Fitness Apps: Motion Traxx

So it’s winter — and it’s gross outside — and as much as you hate it, there you are … on the treadmill.

If you’re nearing death by boredom, and you’ve exhausted your options on Podrunner (which means you’re probably running too much, btw), then jump over to the Motion Traxx app. Motion Traxx is another beats-per-minute collection of workout music — mixed by corporate suit-turned-DJ Deekron — featuring a 12o to 200 BPM range . Podrunner maxes out at 180 BPM, so look to Motion Traxx if you really want to get your heart beating.

The app ($2.99 on iTunes) consolidates all the free podcasts into one convenient place, without making you download the tracks to your device. Because the app streams content, surfing the library for tracks is much faster than waiting for each to download. It’ll also let you speed up the tempo of any mix up to twice as fast. Podcasts are available outside of the app with a free subscription through iTunes.

Motion Traxx has more variety, with mixes as low as the 120 BPM Walker Delight or 128 BPM Disco Stroll, both great for … well … strolling. Most podcasts are ideal for running (especially on the dreaded ‘mill), though Deekron has mixed several spin-specific cycling workouts by the number of revolutions per minute.

If you need even more motivation, or are just starting out, queue up one of the app’s interval workouts. Designed by experienced trainers, and mixed by Deekron, these podcasts will give you cues when to up your pace or the incline level on the treadmill. Just like being back in basic training, eh? It’s a great way to keep yourself interested.

I find Deekron’s mixes a little more entertaining than others I’ve heard; they sound less like they were made in someone’s garage. And I haven’t had any issues with the volume. I did find it funny when someone from Gatorade chimed in halfway through a sponsored mix to remind me to hydrate.

You also, through iTunes, have the option to download playlists of specific workout series: the Treadmill Coach with Amy Dixon ($9.99) or the Speed Zone 200 BPM playlist ($7.99) and Cycle Coach indoor cycling workout ($9.99) and several more.

Sara Davidson is an ultrarunner and our resident women’s gear destroyer.