optimize Your Training?
MacroFactor handles your nutrition. Let Arvo handle your workouts. AI coaching that adapts to you. Free during beta.
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