Train Your Brain: 4 Apps That Make Mental Fitness Simple and Effective

"The parts of your brain that you use will grow, and the parts of your brain you do not use will atrophy, or shrink. That tells us something about how to exercise the brain." - Dr Daniel Amen, Neuroscientist and Psychiatrist

You exercise your body to stay strong and healthy, so why not do the same for your brain?

Just like physical muscles, your brain thrives on regular workouts. And thanks to science-backed brain training apps, giving your brain a consistent challenge has never been easier. These tools offer short, engaging exercises that improve cognitive function - think memory, attention, processing speed, and problem-solving - all from your phone, tablet or computer.

Why Train Your Brain?

Mental clarity, sharper focus, and greater resilience aren’t just nice-to-haves - they’re essential for thriving in today’s fast-paced world. Regular cognitive exercise helps you stay mentally agile, especially as you age. It can strengthen your memory and recall, making it easier to remember names, appointments, or where you left your keys. You may find it easier to concentrate, even when distractions are all around you, and to switch between tasks without feeling overwhelmed. Brain training also supports mental flexibility and emotional regulation, helping you respond more calmly to stress and make decisions with greater ease. Over time, these improvements can lead to a greater sense of confidence, productivity, and overall wellbeing - because when your brain works better, life feels more manageable and more enjoyable.

Which App Is Right For You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to brain training. That’s why I’ve handpicked four standout apps with unique strengths, so you can find the one that fits your needs, preferences, and goals.

1. BrainHQ

Best for: Science-backed exercises with measurable progress.

Created by neuroscientists, BrainHQ offers a suite of brain training games proven in over 100 peer-reviewed studies. The exercises are designed to improve how quickly and accurately your brain processes information - foundational for everything from reading to driving to remembering conversations.

What’s great about it:

• Highly adaptive: adjusts difficulty in real time

• Targets specific brain skills (memory, attention, brain speed, etc.)

• Backed by strong clinical evidence

• Progress tracking shows how you're improving over time

If you're looking for a serious brain gym with research to support it, BrainHQ is an excellent choice and they offer free exercises with the option to subscribe for full access.

2. CogniFit

Best for: Personalised cognitive assessments and training.

CogniFit offers an in-depth look at your cognitive profile through fun, gamified assessments. Based on your results, it creates a customised training plan to improve weak areas and maintain strengths.

What’s great about it:

• Personalised programs based on cognitive assessments

• Wide range of games targeting over 20 brain functions

• Progress tracking with visual graphs

• Options for family training and group challenges

CogniFit is ideal if you want a more tailored and diagnostic approach to brain fitness with fun games and extra tutorials.

3. Elevate

Best for: Improving daily mental performance and productivity.

Elevate blends brain training with real-world applications - think improved reading comprehension, mental math, focus, and writing clarity. Its sleek, intuitive interface and short, daily sessions make it easy to stick with.

What’s great about it:

• Visually appealing and user-friendly

• Emphasises practical skills for everyday life

• Personalised daily workouts

• Detailed performance tracking by skill

If you're aiming to boost productivity, communication, and confidence in everyday tasks, Elevate is a top contender and they offer free exercises with the option to subscribe for full access.

4. Brain Fit Life

Best for: A holistic approach to brain health.

More than just brain games, Brain Fit Life combines cognitive training with tools to improve emotional well-being, focus, and even brain-type-specific recommendations. Based on the work of psychiatrist Dr. Daniel Amen, it encourages users to look at brain health from multiple angles.

What’s great about it:

• Includes relaxation and focus training, not just games

• Offers tools for tracking moods, energy, and sleep

• Recommends strategies based on your unique brain type

• Encourages a whole-brain wellness approach

This app is a great fit if you’re looking for a more comprehensive mind-body connection in your mental fitness routine and you can try it for free with the option to subscribe.

The Power of Progress Tracking

One of the most motivating parts of using a brain training app is watching your progress unfold. Whether it’s seeing your reaction time improve, your memory scores climb, or your focus sharpen, tracking creates a sense of achievement that fuels consistency.

Just like seeing your step count or fitness stats increase over time, cognitive progress builds confidence - and momentum.

Make Brain Training a Habit

The best part is that most cognitive training apps only take 10–15 minutes a day. Add a session to your morning routine, lunch break, or wind-down time, and you’re on your way to a sharper, more resilient brain.

No matter which App you choose - and I recommend choosing one right now - the key is consistency. Your brain loves repetition and challenge, so feed it well, give it regular workouts, and you’ll start to feel the difference. Do let me know how you get on!

Build a Sharper Mind - Together

Optimising your brain health is a journey, and you don’t have to do it alone. In the Sharp Minds community, you’ll find the support, accountability, and inspiration you need to stay on track - even when motivation dips. Join us and build the habits that keep your mind sharp, focused, and resilient for years to come. Learn more here.