Arvo vs Strong
AI-powered coaching vs minimalist workout logging. Choose intelligence or simplicity.
Quick Summary
Arvo
AI-powered coaching
- Tells you what weight to use
- Generates complete workouts
- Implements training methodologies
- Perfect for beginners & pros
Strong
Simple workout logger
- Minimal, clean interface
- Apple Watch app
- Reliable, fast logging
- No AI or recommendations
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Arvo | Strong |
|---|---|---|
| AI Recommendations | 20 specialized agents | None |
| Workout Generation | AI-generated workouts | Manual only |
| Weight Suggestions | Set-by-set recommendations | Shows previous weight |
| Training Methodologies | 5 implementations | None |
| Volume Tracking | MEV/MAV/MRV | Basic totals |
| Stripe Payments (Coach) | Full integration | No |
| Google Calendar Sync | Two-way sync | No |
| Strava Import | Auto-import cardio | No |
| Interface Simplicity | Feature-rich | Minimal, focused |
| Plate Calculator | Built-in | Built-in |
| Apple Watch | Not yet | Full support |
| Exercise Database | 1300+ exercises | 300+ exercises |
| Price | Free (beta) / €6/mo | Free tier / $4.99/mo |
Key Differences
Philosophy
Strong believes in staying out of your way—it's a digital notebook. Arvo believes in active coaching—it's a virtual trainer.
Decision Making
With Strong, you decide everything. With Arvo, AI handles progression, exercise selection, and volume management automatically.
Best For
Strong: Experienced lifters who follow their own programming. Arvo: Anyone who wants intelligent guidance and automatic optimization.
Value Proposition
Strong is a well-made journal. Arvo is a complete coaching system. Different tools for different needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arvo better than Strong?
For lifters who want AI recommendations and automatic progression, yes. Strong is a simple, reliable logger that's great if you already know exactly what to do. Arvo adds intelligence; Strong stays out of your way.
Is Strong free?
Strong has a free tier limited to 3 custom routines. Strong Pro costs $4.99/month or $29.99/year. Arvo is free during beta and will cost €6/month with unlimited features and AI coaching.
Does Strong have AI features?
No. Strong is purely a workout logger. It doesn't suggest weights, create workouts, or implement training methodologies. Arvo's entire value proposition is AI-powered coaching.
Which app is better for beginners?
Arvo. It tells you exactly what to do and adjusts based on your performance. Strong requires you to know what program to follow and how to progress. Arvo's Lite mode is designed specifically for beginners.
Can I import my Strong data into Arvo?
Direct import isn't available yet. However, Arvo's AI learns quickly from your performance. Within 2-3 workouts, it calibrates to your strength levels without needing historical data.
Ready for Intelligent Training?
Upgrade from logging to coaching. Arvo handles the science so you can focus on the effort.
Start Free Trial