Once you know how to set up Apple Fitness Plus, you can work up a sweat with this on-demand workout program.

There are a few things you need to know before signing up for Apple's $9.99/month or $79.99/year workout service. First and foremost, a free trial of Apple Fitness Plus is available with the purchase of a new Apple Watch.

In fact, to use Apple Fitness Plus, you must own an Apple Watch I'm itching to use Apple Fitness Plus But if you don't have the hardware to match, check out our best Apple Watch deals right now for discounted Apple Watch Series 6, Apple Watch SE, and more.

Also, Apple Fitness Plus is a video-based program, so you'll need a screen to watch the class; an iPhone will do, but an iPad or Apple TV may be more straightforward.

Finally, there is some additional equipment needed. At the very least, a yoga mat would be helpful for exercising on the floor. The best treadmill or the best exercise bike would also help you take advantage of more classes.

Ready to set up your Apple Fitness Plus? Here's how to do it.

There are a few prerequisites to setting up Apple Fitness Plus. iPhone/iPad and Apple Watch must be updated to the latest iOS and watchOS respectively. iPhone/iPad must be running iOS 14 (iOS 14.3) and the Apple Watch must be on the latest version of watchOS 7 or at least watchOS 7.2.

As long as you own an Apple Watch and meet the software requirements, Apple Fitness Plus should automatically appear in the Fitness app preinstalled on your iPhone; if you are using an iPad, go to the App Store Download the Fitness app.

If you prefer to work out on a larger screen, you can also download the Fitness app on your Apple TV. New Apple TVs come with the Fitness app preinstalled, but if you already have it, you will need to download it from the Apple TV App Store.

Now that you know how to download Apple Fitness Plus, the next step is to set up Apple Fitness Plus. Here are the steps on the iPhone, but the same instructions apply to the iPad.

1. Open the Fitness app; for Apple Watch users, the Fitness app should launch with a tab called "Summary." Select the "Fitness+" tab in the menu at the bottom of the screen.

2. On the "Welcome to Apple Fitness Plus" page, select "Continue". This welcome page provides a brief overview of the service and a disclaimer regarding data usage. If desired, you can also review how to manage your data.

3. Start a free trial. If you got a new Apple Watch within the past three months, you are eligible for a free three-month Apple Fitness Plus membership. If you have had your Apple Watch for longer, you will receive one month free. In any case, you will be asked to verify your Apple ID. You will also be notified when your trial expires or when you will be billed for your monthly or annual subscription.

4. Welcome to Apple Fitness Plus. Here you can find information about classes, instructors, and more. To learn how to use the app and get started with your workout, watch our introductory video.

5. Complete the "Start Working Out" program. This step is optional, but recommended. Even if you work out regularly, this series of 10-minute workouts will give you an idea of what to expect from the Fitness Plus class style. These beginner classes are helpful because when you get to take an actual class, there is little to no introduction to yourself.

Now that you know how to download Apple Fitness Plus and how to set up Apple Fitness Plus, it's time to get started. For more fitness content, check out our guide to the best home gym equipment and best workout apps, and our 10-minute abdominal training and weightlifting workout guide is a great resource for workout novices.