Best Workout App for Powerlifting
Powerlifters need simple, fast logging without gimmicks. Here's what to look for in a powerlifting app and how the top options compare.
What Powerlifters Actually Need
Powerlifting is about three lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift. Your app should make logging these lifts fast and help you track progress over time. Here's what matters:
Fast Set Logging
You're between sets. You need to log weight and reps in seconds, not navigate through menus. One-tap logging is essential.
PR Tracking
Automatic detection of personal records for each rep range. Know instantly when you hit a 1RM, 3RM, or 5RM PR.
Program Support
Whether you run 5/3/1, GZCL, Starting Strength, or your own program, you need custom routines with flexible set/rep schemes.
Works Offline
Many powerlifting gyms have terrible WiFi. Your app should work without internet, period.
History & Trends
See your lift history over time. Track whether your squat is going up, when you last maxed out, and your all-time PRs.
No Distractions
Powerlifters don't need AI workout generation, social feeds, or gamification. Focus on logging, not scrolling.
Top Powerlifting Apps Compared
| App | Pricing | Custom Programs | PR Tracking | Offline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Next Set | $9.99 once | Unlimited | Automatic | 100% |
| Strong | $99.99 lifetime | Unlimited (Pro) | Yes | Yes |
| Hevy | $74.99 lifetime | Unlimited (Pro) | Yes | Yes |
| RepCount | $29.99/year | Yes | Premium only | Yes |
Why Next Set Works for Powerlifters
Built for Compound Lifts
Next Set's interface is optimized for barbell training. Log your working sets quickly, see your previous performance, and move on. No exercise demos you don't need, no AI trying to change your program.
Run Any Program
5/3/1? GZCL? Texas Method? Your coach's custom program? Create unlimited routines with any set/rep scheme. Next Set doesn't care what program you run—it just logs what you lift.
See Your PRs Instantly
Hit a new 5-rep max? Next Set detects it automatically and shows you right in the workout. No digging through stats pages—your PRs are surfaced when they happen.
Works in Any Gym
Basement gym with no signal? Commercial gym with overloaded WiFi? Next Set works 100% offline. No account required, no login screens—just open and lift.
What About Specialized Powerlifting Apps?
Apps like OpenPowerlifting and Powerlifting Watch are great for competition results and rankings, but they're not workout trackers. For daily training, you need an app that:
- Logs sets and reps quickly during your session
- Tracks your personal progress over months and years
- Supports accessories and variations (paused squats, tempo bench, etc.)
- Doesn't require internet access during training
That's what Next Set and similar workout trackers are designed for—the actual training, not competition stats.
Which App Should You Choose?
Choose Next Set if you...
- Want the lowest one-time price ($9.99)
- Value privacy (no account, no tracking)
- Need 100% offline functionality
- Prefer simple logging over features
- Run your own program or follow a coach
Consider alternatives if you...
- Need Android support (Next Set is iOS only)
- Want social features to share PRs
- Prefer established apps (Strong is 10+ years old)
- Want built-in 1RM calculators and plate math
Try Next Set Free
30-day free trial. Then $9.99 once—no subscriptions.
