Fitness cards are a relatively new item in the fitness world, and are replacing the gym for many people. Fitness cards are essentially a deck of cards, each with a different exercise or movement printed on it. Users draw cards to determine what workout to do, and perform according to the cards’ directions. Part exercise, part game, fitness cards bring some fun and excitement to the fitness experience.


One of the main draws to fitness cards is that they offer a dynamic workout experience. Unlike spending a mindless hour on the treadmill or weight lifting machines at the gym, you can literally enjoy a different workout every day with a deck of fitness cards. Some might see this like having a personal trainer in your pocket, since trainers continuously try to get their clients to work different muscles and try new exercises.

Even if you draw the same fitness cards 10 days in a row, you can use them in different ways. For example, one day you might choose to use each card for 3 minutes each. Assuming you drew 20 cards, this would get you an hour workout. If you had less time the following day, that same workout could be cut down to 20 minutes. You can change the time, order and intensity of any cards you choose and wind up with a different custom workout every day of the week.

Fitness cards also grow remain useful regardless of your fitness level, letting them “grow” with your strength and endurance. For example, FitDeck’s fitness cards offer 3 intensity levels. The beginner or basic version of an exercise might only require you do 8 repetitions. As an intermediate, that number might increase to 12 or 14 repetitions. Experts using that same fitness card will be asked to do 20 reps instead.

Even in the event an exercise becomes too easy, all you have to do is keep drawing cards to get a challenge. The different fitness levels listed on these cards also makes it easier than ever to work out with a friend who has different fitness needs. Exercise is no fun when one of you constantly has to struggle to keep up with the other, so having access to separate but equal training can make things more enjoyable.


For casual exercise, using fitness cards can easily replace the gym. So long as you’re working out regularly and continuing to challenge your body, exactly what you’re doing isn’t nearly as important. Considering a single month of gym fees (even without a trainer or premium options) is equal to or more expensive than the cost of a deck of fitness cards, users can expect to see a nice savings over time. Adding the cost of traveling to and from the gym, extra travel time, buying workout clothes you don’t mind being seen in, and so on, these savings become even more significant.

Even with all the potential bonuses of using fitness cards, there are still some drawbacks to consider. First and foremost, working out with a fitness deck will require willpower on your part. It’s only too easy to fudge your way through a card’s assigned exercise, or skip over it altogether. Motivation and willpower are huge issues for people who don’t already work out frequently, who are also the most likely to enjoy using fitness cards. Depending on the fitness deck you choose, you may also be required to purchase additional equipment such as kettlebells or a yoga mat.

If you’ve grown bored with your current workout or just can’t stand to keep paying a gym membership, pick up a deck of fitness cards. Aside from a few pounds, what have you got to lose?