Apple Kicks Off 2024 with Exciting Enhancements to Fitness+ Service

Apple is beginning the year on a high note with a slew of enticing updates to its Fitness+ service. These enhancements encompass an array of new features, including a meditative segment with auditory elements, a yoga sequence tailored for golf enthusiasts, a spotlight series on musical greats who have graced the Super Bowl, and fresh celebrity contributions to the auditory walking journey called “Time to Walk.”

On January 8, Fitness+ is introducing "Sound" as a novel meditation theme. This theme is designed to offer auditory relaxation through calming sounds, ranging from the subtle strikes of a gong to the harmonious tones of a singing bowl. At its initiation, Fitness+ will provide seven distinct sounds, with the intention to release new meditation sessions weekly. These soundscapes are crafted to cater to varied durations—five, ten, or twenty minutes—to suit the needs of different users.

Apple has acknowledged the synergy between yoga and golf, particularly how it enhances a golfer’s swing, by unveiling the “Strength, Core, and Yoga for Golfers” program. Specially curated by pro golfer Rose Zhang, this regimen aims to bolster strength, increase flexibility, and promote mobility. Fitness+ trainer Kyle Ardill helms this program, which includes four comprehensive workouts.

The Fitness+ service is also paying homage to Super Bowl Halftime Show icons, beginning February 5, with an artist spotlight dedicated to multi-talent Usher, along with tributes to previous performers like Rihanna, Britney Spears, and U2. In recognition of last year’s Apple Music-sponsored Super Bowl, Rihanna's historic halftime show that captivated over 113 million spectators — the highest view count in history for a Super Bowl performance — will be commemorated with a dedicated playlist of 10 workouts debuting on the platform.

Continuing the musical celebrations, workouts featuring Britney Spears hits will become available on January 15, followed by sessions inspired by U2 on January 22.

Adding a narrative touch to physical activities, “Time to Walk” presents captivating stories from a range of influential figures. Newly unveiled episodes will star personalities such as “Today Show” co-anchor Al Roker, renowned drag performer Trixie Mattel, comedic talent and YouTuber Lilly Singh, multifaceted actor and musician Common, and “Euphoria” standout Colman Domingo.

For anyone who wants to sample these inspiring narratives, Apple unveils that ten select "Time to Walk" episodes will be accessible for free on Apple Podcasts. This lineup features conversations with notable names like Prince William, Patti LaBelle, Jason Segel, Camila Cabello, Dolly Parton, and Shawn Mendes.

Fitness+ offers its services at a subscription rate of $9.99 monthly or bundled with the Apple One Premier plan, priced at $32.95 monthly. Moreover, a recent collaboration between Apple and Anytime Fitness grants gym members up to three months of complimentary access to Fitness+, enhancing the appeal and reach of Apple's health and fitness offerings.