Free weight-loss apps UK: choose by what stays free

A practical shortlist

These options address different parts of a routine. This is a provider-information comparison, not a clinical ranking or a hands-on test.

If you mainly want a food diary

Try entering an ordinary breakfast, a packed lunch and a meal you cook yourself. Check the serving units and the labels on familiar UK foods. If your workflow depends on a scanner, recipe import or detailed nutrient view, check that specific feature in the current free plan.

MyFitnessPal documents a free version alongside paid upgrades. An upgrade prompt does not make every part of the service paid, but it is worth checking the feature you actually need before building a routine around it.

If you want help beginning an activity routine

The NHS offers Couch to 5K free for beginners. Its role is to guide running, so choose it for that purpose rather than expecting it to organise a food shop. Check the official advice and adapt activity to your circumstances.

Trials and paid apps belong in a separate decision

BestBody publishes £6 monthly or £50 annually and uses early-access registration. It is included here to make the distinction clear: it is not a verified ongoing free weight-loss app.

Before a trial, note when billing starts, the renewal amount and the cancellation route. If you only need a free diary, compare the free functionality first. Paying is worthwhile only when the additional workflow is useful to you.

A simple check after a week

Ask whether recording food or activity has helped you understand your routine, whether it takes a manageable amount of time, and whether you want to continue. Avoid treating a short-term scale change as proof that an app works.

For a medical condition, special health diet or eating-disorder history, seek individual professional advice before using weight-loss targets.