Comparison

SigmaLifting vs Top Set Training

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

Head to head
About

SigmaLifting

This app streamlines powerlifting program design by eliminating spreadsheet reliance. It allows for quick setup of percentage-based prescriptions, RPE targets, and deloads, with features for reusable templates and instant updates. Train offline with all data stored locally.

Highlights
  • Percentage-based weight programming
  • RPE target tracking
  • Automatic deload calculations
  • Reusable training templates
  • Offline functionality
  • Export to spreadsheet/JSON
  • Variable logging options
Read full description

STOP FIGHTING SPREADSHEETS. START TRAINING. SigmaLifting is a purpose-built programming app for powerlifting. It helps you set up percentage-based prescriptions, RPE targets, backoff sets, fatigue drops, and deloads in minutes—without the fragility of formulas or the hassle of spreadsheet upkeep. PROGRAM ONCE, RUN FOREVER Build reusable templates and run them again anytime with clean, cycle-by-cycle tracking. REAL PROGRAMMING LOGIC, NO SPREADSHEET WORKAROUNDS Percentages, 1RM anchoring, backoff sets, fatigue drops, and straightforward deloads are built in. No cell references, hidden formulas, or broken links. INSTANT UPDATES Adjust a 1RM, change a percentage, or refine your plan and see your prescriptions update immediately. 100% OFFLINE. NO ACCOUNT REQUIRED. Your data stays on your device. No cloud, no login. EXPORT AND SHARE WITH CONFIDENCE And yes, you can export everything as clear, readable spreadsheets (XLSX) or JSON anytime—and import them back. Share programs with training partners and keep results identical across devices. KEY FEATURES • Blocks & periodization — structure multi-week training phases • Set groups — program identical sets efficiently • Percentage-based weights — link prescriptions to squat, bench, or deadlift 1RM • 1RM anchoring — tie accessories to main lift maxes • Backoff sets — auto-calculate from prior set performance • Fatigue drops — reduce load when RPE exceeds your threshold • Simple deloads — final week auto-calculates from the previous week • Variable logging — track weight, reps, RPE, or your preferred combination • Auto-suggested weights — recommendations based on 1RM, reps, and target RPE DESIGNED FOR MOBILE Spreadsheets weren't made for phones. SigmaLifting is. You get the same programming depth with a fast, clean interface that fits how you actually train. WHO IT'S FOR Powerlifters, strength athletes, and coaches who build plans with percentages, RPE, or both. If you’ve ever maintained a training block in Sheets and wished it felt simpler and more reliable, SigmaLifting is built for you.

About

Top Set Training

Features
Read full description

Your complete strength training companion. Most lifting apps are built around one program. When you want to try something new you end up juggling spreadsheets and switching apps. Top Set Training is different. It is a hub for many proven barbell programs, with smart tools that follow you from one plan to the next. Stop worrying about spreadsheets and plate math. Top Set Training handles the programming and numbers so you can focus on lifting heavy and getting stronger. PROGRAMS THAT FIT HOW YOU TRAIN Pick from a growing library of popular programs, all in one place. : Beginner: Starting Strength, StrongLifts 5x5 Intermediate: 5/3/1 variations, nSuns, GZCLP, PPL style programs Advanced: High volume and auto regulated templates And more Top Set Training supports linear progression, percentage based work, AMRAP sets, RPE and more. You are not locked into a single style. SWITCH PROGRAMS WITHOUT LOSING PROGRESS Change goals without starting from scratch. • Carry your current training maxes into any new program • Start new cycles with updated maxes or keep them the same • Keep a continuous history of every workout across programs You can also use the same logic engine that powers the built in templates to build your own programs, including complex progressions. SEAMLESS WORKOUT TRACKING • Weights calculated automatically from your training maxes • Log AMRAP sets and track rep PRs • Rest timer with Lock Screen and Dynamic Island support • Visual plate calculator that shows exactly which plates to load • Add accessory work and notes to any workout TRACK YOUR PROGRESS • Watch your estimated 1RM climb over time • See training max trends for each main lift • Compare strength using Wilks, DOTS and IPF GL scores • Browse full workout history across all programs and cycles NOW WITH APPLE WATCH + APPLE HEALTH • Apple Watch companion app reads heart rate for richer Apple Fitness workout data • Apple Health integration syncs workouts to Apple Fitness with calorie estimation BUILT IN STRENGTH CALCULATORS No need for separate apps. Everything is built in: • One rep max estimator from submaximal lifts • RPE calculator for autoregulated training • Training max percentage charts for 5/3/1 style work and more • Plate loading visualizer for fast setup on the bar • Strength score calculators using Wilks, DOTS and IPF GL CUSTOMIZE YOUR TRAINING • Create and save custom programs and templates • Adjust weight increments and rounding rules • Configure bar weights and your available plates • Use metric or Imperial units FREE TO START. UPGRADE WHEN READY. Use Top Set Training for free with access to core features, calculators and custom programs. When you are ready, upgrade to Pro to unlock the full library of programs. Choose weekly ($0.99/wk), monthly ($2.99/mo), or a one-time lifetime purchase ($14.99). Subscriptions auto-renew unless canceled at least 24 hours before the end of the current period. Payment is charged to your Apple ID account. Manage subscriptions in Settings > Apple ID > Subscriptions. Terms of Use: https://gregorymcinnes.com/terms Privacy Policy: https://gregorymcinnes.com/apps/top-set-training/ Whether you are a beginner learning the barbell or an experienced lifter cycling through different proven programs, Top Set Training gives you structure without locking you in. Download now and start your next training cycle.

Screenshots

SigmaLifting4 screens
Top Set Training4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: SigmaLifting at none against Top Set Training's 3. SigmaLifting also leads on iOS requirement (15.1 vs 17.0). Top Set Training's advantage is update cadence (every 2 weeks vs every 2 months). On price, ads and device support 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. Top Set Training sells 3 in-app purchases, starting at $0.99 per 7 days. SigmaLifting asks for nothing beyond the download.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

SigmaLifting ships an update every 2 months, Top Set Training every 2 weeks. The most recent releases landed on September 18, 2026 and September 13, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard3 real differences · 7 level
SigmaLifting versus Top Set Training: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterSigmaLiftingTop Set Training
PriceFreeFree
Rating5.0 (2 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews100.0% of reviews—
Number of ratings2 — better—
Update frequencyEvery 2 monthsEvery 2 weeks — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesNo — betterYes
MonetizationFree—
DevicesiPhone, iPodiPhone, Apple Watch
Requires iOS15.1 — better17.0
Further details — not scored
Size36 MB14 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperSigmalifting LLCGreg McInnes

In-app purchases

None

SigmaLifting

No in-app purchases

3 purchases

Top Set Training

Subscriptions2
  • Premium Weekly7 Days trial$0.997 Days
  • Premium Monthly7 Days trial$2.991 Month
One-time1
  • Top Set Training Premium$9.99

Questions

Is SigmaLifting free?
SigmaLifting is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Is Top Set Training free?
Top Set Training is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Do SigmaLifting or Top Set Training have ads?
Neither SigmaLifting nor Top Set Training shows ads.
Which is updated more often, SigmaLifting or Top Set Training?
SigmaLifting ships an update every 2 months, and Top Set Training every 2 weeks. Most recently, SigmaLifting was updated on September 18, 2026 and Top Set Training on September 13, 2026.

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