Comparison

Genius Gyms vs Arete Method Members

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

Genius Gyms

This app combines neuroscience-based cardio exercise with cognitive training to enhance brain function. It offers engaging audio workouts that can be done anywhere, improving memory, attention, processing speed, and executive functioning. Designed for all ages, it aims to boost cognitive performance and reduce the effects of aging on the brain.

Highlights
  • Neuroscience-based fitness
  • Cardio and cognitive training
  • Audio exercise workouts
  • Improves memory and attention
  • Works anywhere, no wifi needed
  • Targets executive functioning
Features
Read full description

A patent-pending interactive, neuroscience-based fitness App combining cardio exercise and cognitive training to optimize brain functioning. You can use the Genius Gyms audio exercise App anywhere you do your cardio workout (walk, run, or on stationary cardio equipment) to maximize the benefits of exercise for your brain. No gym, no class, no specific equipment, not even wifi needed-just your smartphone. This App is for anyone who wants to improve their cognitive performance, from athletes looking to get an edge to aging older adults wanting to stave off cognitive decline. The Genius Gyms program was developed from the research of Dr. Sarah McEwen, a Cognitive Psychologist, Associate Professor of Neurosciences and NSCA-Certified personal trainer. Dr. McEwen has conducted evidence-based research as a faculty member at UCLA and UC San Diego and is an expert in cognitive aging and the application of exercise and cognitive training to induce neuroplasticity. The Genius Gyms fitness App is a ground-breaking new way to improve brain and body health that uses well-validated neurocognitive games, known to activate specific neural networks, to create a one-of-a-kind interactive and engaging exercise experience. Scientific research has shown that simultaneous physical exercise and cognitive training promotes a greater impact on neuroplasticity and is the most efficacious method to improving cognitive performance. Animal research has found that combined aerobic exercise and cognitive enrichment can yield up to a 30% greater increase in new neurons than either intervention alone. Current research in cognitive aging and risk reduction for neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, have concluded that two of the most effective means to reduce risk are staying physical active and being cognitively engaged and challenged in our mid-life and older adult years. With no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, engaging in preventative measures and prioritizing brain health is critical for successful aging and longevity. The Genius Gyms audio-based, exercise program improves overall physical fitness while simultaneously engaging cognitive networks. The training exercises specifically target increasing brain functioning for performing the following cognitive skills: memory, attention, processing speed, and executive functioning. Our program aims to help reduce/delay the negative effects of aging on the brain. But the program can tailored and used by anyone, regardless of age, physical and cognitive skill level, from kids to high performance athletes. With the Genius Gyms App you will no longer have to suffer through another boring cardio workout. Genius Gym’s workouts are engaging, challenging, interactive and the best part is you can do them anywhere. All you need is your smartphone and headphones. The Genius Gyms App is free to download and includes 3 free exercises and access to the cognitive category "Focus" exercises. For unlimited access to the App, you will need a subscription. The subscription will give you full access to: -All of the interactive, neuroscience-based Genius Gyms exercises designed specifically for use during aerobic exercise -Custom psychologist-developed clinical programs for: Cognitive Aging, ADHD, Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, OCD, depression and Stress. -Custom optimizer programs for: Executives, Team Athletes, Golfers, Gamers -Individual scores and tracking on each cognitive task for accuracy and reaction time. Filters best score, average score, and current session statistics. - Save your workout feature - Build your own custom workout - Regular addition of new cognitive exercises and other data tracking integrations as they become available We offer the following recurring subscription options: 1 month: $5.99 Annual: $5/month ($60.99/year) Privacy policy: https://geniusgyms.com/privacy-policy/ Terms of use: https://geniusgyms.com/terms-of-use/

About

Arete Method Members

Features
Read full description

Arete Method trains your body and brain together. This app is your home base for booking training, staying accountable, and tracking progress—whether you’re joining a class, starting with Bridge, or committing to our flagship 8-Week Brain & Body Reset. Inside the app you can: • Book classes & sessions in seconds • Join challenges & programs (including the 8-Week Brain & Body Reset) • Track progress with body scans and key check-ins • Stay accountable with coaching touchpoints and reminders • Manage your membership (Arete Core / Arete Unlimited) • Drop in when you want with pay-as-you-go options (when available) • Access updates, resources, and community so you stay consistent Our training style (what makes Arete different): Arete Method blends strength and conditioning with subtle cognitive challenges built into the workout—things like reaction, focus, and pattern work—so you’re training for real life, not just the gym. Start the way that fits you: • Trial Class – for people ready to jump in • Starter Session – a guided start with a coach to map your best next step • Bridge – supportive on-ramp with extra coaching • 8-Week Brain & Body Reset – our premier high-touch challenge with unlimited classes, scans, and regular check-ins Ready to live ready? Download the app to book your first session and start training with structure, community, and purpose. Note: Arete Method is a fitness training program. We do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Screenshots

Genius Gyms4 screens
Arete Method Members3 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: Arete Method Members at none against Genius Gyms's 2. Arete Method Members also leads on update cadence (every 3 weeks vs every 26 months). On price, ads, device support and iOS requirement there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. Genius Gyms sells 2 in-app purchases, starting at $5.99 per month. Arete Method Members asks for nothing beyond the download.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

Genius Gyms ships an update every 26 months, Arete Method Members every 3 weeks. The most recent releases landed on September 4, 2026 and September 9, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard2 real differences · 7 level
Genius Gyms versus Arete Method Members: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterGenius GymsArete Method Members
PriceFreeFree
Rating5.0 (4 ratings) — better—
Number of ratings4 — better—
Update frequencyEvery 26 monthsEvery 3 weeks — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
MonetizationFreemium—
DevicesiPhone, iPodiPhone, iPad, iPod — better
Requires iOS15.615.1 — better
Further details — not scored
Size176 MB381 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperGenius Gyms LLCArete Method, LLC

In-app purchases

2 purchases

Genius Gyms

Subscriptions2
  • Monthly Subscription$5.991 Month
  • Yearly Subscription$60.991 Year
None

Arete Method Members

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is Genius Gyms free?
Genius Gyms is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is Arete Method Members free?
Arete Method Members is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do Genius Gyms or Arete Method Members have ads?
Neither Genius Gyms nor Arete Method Members shows ads.
Which is updated more often, Genius Gyms or Arete Method Members?
Genius Gyms ships an update every 26 months, and Arete Method Members every 3 weeks. Most recently, Genius Gyms was updated on September 4, 2026 and Arete Method Members on September 9, 2026.

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