If you’re like us, your smartphone is your go-to for just about everything. From capturing memories to video chatting with loved ones, the list goes on and on. It goes everywhere with us, and that includes our workouts. Whether you’re someone who prefers an at-home workout session or you’re a gym rat, there are countless apps out there to help you exercise more effectively.
At Asurion, our experts help millions of customers resolve their smartphone issues and get the most out of their favorite tech. Here are their recommendations for the best running apps, available for both iPhone® and Android™. The best part? They’re all much cheaper than hiring a personal trainer. In fact, these 10 running apps we’re about to mention all have free versions available.
1. ASICS Runkeeper
One of the first running apps on the scene, ASICS Runkeeper™ is an easy-to-use app that tracks your pace, distance, calories burned, time, and more. Look back on past runs to track your progress and 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 straightforward info runners at every skill level will appreciate.
2. Map My Run
The Map My Run™ by Under Armor® app offers all the basic functionality of a running app: pace, distance, calories burned, and time, with the added benefit of linking to compatible 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 even 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 (treadmill, trail, neighborhood stroll, etc.), which can be helpful when analyzing your performance.
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3. adidas Running
Another popular app, adidas Running by Runtastic™, is your basic running app that links to Google Earth for easy route-mapping. 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.
4. PUMATRAC
PUMATRAC Run, Train, Fitness™ offers a sleek interface with all the perks of a basic running app, but with several bonus features to give a holistic view of your workouts. The app pulls in additional information that may impact your run like weather, time of day or day of the month, and synthesizes to determine personal insights. For example, you may find you run best on Friday mornings before 10, or that you run faster when listening to rock music.
You don’t have to have Nike products to enjoy the benefits of the Nike Run Club: Running Coach™ app. Set your running terrain (treadmill, trails, sidewalk) and the app tracks your pace, distance, calories burned, and time. The thing that sets this app apart are the gamified options that let you 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.
6. Strava: Run, Bike, Hike
If you split your fitness routine between multiple activities, 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. Other unique features 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.
7. Couch to 5K
The Couch to 5K® app is perfect for novice runners looking to get in shape and build up their running regimen in just a few short weeks. Set a goal date for your first 5K and the app will provide 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.
8. Pacer Pedometer & Step Tracker
With some pedometer apps, they won’t track steps if your phone isn’t in your hand. That’s not the case with the Pacer Pedometer & Step Tracker™ app. As long as your phone is with you while you walk, jog or just while running errands (hand, pocket, or even purse), it’ll track your steps. If you’re looking for a guided workout, Pacer offers free options like Intro to Interval Walking, Full Body Strength and Daily Stretch. Pacer is also compatible with other fitness monitoring apps like Fitbit™ and MyFitnessPal™.
9. Zombies, Run!
With the Zombies, Run!® app, you’ll find yourself immersed in the midst of a zombie apocalypse and running to escape the lifeless monsters chasing you. The more miles you log, the more supplies you win to help your village survive. Run too slow, and the zombies catch you! This is a fun app for those looking for an exciting way to spice up their runs.
10. Charity Miles
Charity Miles® is a basic running app that lets you help others while taking care of yourself. Before you start your run, choose the charity you want to donate to that day—there are many to choose from, like the Wounded Warrior Project, Stand Up to Cancer, the ASPCA and more. Then, for each mile you run, walk or bike, corporate sponsors will donate to the cause of your choice. The more you run, the more they donate. Typical donations are $0.10 per mile biked and $0.25 per mile run or walked. Get the kids involved and see how much you can earn for the charity of their choice on your next family walk.
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