Disclosure: Brolic is ours. The advice works with any app, or with pen and paper.
In short
Log every set as you go — exercise, weight, reps — and compare with last time. Progressive overload (a bit more weight or reps over time) is what makes you stronger, and a log is how you see it. Brolic logs a lift in seconds and shows where you rank.
- Log during the workout, not after.
- Beat last time by a little.
- Measure progress per lift, not by how tired you feel.
What to write down
For every set: the exercise, the weight and the reps. That’s it. Rest times, RPE and notes are nice, but the three numbers are what show progress.
Why your watch isn’t enough
Apple Watch records time, heart rate and calories — useful, but it can’t tell whether you benched 60 kg for 8 or 70 kg for 5. For strength, you need a log of sets and reps.
Use progressive overload
Each week, try to beat last week by a little: one more rep, or the smallest weight jump. When you hit the top of your rep range for every set, add weight. A log makes this obvious — you see last time’s numbers before you start.
Know what “strong” means
Strength standards compare your lift with your bodyweight, from beginner to elite. They make a vague goal (“get stronger”) into a number to chase.
How to do it with Brolic
- Tap a lift. Type the weight and reps, tick the set. The rest timer starts on its own; nudge the weight with −10, −5, +5 and +10.
- Beat your best. Your best is right there, and a new record is stamped the moment you finish — no separate PR log.
- Use routines. Push, Pull, Legs, Upper, Lower and Full Body are built in; save any finished workout as a routine in one tap.
- See where you stand. Strength levels for your bodyweight from Beginner to Elite, a leaderboard for every lift, and a weekly report.
Brolic is free — no subscription, no in-app purchase and no ads. It needs an account for the leaderboards.
Common questions
What is the best way to track workouts on iPhone?
Log each set’s weight and reps as you go, in an app that shows last time’s numbers and your records.
Can Apple Watch track sets and reps?
It records time, heart rate and calories; for sets and reps, use a workout log like Brolic.
Is there a free workout tracker without a subscription?
Yes — Brolic is free with no subscription, in-app purchases or ads.
How do I know if I’m getting stronger?
Compare each lift over time and against strength standards for your bodyweight.
Published · No affiliate links
MMA.socialUFC fan ratings
TrendingPunjabiPunjabi music charts
BoldOpinionAnonymous hot takes
brolic.ioGym leaderboards