Mobility is sometimes confused with flexibility, but they are quite different. Flexibility focuses on the muscles passively stretching and does not usually require strength and balance. On the other hand, mobility centers on moving your muscles and joints through a full range of motion freely.

It is important to include mobility in your regular workout routine as it has some fantastic benefits. Not only can mobility training reduce pain and injuries, but it can also help you release stress and improve strength. Below are several of the best smartphone apps that can help you reach your mobility goals.

1. Pliability

Pliability is the ultimate app if you're interested in anything mobility-related. From yoga sessions to post-workout practices, Pliability offers content to suit you, whatever your needs are. The app features a quick mobility test, so you can see how mobile your body is and if you have any problem areas.

Using your phone's camera, the Pliability app accesses you and gives you a mobility score in only a few minutes. You can then work off of this score to find the perfect mobility classes and programs.

Remember to use the insights to keep track of your progress to see how you've improved your mobility over time. Additionally, look over your chosen mobility routine beforehand to see what movements are included and if you need any specific exercise equipment.

Download: Pliability for iOS | Android (Free, subscription available)

2. GOWOD

GOWOD is a workout app that puts mobility first and is a favorite among CrossFit athletes. And like Pliability, GOWOD also features an in-app mobility test. GOWOD's mobility test is only 12 minutes long, and it's best if you do it monthly to monitor your performance.

Once you complete your mobility test, you'll receive a mobility score that is divided into five different sections—shoulders, overhead, hips, posterior chain, ankles—and percentage scores for each.

Based on your mobility profile, which highlights one or two priority areas, GOWOD recommends daily workouts as well as pre- and post-workout suggestions. Feel free to take advantage of the awesome exercise library, which includes tons of mobility workouts. To make browsing easier, you can search by exercise type, equipment, and muscle zone.

Download: GOWOD for iOS | Android (Free, subscription available)

3. StretchIt

From flexibility programs and conditioning to community challenges and mobility training, StretchIt is one of the best stretching apps to improve your flexibility and mobility. When you use the StretchIt app, you have the option to look for a class on your own depending on which area of your body you want to target. On the other hand, the StretchIt app can recommend a class or program based on your goals and what you want to focus on.

As an example, if your goal is to improve your health and your hip mobility, you might get a quick class like Hip Express or a 14-day program like Hip Mobility. Alternatively, StretchIt offers some great active recovery options to try on your rest day.

Download: StretchIt for iOS | Android (Free, subscription available)

4. ROM Coach

ROM, which means range of motion, is exactly what the ROM Coach app wants to help you improve. To begin using the app, you need to first set up your DMT or Daily Movement Tuneup. This involves choosing specific areas of your body that you want to spotlight, like your neck or hips.

It's best to perform your DMT every day and to make sure you never forget, you can add a reminder notification. Besides your DMT, there is also a test called the Movement Age Assessment. This is the test that ROM Coach uses to gauge your mobility and then recommends routines to improve your results.

The best part about the workouts on ROM Coach is just how quick and accessible they are. Some are only five minutes long, which means you can easily fit them into your busy day.

Download: ROM Coach for iOS | Android (Free, subscription available)

5. Skill Yoga

The first thing Skill Yoga assesses are your yoga goals—do you want to focus on strength, mobility, or advanced skills? From there, based on your sports background, skill level, and gender, the app builds a personalized training plan for you. Each plan offers an overview of the level of strength, mobility, and mindfulness.

If you're at an advanced mobility level or want to push yourself, make sure to look for a training program with a higher mobility focus. If you want to keep things simple, you can look for a suitable mobility workout from the hundreds of single workouts or try a guided meditation session.

There are even three fun athletic tests to evaluate your mental well-being, flexibility, and strength. Furthermore, you can use your phone's camera to get real-time feedback and tips to improve your movements.

Download: Skill Yoga for iOS | Android (Free, subscription available)

6. Stretch

Whether you're struggling with stiffness or already making mobility a habit, Stretch is the ideal mobile app. Stretch can help you transform your body from the comfort of your own home using a range of excellent classes, courses, routines, and challenges.

A must-try class includes the Basics Beginner Yoga Class to learn the basics of yoga. Another great option is the Stress Relief category, which features routines to improve your hip, shoulder, neck, and full body mobility. In addition, there are some straightforward, basic pre- and post-workout sessions to teach you movements like hip circles, toe touches, and side lunges.

If you're not 100% sure about using the Stretch mobile app, consider that all the classes are led by Sam Gach, a certified yoga teacher, personal trainer, and stretching and flexibility coach.

Download: Stretch for iOS | Android (Free, subscription available)

The Best Apps to Improve Your Mobility

As much as you'd like to completely fend it off, as you age your mobility may decrease. This is especially true for people who work a normal office job eight hours a day and spend most of it sitting at a desk. Having limited mobility can affect just about every simple thing in your life, from getting dressed to going for a walk.

The good news is that with regular training, you can maintain and improve your mobility, even as you get older. That's why it is encouraged to make mobility an important part of your exercise routine. So whether you want to try a mobility workout as a quick warm-up or cooldown, download one or two of these apps to start improving your range of motion!