Problem Statement

Solo gym goers often lack the motivation and confidence to maintain a consistent fitness routine. Without social accountability, it becomes easier to skip workouts or disengage entirely. While dating apps and social platforms exist, none are designed specifically around fitness compatibility and shared workout habits.

The challenge was to design a product that helps users connect with workout partners without replicating the tone or expectations of dating apps. The experience needed to feel supportive, purposeful, and safe.

Users & Audience

The primary users for FitMe include:

• Individuals looking for a workout partner rather than going to the gym alone

• New gym goers who feel intimidated by traditional gym culture

• Users interested in meeting people through shared fitness goals, not necessarily romantic intent

The app needed to accommodate a wide range of fitness experience levels and preferences.

My Role

This project was completed as part of a second year GBDA course and focused on creating a high fidelity product concept. I was responsible for:

• Framing the market problem and identifying opportunity within the fitness space

• Defining the core product concept and feature set

• Designing key user flows and interaction patterns

• Creating high fidelity UI screens and prototypes in Figma

• Supporting visual design work using Adobe Illustrator

Design Process

Problem framing and market fit

The project began by identifying a gap in the fitness market. While many apps focus on individual tracking or performance, few address the social barriers that prevent people from consistently showing up. We framed accountability as the core value proposition. The idea of “someone expecting you to be there” became a guiding principle throughout the design process.

Matching logic and user control

FitMe matches users based on fitness goals, schedules, and location. Users can view profiles that show workout style, preferred gym times, intensity level, and gym location. This reduces uncertainty and increases the likelihood of a compatible match. Users can also filter who they want to work out with by gender, helping limit manual filtering and increasing comfort and safety.

Avoiding dating app stigma

One of the biggest design challenges was avoiding the perception that FitMe is a dating app. While swipe based interactions are familiar and intuitive, the interface needed to clearly reinforce fitness as the primary purpose.

This was addressed by:

• Emphasizing fitness data over profile photos

• Framing matches around shared goals and schedules

• Using neutral, activity focused language throughout the app

The interaction design reinforces collaboration and accountability rather than attraction.