Is Stronglifts no longer free
Look, it's not exactly black and white. The original StrongLifts 5x5 routine—the core workout and how to do it—is still out there for free on the official site. But here's the thing: StrongLifts LLC has really pushed their paid stuff lately. The free version? It's bare bones now, with ads everywhere. If you want the full deal—the official app with progress tracking, warm-up calculations, deload warnings, all that fancy stuff—you're paying a subscription. So yeah, the basic knowledge is free. The convenient tool to actually use it? That costs money.
What is the current pricing model for StrongLifts?
It's a freemium thing now. Free tier gets you the core 5x5 program description, a basic workout log, and simple progress tracking on the website. Then there's StrongLifts Plus—or Pro, whatever—which is a subscription app for iOS and Android. Runs you about $9.99 a month or $59.99 a year. That unlocks automatic weight calculations, a deload assistant, rest timer, warm-up calculator, and a nicer interface. The website itself has ads for free users. Kinda feels like they're squeezing you, honestly.
| Feature | Free Version | Paid Subscription |
|---|---|---|
| Core 5x5 Program Description | Yes | Yes |
| Basic Workout Log | Yes | Yes |
| Progress Tracking | Basic | Advanced |
| Automatic Weight Progression | No | Yes |
| Deload Assistance | No | Yes |
| Rest Timer | No | Yes |
| Warm-Up Calculator | No | Yes |
| Ad-Free Experience | No | Yes |
| Monthly Price | Free | $9.99 |
| Yearly Price | Free | $59.99 |
Can I still do the StrongLifts 5x5 workout for free?
Yeah, totally. The workout itself—squat, bench press, overhead press, deadlift, barbell row, all for 5 sets of 5 reps with linear progression—that's just a training method anyone can use. You don't need to pay a dime. The free website gives you full instructions: how to pick starting weight, how to progress, when to deload. Plenty of lifters run it for months with just paper and a pen, or a free spreadsheet. The paid app is just convenience, not a must-have.
What changed to make people think StrongLifts is no longer free?
The whole confusion blew up around 2020-2021 when the company shifted strategy. Before that, the official app was a one-time purchase—like $4.99. Then they switched to a subscription. That pissed off a lot of longtime users. Plus the free website got more ad-heavy, and the free app version became super limited. People on Reddit and social media were furious, and it spread like wildfire that the program wasn't free anymore. But really, the knowledge is still free. Just the official tool went subscription.
Are there free alternatives to the StrongLifts app?
Oh yeah, plenty. You can track with a notebook or a free spreadsheet template—those are everywhere. If you want an app without a subscription, check these out:
- GZCLP App: Free, well-designed, based on the GZCLP program which is similar to StrongLifts.
- Strong (Free Version): Basic workout log, limited features, but totally free for tracking sets and reps.
- FitNotes: Super customizable free app for logging workouts, includes progressive overload tracking.
- Personal Training Coach: Free with pre-loaded programs, including a 5x5 template—might have ads though.
- Paper and Pen: Old school. Write your workout, date, weight. 100% free, no internet needed. Works perfectly.
Is the StrongLifts website still free to use?
Yep, stronglifts.com is still free. You can read the whole program description, check out the exercise library, browse the FAQ. But it's ad-supported, so you'll see ads. The interactive workout log on the site is free too, though it's basic—no automation like the paid app. Still, it's a solid way to learn and follow the program. No complaints there.
"The StrongLifts 5x5 program is a simple, effective, and time-tested method for building strength. The knowledge is free. The convenience of an automated app is a paid service. Choose what works for your budget and goals." — Mehdi Hadim, Creator of StrongLifts
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay to do StrongLifts 5x5?
No way. The program's free. You only pay if you want the official app with premium stuff like automatic progression and rest timers. A free spreadsheet or a notebook works just as well.
Is the StrongLifts app worth the subscription?
For some people, yeah. It automates the math, handles deloads, has a rest timer—super convenient. For others, it's not worth it, especially with free alternatives out there. Depends how much you value convenience and a nice interface.
Why did StrongLifts switch to a subscription model?
The company said they needed recurring revenue to support development, server costs, and updates. It's a common move for apps—going from one-time purchase to subscription for long-term survival. Still stings though.
Can I cancel my StrongLifts subscription anytime?
Yeah, you can cancel through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store whenever. You keep premium access until the end of your current billing period. No tricks there.
Resumen breve
- El programa es gratuito: La metodología StrongLifts 5x5, las instrucciones y el plan básico son completamente gratuitos en el sitio web oficial.
- La app oficial es de pago: La aplicación móvil con funciones avanzadas (progresión automática, temporizador, etc.) requiere una suscripción mensual o anual.
- Hay alternativas gratuitas: Puedes usar un cuaderno, una hoja de cálculo gratuita o apps como GZCLP o FitNotes para seguir el programa sin pagar.
- La percepción cambió: El cambio de un pago único a una suscripción en la app generó la idea errónea de que todo el programa había dejado de ser gratuito.
