Strong vs Hevy
Strong and Hevy are the two most-downloaded strength-training trackers on iOS. Both log lifts cleanly. Both sync to Apple Health. The differences are about everything that isn't the lift screen — social feed, programs, exports, free-tier limits. Here's a neutral breakdown, then we'll show you the third option most lifters end up at.
| Criterion | Strong | Hevy | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free-tier limits | 3 routines, unlimited workouts | Unlimited routines + workouts | Hevy |
| Social feed | None | Full feed + likes | Hevy |
| Programs library | Pro tier only | Free, large community library | Hevy |
| Logging speed | Industry-leading | Fast, slightly more taps | Strong |
| Apple Watch app | Polished | Decent | Strong |
| Cardio + nutrition | Neither | Neither | Tie |
| Anatomy heatmap | — | Basic muscle highlight | Hevy |
| Price (paid tier) | $4.99/mo Pro | $5/mo Pro | Tie |
Verdict
Hevy wins the free tier + social. Strong wins the watch + logging-speed polish. If you only lift, pick Hevy. If you also run, eat, sleep, and want one app for all of it, Ascend covers strength + cardio + nutrition + anatomy heatmap + AI coach in a single climb — free for the core, NZ$12.99/mo for Club.
See the full 10-app matrix
26 capabilities × 10 apps. Side-by-side.
View comparison