When I was working on a project for one of my classes about gym/physical education adaptations for blind and low vision students, I came across a few resources related to audio workouts and low vision access. One of my friends introduced me to accessible audio workouts a few years ago when they showed me BlindAlive’s Eyes Free Fitness program, which inspired me to learn more about nonvisual exercise programs and ways to follow along with exercise and dance classes without relying on visual cues. Here is a list of free and low-cost options for audio-based exercise programs and audio fitness classes.
Note: Inclusion of an application or service in this list is not an endorsement. The information in this post is based on research and personal experience and is for informational purposes only; information does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning a new exercise program.
Eyes Free Fitness by BlindAlive
Eyes Free Fitness is a free series of audio-based workout guides created by BlindAlive, specifically designed for people with vision loss to exercise at home on their own schedule. Workouts are available on the Eyes Free Fitness & BlindAlive YouTube channel and cover themes such as yoga, pilates, sculpting, cardio, and stretching, with beginner and intermediate levels available. The workouts function like exercise videos, except there are no visuals; only detailed audio cues are used.
Another option for accessing Eyes Free Fitness content offline is to use a YouTube-to-MP3 converter, which enables users to download audio tracks and play them from another device. Users could also use a smart speaker like the Echo Dot as a wireless speaker for playing YouTube videos, so users can control playback with their voice or adjust the volume as needed.
Related links
ReVision Fitness
ReVision Fitness is an audio-based fitness app designed for users with visual impairments as well as sighted audiences, and is available as an iOS/Android app as well as a web application with no downloads required. Created by blind personal trainer and Paralympic athlete Tyler Merren, each of the lessons and workouts incorporate strategies like clock-face directions, reference points, and step-by-step instructions in plain English for teaching proper technique and movement mechanics. The app includes over 100 exercise instructions across categories such as foundational movements, bodyweight exercises, and yoga, as well as structured fitness plans for goals like toning.
Each workout includes a pre-workout overview, beginner and advanced levels, and options for working out with or without music. ReVision Fitness offers a 14-day free trial, after which a subscription costs $5.99 per month or $59.99 per year. I’ve also included a link to Tyler Merren’s YouTube channel, which has several workout videos.
Related links
- ReVision Audio Fitness App
- ReVision Fitness App – App Store
- ReVision Fitness – Apps on Google Play
- ReVision Training LLC – YouTube
Apple Fitness+
Apple Fitness+ is a paid audio and video workout service available on iOS devices, priced at $9.99 per month or $79.99 per year, with Family Sharing included. The library includes HIIT, core workouts, Pilates, yoga, meditation, and more. Apple Fitness+ is compatible with VoiceOver and other assistive technologies, making it a strong option users who want a broad variety of guided workouts with options for using additional equipment such as weights or mats. Some employers and health plans may offer discounted or subsidized access as well.
Related links
- Apple Fitness+ – Apple
- How To Use VoiceOver With Low Vision
- How To Make iPad Accessible for Low Vision
Aaptiv
Aaptiv is a paid audio-forward fitness app available on iOS and Android that offers thousands of on-demand classes led by certified personal trainers, spanning categories such as running, strength training, yoga, cycling, stretching, and meditation. Classes are built around trainer voice guidance and music, and one of my friends really enjoys using this app for nonvisual workouts. There is also an option for AI-powered coaching, which designs personalized routines and provides technique guidance. Aaptiv may also be available through eligible employers and health plans; users can also pay $14.99 USD a month or $99.99 USD a year for an annual subscription.
Related links
- Aaptiv: #1 Audio Fitness App on the App Store (apple.com)
- Gym Classes and Low Vision: My Personal Experiences
Audio described workout playlists on YouTube
Several blind and low vision athletic organizations have published audio described workout playlists on YouTube. These include playlists from Metro Blind Sports, NWABA (Northwest Association for Blind Athletes), and British Blind Sport, among others. These channels covers a wide range of activities including dance aerobics, strength training, cardio, core stability, deep stretching, and seated exercises, with many exercises suitable for beginners
Related links
- British Blind Sport: A Visible Difference Through Sport.
- We Rise | Empowering Blind Athletes Through Sport
- U.S. Association of Blind Athletes – YouTube
- Gentle Exercise – YouTube
- Exercise Challenge – YouTube
- Get Yourself Active – at Home – YouTube
- Inclusive Tennis at Home (lta.org.uk)
- LOOK Active! – YouTube
Fitness and wellness podcasts for blind and low vision audiences
Blind Abilities: Wellness Wednesday
Blind Abilities is a podcast dedicated to helping blind and low vision audiences discover accessible resources across a variety of contexts. The ongoing Wellness Wednesday series features conversations about physical and mental wellness, healthy habits, and staying active. Episodes are available on the Blind Abilities website and through major podcast platforms.
RNIB See Sport Differently
The RNIB See Sport Differently podcast from the Royal National Institute of Blind People covers sport and physical activity for blind and partially sighted listeners, whether as participants or observers. It is available on Audioboom and other podcast platforms.
Related links
Yoga resources
Here are several yoga resources that incorporate detailed descriptions and are designed for audio access:
- Yoga With Aly is led by legally blind yoga teacher Aly Slaughter and features 150+ on-demand audio-described yoga classes emphasizing body awareness, spatial awareness, balance, and motor development. Users can purchase a pass for unlimited classes or purchase a class pass.
- Yoga With Adriene is a popular YouTube channel known for highly descriptive verbal cuing throughout each class, making it easier to follow along without looking at the screen.
- Yoga With Ness is another highly descriptive YouTube channel with free yoga classes.
- YogaDownload offers free and paid audio yoga classes available through Apple Podcasts and other platforms, with a variety of class lengths and themes targeting specific muscle groups.
Related links
- Yoga with Aly
- 20 min. Yoga Sessions from YogaDownload.com on Apple Podcasts
- Yoga With Adriene – YouTube
- Yoga with Ness – YouTube
Creating custom workouts with Amazon Alexa
For those who work with a physical therapist or have a specific set of exercises to follow, Amazon Alexa Skill Blueprints can be used to create personalized audio workout routines. Custom skills can walk through each exercise step by step, making it easy to follow a prescribed routine hands-free.
Related links
Other options for audio workouts and audio fitness programs
- Spotify and Amazon Music offer several playlists for yoga, meditation and other audio workouts in their library. This can include exercise podcasts and guided workouts that are entirely nonvisual, as well as music to listen to during exercise or workouts.
- Wondering how I participated in in-person gym classes and dance classes? Read Gym Classes and Low Vision: My Personal Experiences and Dance Classes and Low Vision
- Some popular workout books and exercise books are available as audiobooks or in accessible formats. I share a few options for reading books with smart speakers in How I Listen To Textbooks With Low Vision
- Want to learn how to describe dance workout videos? Check out How To Describe Dance Choreography Videos For Visually Impaired
- Looking for more audio activities? Check out Audio and Nonvisual Entertainment Ideas For Blind and Low Vision
Published September 23, 2022. Updated October 2023