Strength log · Apple Watch · Lifetime option
A StrongLifts 5x5 alternative
for when one program isn't the whole plan.
StrongLifts is a very good way to start barbell training. It gives you one proven program, picks every weight, and resets you when you stall. GymLogger X is a different tool: a free iPhone log with an Apple Watch app, a free 5×5 to start on, and periodized programs and plateau signals for when you outgrow it. Pro is a subscription or $39.99 once.
How does GymLogger X compare to StrongLifts 5x5?
StrongLifts automates one style of program very well. GymLogger X runs many programs and leaves the weight choices to you.
Who picks the weight
GymLogger X: You do. Each set row shows last time's numbers and the target.
StrongLifts: The app adds weight when you complete your sets and deloads you after repeated failures.
StrongLifts: The app adds weight when you complete your sets and deloads you after repeated failures.
Programs
GymLogger X: A free linear 5×5, 38 more ready-made programs with Pro, and a free Smart Program Creator with periodization and deload weeks (one program at a time; unlimited with Pro).
StrongLifts: StrongLifts 5×5 and its variations, an intermediate 5×5, and Madcow 5×5.
StrongLifts: StrongLifts 5×5 and its variations, an intermediate 5×5, and Madcow 5×5.
Apple Watch
GymLogger X: A free Watch app. Start the workout on the iPhone, then log weight and reps, run the rest timer, and see live heart rate on the wrist.
StrongLifts: One-tap set logging, rest notifications, warm-up and plate calculators, and heart rate.
StrongLifts: One-tap set logging, rest notifications, warm-up and plate calculators, and heart rate.
Pricing
GymLogger X: Free logging; Pro $1.99/mo, $17.99/yr, or $39.99 lifetime.
StrongLifts: Subscription required to use the app: $11.99/mo or $59.99/yr on the US App Store.
StrongLifts: Subscription required to use the app: $11.99/mo or $59.99/yr on the US App Store.
GymLogger X vs StrongLifts 5x5, feature by feature
StrongLifts details checked against its App Store listing, its app page, and its support site on 25 October 2026. Prices are US App Store prices and change; check your own storefront.
| Feature | GymLogger X | StrongLifts 5x5 |
|---|---|---|
| Platforms | iPhone, with an Apple Watch app | iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Android |
| Use without paying | Yes: logging is free | 7-day trial on the yearly plan, then a subscription is required |
| 5×5 programs | Linear 5×5 Foundation free; other 5×5-style programs and the Texas Method in Pro | StrongLifts 5×5 variations, 5×5 Intermediate, and Madcow 5×5 |
| Automatic weight increases | No: each set row shows last time's numbers and the target | Yes, with adjustable increments |
| Deloads | Deload weeks in generated programs; insert one in your own program or mark any past session as one | Automatic weight reset after repeated failed workouts, and suggested after breaks |
| Periodized program builder | Six split types; linear, undulating, block, or wave (free, one program at a time; unlimited with Pro) | Not advertised; custom programs can be built by hand |
| Plateau detection | Pro: a status for each lift (Plateau, Watching, or Plateau Predicted) | Stalls handled by the automatic deload |
| Apple Watch | Free: set logging, rest timer, live heart rate; the workout starts on the iPhone | Set logging, rest notifications, warm-up and plate calculators, and heart rate |
| Privacy | No account, and no ads or third-party analytics | App Store label: Data Not Linked to You (purchases, identifiers, usage, diagnostics) |
| Pricing | Free; Pro $1.99/mo, $17.99/yr, or $39.99 lifetime | $11.99/mo, $29.99/quarter, or $59.99/yr; five-year option listed |
Who should pick GymLogger X vs StrongLifts 5x5?
Pick GymLogger X if…
- You want to log for free, or pay once ($39.99) rather than subscribe
- You expect to move past 5×5 to other programs, or to periodized programs with planned deload weeks
- You'd rather choose your own weight increases
- You want a plateau status for each lift from your own logs (Pro)
- You want an app with no account that keeps your workouts on your devices and your own iCloud
Stick with StrongLifts if…
- You want the app to choose every weight and reset you after a stall
- 5×5 is the program you plan to run, and you like its variations
- You value its form videos and warm-up and plate calculators on the Watch
- You train on Android or iPad as well as iPhone
- You already have years of history in it
About GymLogger X
Questions
FAQ
Is there a StrongLifts 5x5 alternative without a subscription?
GymLogger X doesn't require one. Logging is free, and Pro is $1.99 a month or $17.99 a year, each starting with a 7-day free trial, or $39.99 once. StrongLifts' US App Store listing says the app is free to download but needs a subscription to use, with Pro at $11.99 a month, $29.99 a quarter, or $59.99 a year, plus a five-year option. Check the App Store for current prices in your country.
Can I run a 5x5 program in GymLogger X?
Yes. Linear 5×5 Foundation is one of the 6 free programs: two alternating workouts, three days a week, five sets of five on every lift except the deadlift, which gets one heavy set. Pro adds other 5×5-style programs such as Intermediate 5×5 Ramp, Heavy / Light / Medium 5×5, and the Texas Method, along with programs that have nothing to do with 5×5.
Does GymLogger X add weight automatically like StrongLifts?
No. StrongLifts adds weight when you complete all your sets and lowers it automatically after repeated failed workouts, with the increment and the deload amount under your control. GymLogger X shows the weight and reps you used last time and the target, and leaves the next increase to you. If you want the app to decide every weight, StrongLifts does that better.
Do both apps work on Apple Watch?
Yes. StrongLifts' Watch app logs sets with one tap, runs rest timer notifications, has warm-up and plate calculators, and shows heart rate and workout duration. GymLogger X's Watch app is free: you start the workout on the iPhone, then log each set's weight and reps, run the rest timer, and see live heart rate on the wrist.
What does GymLogger X do beyond 5x5?
Its Smart Program Creator (free, one program at a time; unlimited with Pro) builds full body, upper/lower, push/pull/legs, push/pull, Arnold, and bro split programs around your equipment, goals, injuries, and schedule, with linear, undulating, block, or wave periodization, and its preview shows the deload weeks. Pro adds 38 ready-made programs, from push/pull/legs to the Conjugate Method and a 6-week peaking block, plus Insights: a plateau status for each lift, readiness, fatigue, and muscle balance from your own logs.
Which is better for a complete beginner?
For someone who wants to start barbell training with no decisions to make, StrongLifts is hard to beat: one program, weights chosen for you, form videos, and automatic resets. GymLogger X suits beginners who want a free log, a free linear 5×5 to start on, and room to move to other programs later without switching apps.
Try it
Open GymLogger X.
Free logging on iPhone and Apple Watch, a free 5×5 to start on, and Pro as a subscription or $39.99 once.
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