Whether you’re a brand-new runner or a seasoned marathoner, you can probably benefit from a little tech. Modern-day running apps can do it all — log each and every mile, analyze your performance and inspire you to go further the next day. So strap on your running ID bracelets and lace up your favorite trainers because these amazing platforms will help you crush your personal best again and again. Here are a few of our picks for the top running apps of the moment, with the best options for Apple, Android and more.
- Strava (Android and iOS) — Strava is among the most popular running apps out there, and it’s easy to see why. It offers complete tracking and analysis so you can monitor your progress with every run. Ideal for those who love fitness stats and data, this app is all about deep-diving into analytics so you know what to work on. It will sync with all your devices to monitor speed, heart rate and more. Strava is a great choice for those looking for an awesome app that integrates seamlessly with Apple Watch, Garmin watches or Fitbit.
- Nike Run Club (Android and iOS) — Millions of runners adore Nike’s app because it’s quite user-friendly, making it a top pick for beginners. Not only does it allow you to track your runs, but it also provides detailed info on your pace, location, distance, heart rate, elevation, mile splits and more. Plus, in true Nike style, the Run Club app also features an online community to keep you inspired. This app also integrates well with your fitness wearables.
- Garmin Connect (Garmin Devices + Android and iOS) — Garmin’s fitness app is designed to sync with your GPS Garmin watch, helping you effortlessly track your progress and analyze your performance. Not only does it help you monitor your daily activity, but it also provides custom workouts that adapt to your skill level and ability. Tip: Turn your smartwatch into a medical ID with medical alert bracelets compatible with Garmin watches.
- ROAD iD – Live GPS Tracker (Android and iOS) — Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, swimmer, or walker, this app keeps you safe while exercising. It’s eCrumb (electronic breadcrumb) feature allows friends and family to keep track of your GPS location wherever you are – whether it’s tracking your kid as they walk to school or your spouse as they exercise on a hot day. And ever feel as if you’re in need of help? Use the eCrumbs S.O.S. button to instantly share your location with loved ones. Stay safe while you exercise, wherever you are.
- Training Peaks (Android and iOS) — Runners and athletes of all kinds who find motivation through data will love Training Peaks. This app is all about providing rich visuals to help you track, analyze and understand your progress, with things like color-coded workout cards plus graphs and charts to help you see where you stand. You can even use the platform to get matched with a personal fitness coach who will help you push yourself to the next level.
- MapMyRun (Android and iOS) —This endlessly popular longtime mapping app, which was bought by Under Armour in 2013, is designed to provide a seamless run tracking experience. As one of the original tracking options, MapMyRun provides users with a simple and straightforward mapping experience that links easily with your Garmin or Apple Watch. It also boasts a vibrant community of athletes that provides support and motivation to keep you pushing.
- Final Surge (Android and iOS) — Reach your goals with the help of Final Surge, a fitness tracking appthat uses your data to help you build an optimized, personalized plan that’s tailored specifically to you. One thing we love about this app is that it provides a calendar view so you can easily scroll through past workouts and visualize your progress. In addition to standard tracking of distance, duration and pace, this app also lets you record personal notes and your perceived effort to help you remember specifics about your workout.
- Runtastic (Android and iOS) — Adidas’ fitness tracking app can help you build a personalized workout plan that suits your schedule. You can join the community to compare your progress to others and find great new ways to keep yourself engaged. If you’re the kind of athlete who does well with a challenge, the Runtastic app is a great choice because it offers an array of limit-pushing challenges and programs that will keep you engaged.
- Running2Win (Android and iOS) — As one of the oldest running communities out there, Running2Win was started for runners by runners in 2004. Today, the community is still highly active thanks to great features that let you plan, record and share your race results and daily workouts. It’s great because it allows you to connect with people you know and meet new friends using the platform.
- Endomondo (Android and iOS) — Do you find that you tend to do a lot better with your fitness plan when you’re having fun? If so, the Endomondo app is worth a try! This platform is all about finding ways to free your endorphins and meet your running goals. It allows you to make a plan, set targets and compete against yourself or others. The best part is, it provides audio feedback to let you know how you’re doing and to keep you motivated in real time.
- Runkeeper (Android and iOS) — Runkeeper is ASICS’ answer to fitness tracking, and it comes with plenty of features that you’d expect from one of the top fitness apparel brands. It allows you to chart a personalized path to reach your fitness goals in the way that makes the most sense for you. Whether your goal is to enhance workout frequency or to boost your total miles, Runkeeper can help you get there with simple motivational tools and coaching.
As you can see, there’s no shortage of impressive tracking and motivational tech available to modern runners. It doesn’t matter if you’re starting from scratch or feel like you’ve hit a running plateau, there’s an app out there that will help you get in shape and prove to yourself that you have what it takes. Give any one of these running apps a try the next time you feel like you need to shake things up!
