Monetizing Fitness Apps – Turning Features into Profit in 2025

The fitness app market is constantly growing in Western Europe, Scandinavia, the USA, and the Middle East alike. Now is the best time to turn your app into a profitable business, especially in high-demand areas like personalized training and AI-driven coaching. Millions of users rely on mobile apps for workouts, nutrition tracking, and motivation. But are they willing to pay? The answer depends on how you monetize your app.

The secret is finding the strategy that aligns with your audience and maximizes your earning potential. We’ll look at the best ways to make money from fitness apps in 2025. 

How can a mobile app become a money-making machine?

Building a fitness app is just the beginning. Many app monetization platforms owners assume that simply getting downloads will lead to profit. But in fact, success comes from having the right monetization strategy. 

Are people actually willing to pay for apps?

The rise of in-app purchases and subscriptions proves that users value convenience and personalization. Would your target audience pay for customized workouts, advanced analytics, or one-on-one coaching? If your app offers personalized workout plans, real-time progress tracking, or access to expert coaching, users will see the value in investing in it.

1. Freemium model – make money from a free app with premium perks

What’s the freemium model, and why does it work so well?

The freemium model is one of the most effective ways to make money from mobile apps. Users get a basic version of your app for free but need to pay for additional features, exclusive content, or advanced functionalities.

How to convince users to upgrade to your premium version?

The secret is offering enough value in the free version while making premium features irresistible. Limited workouts, exclusive content, and personalized training plans can encourage users to upgrade.

Real-world examples: how freemium works in fitness apps

Successful fitness apps like MyFitnessPal and Strava offer free basic features but charge for advanced analytics, coaching, and customization. Their freemium approach keeps users engaged while generating steady revenue.

Are you thinking about growing your business? Discover how a custom mobile app can benefit you — check out our article on fitness app monetization to learn more about the advantages and opportunities it can bring. 

2. Mobile ads – earn every time someone sees your app

If you want to make money from a free app without charging users, mobile ads are a great option. But not all ads work the same way.

Which ad model pays better: Cost Per Mile (CPM) or Cost Per Click (CPC)?

CPM pays based on views, while CPC pays per click. If your app has high traffic but low engagement, CPM might be the better choice. However, if users actively interact with ads, CPC can bring in more revenue.

How to use ads without driving your users crazy

The challenge with ads is keeping them non-intrusive. Banner ads, rewarded videos, and native ads work better than aggressive pop-ups that disrupt the user experience. Nobody wants to see a cat food ad in the middle of their workout.

Apps making bank with ads (and how they do it)

Apps like Adidas Running and Nike Training Club incorporate ads strategically, ensuring they enhance rather than ruin the user experience.

3. Paid versions & subscriptions – get recurring revenue from users

Charging upfront for a paid app or offering a subscription gives you a steady, predictable income. Tiered pricing plans can help you cater to different user needs and maximize revenue potential.

Paid app or subscription—what’s better for your business?

One-time payments work well for niche apps, but subscriptions generate recurring revenue. Fitness apps thrive on subscriptions because users want ongoing value. Consider your content and engagement; if users require fresh workouts and guidance, a subscription is the way to go. Does your app offer lasting value without frequent updates? Then a one-time payment might be the better choice.

How to create real value users are happy to pay for

Exclusive workouts, AI-powered training plans, and personalized coaching can make users feel they’re getting their money’s worth. Focus on features that solve real problems and improve each user's experience. Also, keep in mind that regular updates and new content keep your community engaged and justify the ongoing cost.

Popular subscription-based apps that are killing it (especially in your niche)

Peloton and Centr have great subscription models, offering premium content that keeps users coming back. They provide a mix of workouts, coaching, and personalized plans to keep users engaged

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Creating your own mobile app could be the game-changer you need — explore how we can help you bring your idea to life with our software development services.

4. Sponsorships – marketing partnerships, cross-promotions, or full-on collaborations?

Big brands are always looking for new ways to reach fitness enthusiasts. Strong partnerships can build trust and attract more paying members to your platform.

How to attract the right sponsor for your fitness app

If your app has a strong user base, brands may be willing to pay for visibility. Focus on partnerships that align with your audience’s interests. Point out your app’s engagement, demographics, and unique value to make it appealing to potential sponsors.

Sponsorship strategies: what works best for your business?

Product placements, sponsored challenges, and branded workouts can seamlessly integrate sponsorships into your app. They allow sponsors to connect with users naturally, without disrupting the experience. Choosing the right sponsors ensures the partnership feels relevant and valuable to your audience.

Examples of apps making money through sponsorships

Apps like Fitbit and Freeletics collaborate with fitness brands to boost revenue and enhance the user experience. These partnerships often include branded challenges, exclusive content, and product integrations.

Wondering whether to build your own solution or invest in an existing one? Make an informed decision by reading our article on Building vs Buying Software — and find out which approach best fits your business goals.

5. Affiliate & partnership programs – make money through referrals

Affiliate marketing is another smart way to monetize a fitness app. By promoting products and earning a commission on sales, you can generate passive income. Choose brands that align with your audience to keep recommendations relevant and trustworthy. For example, a yoga app could partner with a premium mat brand, earning a commission on every purchase made through the app.

How does affiliate marketing actually work in apps?

You promote fitness-related products, and when users purchase through your app, you earn a percentage of the sale. Tracking links or discount codes help ensure you get credit for each sale made through your app. This works well with anything that your users truly need: supplements, gear, and online fitness programs.

Apps winning big with affiliate partnerships (and what you can learn from them)

Apps like Sweatcoin and 8fit partner with brands to offer exclusive discounts, earning commissions on every sale.  This strategy not only drives revenue but also adds value for users by giving them special deals.

So, which monetization strategy is the best fit for your fitness app?

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to app monetization. The best strategy depends on your app’s target audience, value proposition, and long-term goals.

At Qodeca, we want to help you turn your fitness app idea into a profitable business. Whether you're launching your first app or scaling an existing one, we know what works. Let’s build something that people love – and that makes you money!