THE ÆFFORT vs Mountain Squad
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
THE ÆFFORT
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Get the best out of your smart trainer and focus on your performance. Ride structured workouts or re-live your outdoor rides from a recorded GPX file. Improve your fitness and measure your success. Pure, simple, and focussed: with THE ÆFFORT you can train with your indoor smart trainer starting at any level. Perform a test to determine your initial fitness level and start working out based on your actual physical condition. Our aim is to provide the best training experience around - not games or fancy visuals. # Workouts We recommend to start with an initial FTP test to identify your physical condition. Based on the test results you can choose out of a variety of different workout types. THE ÆFFORT contains predefined workout bundles but of course you can also import your own workouts or workout bundles (we support FIT and MRC) as well as export your training data as FIT files. If you prefer other options you can also select simulation workouts with a lovely map view (again with predefined bundles or your own routes imported to the app). You could also combine those options or perform completely manual workouts - it’s all up to you. # During a workout When on the ride you can easily control your smart trainer through THE ÆFFORT. The app provides a clean interface with easily accessible controls for skipping, toggles to alter your FeelGood factor, grade/ERG resistance, or target cadence. Of course you can also switch between camera perspectives. And if you want to see what’s going on you can glance over live charts for all the important values or check notifications regarding your workout. Once you’re finished you will find a detailed summary view about your performance which you can share with platforms like TrainingPeaks and Strava or export the data as a FIT file. # Archive In the archive you will find all your completed workouts with statistics, once again with share features and a FIT export, alongside your user profile with all the basic facts like weekly goals, FTP, weight, or heart rate threshold, and user data. There are also all the necessary settings for permissions, sensors, services, workouts, your membership, the app’s appearance and so on. # Progress THE ÆFFORT helps you to stay en route by keeping track of your weekly goals and offering quarterly charts regarding your progress regarding distances, durations, or stress levels. # Smart Trainer integrations THE ÆFFORT currently supports the following devices: smart trainers with BLE required (all Wahoo smart trainers, all Elite smart trainers, trainers supporting FTMS) heart rate sensors with BLE power meters with BLE The app is able to control your smart trainer and to make use of parameters like power, cadence, or heart rate (depending on your model and additional sensors). # Platform integrations Right from the start THE ÆFFORT integrates nicely with these training and health platforms: TrainingPeaks Strava Apple Health Final Surge We’re working on including additional services in the future. # Data handling First and over all THE ÆFFORT values your privacy and the sovereignty over your data. Therefore we store all data on your device only (but make use of iCloud sync options if you wish). Besides that you can import data in the form of FIT files, MRC files, GPX files, or Bundles. Of course you can also export your data as FIT files or share your workout results with platforms like TrainingPeaks, Strava, or Apple Health. THE ÆFFORT subscription is available as a monthly or annual subscription. Sign up and pay using your App Store account. Membership will automatically renew unless cancelled at least 24 hours before the current membership expires. You can turn off auto-renewal after purchase in Settings > iTunes & App Store > Subscriptions. THE ÆFFORT uses HealthKit to export your workouts to the Health app, import completed workouts and to read biometric data. Terms of Use: https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/
Mountain Squad
This app guides you through a challenging outdoor adventure in the Harz Mountains. Track your progress, digitally stamp your achievements, and earn unique trophies upon completion. It's designed for mountain bikers, trail runners, hikers, and fitness enthusiasts looking to test their limits.
- Comprehensive route information
- Digital stamping system
- Progress tracking and points
- Earn unique trophies
- Support and motivation tips
- Real-time progress updates
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Discover the ultimate outdoor app for fitness and adventure! With the Mountain Squad app, you’ll experience a whole new way to push your limits and explore the breathtaking nature of the Harz Mountains. Whether you’re a passionate mountain biker, ambitious trail runner, or hiking enthusiast, this app is your perfect companion for unforgettable experiences. Your Challenge: 170 km, 4,400 meters of elevation gain, 8 summits With our app, you’ll face one of Germany’s toughest athletic challenges. Over 170 kilometers and 4,400 meters of elevation gain will lead you to 8 of the most impressive summits in the Harz Mountains – including the legendary Brocken, the highest mountain in Northern Germany. The routes combine steep climbs, technically demanding trails, and fascinating landscapes that will keep inspiring you every step of the way. Features of the Mountain Squad App Our app provides everything you need to conquer your challenge – from preparation to documenting your success: 1. Comprehensive Route Information - After purchase, gain access to all relevant details for your selected challenge. - Find extensive information on stages, summits, highlights, elevation profiles, and difficulty levels – all within the app. 2. Digital Stamping System - Forget paper! Our app acts as your digital stamp booklet. Track your progress in real-time, receive updates about your location, and document your achievements. - Eco-friendly, innovative, and practical – for a seamless adventure. 3. Progress and Rewards - Earn points: With each summit conquered, collect points, level up, and unlock new achievements. - Unique trophies: Upon completing your challenge, receive a handcrafted concrete trophy – a symbol of your strength and adventure. 4. Support and Motivation - Benefit from helpful tips and information about routes, attractions, and rest spots. - Stay motivated with real-time progress updates and interactive elements in the app. Who is the app for? - Mountain bikers: Looking for the ultimate challenge and new trails? The Mountain Squad app is perfect for you. - Trail runners: Ambitious runners who love the thrill and beauty of nature will appreciate this app. - Hikers: Even leisure hikers looking for a sporty challenge will find plenty of exciting features in the app. - Fitness enthusiasts: Ideal for anyone wanting to test and improve their physical performance. Start your adventure now! Plan and book your challenge in advance through our website, then download the Mountain Squad app to kick off your journey. The app will guide you from the first stage to your final reward. The Harz Mountains await with their peaks, trails, and adventures – are you ready to push your limits? Get the app and become part of the Mountain Squad community – boom!
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is in-app purchases: Mountain Squad at none against THE ÆFFORT's 3. THE ÆFFORT's advantage is ads (none vs shown) and update cadence (every 2 weeks vs every 2 months). On price, 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
Both are free to download. THE ÆFFORT sells 3 in-app purchases, starting at $6.49 per month. Mountain Squad asks for nothing beyond the download.
THE ÆFFORT ships an update every 2 weeks, Mountain Squad every 2 months. The most recent releases landed on November 3, 2026 and October 30, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | THE ÆFFORT | Mountain Squad |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | — | 5.0 (1 ratings) — better |
| Positive reviews | — | 100.0% of reviews |
| Number of ratings | — | 1 — better |
| Update frequency | Every 2 weeks — better | Every 2 months |
| Ads | No — better | Yes |
| In-app purchases | Yes | No — better |
| Monetization | — | Free with in-app purchases |
| Devices | iPhone | iPhone |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 — better | 17.6 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 80 MB | 52 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | KF Interactive GmbH | Mountain Squad GmbH |
In-app purchases
THE ÆFFORT
- Monthly3 Days trial$6.491 Month
- Season Pass7 Days trial$39.996 Months
- Yearly7 Days trial$72.991 Year
Mountain Squad
No in-app purchases









