Runkeeper
One of the first running apps on the scene, Runkeeper is a straight-forward easy to use app that tracks your pace, distance, calories burned, time and more. Look back on past runs to track your progress and use set route within the app to discover new routes near you. It’s one of the best running apps for beginners, providing basic run data to help you get into your new routine, but has straight-forward info runners at every skill level will appreciate.
Run with Map My Run
This app offers all the basic functionality of a running app: pace, distance, calories burned and time, with the added benefit of linking to fitness trackers and heart rate monitors. You can also input more robust data like food consumption and track the distance logged on your running shoes. The app will alert you when it’s time for a new pair. A cool function of this app is the ability to specify the type of run—are you on a treadmill, on the trails, in your neighborhood or walking the dog, which can be helpful when analyzing your performance.
Adidas Running App by Runtastic
Another popular app, adidas Running App by Runtastic, is your basic running app that links to Google Earth for easy route-mapping, especially if you’re in a new city. The analytics in this app are great with graphs and charts depicting your progress and easy social sharing. It comes with built-in training schedules and even syncs up with Spotify and Pandora for easy music streaming. This app is great for travelers constantly running in new cities and those looking for more robust reporting of your run data.
Nike Run Club
You don’t have to have Nike products to enjoy the benefits of this app. Set your running terrain (treadmill, trails, sidewalk) and the app tracks your pace, distance, calories burned and time. The thing that set this app apart are the gamified options to share your personal goals, challenge friends and beat your personal record. You can also upload a “Power Song” to play when you need an extra boost on your run.
Strava Running and Cycling
If you split your fitness routine between running and cycling, the Strava app is a great choice. The unique dashboards track more detailed aspects of your workout like elevation gained plus more traditional metrics like pace, distance and time. Another unique feature are the leaderboards, achievement badges and challenges to push you to reach your goals. This app is great for those who like to run off the beaten path and thrive with a little friendly competition.
Couch to 5K
Perfect for the novice runner looking to get in shape and build up their running regimen, this app gets you off your couch and able to run a 5K in just 9 short weeks. It provides built-in training schedules with 20 – 30 min routes three times a week until your race. The built in pacing tells you when to walk, when to run, and coaches you through your route while gradually building stamina and strength. Choose 1 of 4 virtual coaches to keep you motivated.
