With so many exercise programs and related apps geared towards experienced athletes looking for an edge, it’s nice to find a clean, simple, well-thought-out app for the beginner in need of motivation. The Couch-to-5K app takes the exercise novice by the hand and leads him/her from their living room sofa to the finish line of their very first 5K race.

The training workouts are layered and varied, allowing users to spice up runs with music and chart their routes via GPS to track distance and pace. A seamless integration with social media allows participants to share progress and encourage each other through Twitter and Facebook. And the app incorporates three different personal trainers (lithe ladies Constance & Billie, and no-nonsense Sergeant Block), each with their own motivational messages and advice. The trainers slowly increase the difficulty of the workouts as the runner progresses.

Individual training sessions last roughly 30 minutes, and the recommended program is three times a week for a total of nine weeks. As a neat bonus, after users complete the program, they’re eligible to receive discounts off select 5K race registrations in their area which they can conveniently register for through the app. Cheers to Couch-to-5K for removing every roadblock from getting in shape!