Is running a weekly habit for you? Or is it your favorite method to lose weight? Either way, with the best running apps, you can track your progress, improve your training routines, and get more out of every run. Plus, these apps are fun to use.
Whether you’re searching for the best app to start running, the best running app for marathon training, or a community running app, we’ve got you covered.
If you’re wondering how much running apps cost, well, most of them are free. Can running apps replace your gym membership? If running is at the core of your workout, they can. After all, it’s nicer to run outside than on a treadmill, right?
Explore now the best free running apps for iPhone and Android including the best running apps for Apple Watch.
We’re breaking our list down into categories to make your choice easier, but before we dive in, we have developed a summary sheet about all the apps reviewed.
| App | App store rating | App store price | Google play rating | Google play price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joggo | 4.5 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.2 | Free with in-app purchases | Beginner runners |
| Runkeeper | 4.8 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.2 | Free with in-app purchases | Beginner runners |
| Couch to 5K | 4.6 | $4.99 | 4.6 | $4.99 | Beginner runners |
| Pacer | 4.9 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.8 | Free with in-app purchases | Beginner runners |
| Nike Run Club | 4.8 | Free | 4.1 | Free | Advanced runners |
| Peloton | 4.9 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.2 | Free with in-app purchases | Advanced runners |
| Map My Run | 4.8 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.7 | Free with in-app purchases | Advanced runners |
| Runcoach | 4.3 | Free with in-app purchases | 3.3 | Free with in-app purchases | Advanced runners |
| Zwift | 4.7 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.0 | Free with in-app purchases | Advanced runners |
| Strava | 4.8 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.5 | Free with in-app purchases | Social running |
| Apple Fitness Plus | 3.0 | $9.99/month after 1 month free | – | Not Available | Social running |
| Adidas Running App Runtastic | 4.8 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.5 | Free with in-app purchases | Marathon runners |
| Garmin Connect | 4.5 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.6 | Free | Marathon runners |
| Aaptiv | 4.7 | Free with in-app purchases | 4.0 | Free with in-app purchases | Music running |
| Stride | 4.5 | Free | 3.6 | Free | Motivational running |
In This Article:
Best Apps for Beginner Runners
Are running apps good for beginner runners? Yes! They can log your runs, help you review your performance, and send you motivational reminders to keep you going. Discover now the best running apps for beginners.
Joggo (iOS: 4.5 stars, Android: 4.2 stars)
Joggo team offers you a personalized running program that focuses on proper training form and sustainable weight loss. After filling a quick questionnaire, the app generates a customized program that covers all the training and nutrition questions a novice runner might have.
Intuitive and focused, this is one of the best free running apps for beginners.
Cool features:
- Use a personalized goal-oriented running plan.
- Twice a week, get your training program adjustments.
- Get a meal plan that was created for inexperienced runners.
Verdict :
Joggo is a personalized running app that meets you where you are and helps you reach your fitness goals. It provides a custom running plan, easy-to-follow workouts, and motivation to help you succeed. It also offers a meal plan and educational articles to help you build healthier habits. Overall, Joggo is a great app for anyone who wants to get in shape and improve their health
Runkeeper (iOS: 4.8 stars, Android: 4.2 stars)
Track workouts, set achievable goals, and stay motivated by following a personalized plan. With the Runkeeper app, getting out the door every day and establishing a running routine gets easier.
Backed by Asics, one of the biggest brands in the running world, it integrates with Apple Health, Apple Watch, Fitbit, Garmin, and other key fitness trackers.
Cool features:
- Audio updates keep you informed and motivated during runs.
- In-app challenges and exercise rewards keep you going.
- You can join virtual running groups to share your progress and experiences.
Verdict:
ASICS Runkeeper is a great app for runners of all levels. It has a variety of features to help you track your progress, set goals, and stay motivated. The app is also easy to use and has a nice interface. Overall, I would highly recommend ASICS Runkeeper to anyone looking for a running app.
Couch to 5K (iOS: 4.6 stars, Android: 4.6 stars)
Want to finally get off that couch and start running? Couch to 5K can ease your transition from long sessions in front of the TV to long-distance running.
One of the best running coach apps, it takes the popular 9-week program and packages it into a neat UI with distance and pace trackers, community support, and graphs for performance analysis. Virtual assistant trainer and cute graphics included.
“Can running help me lose weight while I prepare for a 5K?” you may ask. You bet!
Cool features:
- You can choose between 4 virtual coaches who talk to you during runs.
- The app supports GPS.
- It features an in-app music player.
Verdict:
This is a great app for people who are new to running and want to train for a 5K. It has a 9 week program that slowly increases the amount of running you do. There are 4 different virtual coaches to choose from. The app also tracks your progress and lets you share it with others.
Pacer (iOS: 4.9 stars, Android: 4.8 stars)
With Pacer, you can track your runs, walks, hikes, and biking, as well as your weight and BMI. It automatically logs all your steps so long as you have your phone with you. You also get activity goal challenges and guided video workouts.
Cool features:
- You can create running groups with your friends.
- The activity tracker displays your route on a map and lets you add photos to it.
- Calculates average pace and elevation gain.
Verdict:
Pacer is a comprehensive pedometer app that goes beyond simply tracking your steps. It provides detailed activity data, guided workouts, weight loss coaching, and advanced data reports to help you reach your fitness goals. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned athlete, Pacer has something to offer everyone. The app is free to use, with in-app purchases for premium features. Overall, Pacer is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile pedometer app.
Best Apps for Advanced Runners
Got running in your blood already? The best apps to track running distance pack more features than simple running apps and integrate with more devices and related fitness trackers.
Nike Run Club (iOS: 4.8 stars, Android: 4.1 stars)
Nike’s official running app comes in the form of a Run Club with Apple Watch support. This free running app for advanced runners brings your personalized coaching plans, advanced tracking, audio-guided runs, and trophies and badges to mark milestones.
Pair of Nike’s recommended but not required!
Cool features:
- Custom challenges can inspire you to train more and better.
- Leaderboards foster a healthy spirit of competition.
- You can get in-run cheers from friends.
Verdict:
Nike Run Club is a comprehensive running app that caters to runners of all levels, from beginners to experienced athletes. With its plethora of features, it seamlessly integrates into your running routine, providing guidance, motivation, and detailed tracking to help you achieve your fitness goals. Whether you’re aiming to improve your pace, conquer a 5K, or simply maintain an active lifestyle, Nike Run Club empowers you to take control of your running journey.
Peloton (iOS: 4.9 stars, Android: 4.2 stars)
Peloton offers a variety of outdoor classes for Members, including walking, running, hiking, and cooldowns. These classes range from beginner to advanced in terms of difficulty, and anywhere from 10-75 minutes in terms of duration.
Cool features:
- “Just Work Out” allows you to track and get credit for any walk, run, or ride you do outside.
- Sync to Strava and have all of your efforts in one place.
- Keep track of multiple users on the same account.
Verdict:
Overall, Peloton is a well-rounded fitness app that offers a variety of features to help users achieve their fitness goals. The app is easy to use and has a large library of classes to choose from. The live classes are especially motivating, and the instructors are all very knowledgeable and engaging.
Map My Run (iOS: 4.8 stars, Android: 4.7 stars)
Under Armor’s Map My Run lets you track and map your workouts effectively and shows them on a map. It brings you all the essential run data you need to monitor your performance, including average pace and calories.
Plus, it connects with over 400 devices and is backed by a big, engaged community. It’s one of the best run mapping apps around in terms of features and design.
Cool features:
- You can connect it to supported Under Armor shoes for accurate tracking.
- Race plans can help you maximize results.
- Real-time audio coaching can boost your performance.
Verdict:
Map My Run by Under Armour is an excellent running app with a comprehensive set of features to help runners of all levels track their progress, set goals, and stay motivated. The app is easy to use and has a variety of features, including GPS tracking, pace and distance tracking, route planning, audio coaching, and community features.
Runcoach (iOS: 4.3 stars, Android: 3.3 stars)
The name gives this one away, doesn’t it? The app companion to an online coaching service, Runcoach, starts from your current fitness level to provide personalized training plans.
You get GPS tracking, pace charts, real-time voice cues, and even rewards from Garmin and other partners. The app says it improves race finish time by 7%. Maybe it will work even better for you?
Cool features:
- You can manually log workouts if you forget to take your phone with you on the run.
- Makes tweaking your schedule and leveling up to new training plans smooth and easy.
Verdict:
Runcoach is a comprehensive running app designed to help runners of all levels achieve their fitness goals. It provides a variety of features, including personalized training plans, GPS tracking, pace and distance tracking, route planning, audio coaching, and more. Whether you’re a beginner aiming to complete your first 5K or an experienced runner looking to improve your times, Runcoach can help you reach your full potential.
Zwift (iOS: 4.7 stars, Android: 4.0 stars)
Do you like to alternate cycling with running but don’t get to spend as much time outdoors? Zwift blends in serious workouts with the fun factor of video games.
Pair a supported device with the app, and you can follow training plans in a virtual world – routes vary from central London to Mayan ruins.
Cool features:
- Live events and group runs make everything more exciting.
- You can choose from over 1,000 structured workouts.
- Lots of immersive run worlds to explore, all of them immersive.
Verdict:
Zwift is an immersive indoor cycling and running app that offers structured training plans, group rides and runs, races, challenges, and a supportive community. It’s a great way to get in shape and challenge yourself, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete.
The Best Community Running Apps
Staying motivated can prove challenging once the aches and the tendonitis begin to offset your initial enthusiasm for running.
A community running app can save the day by keeping you connected and engaged even if your friends can’t join you on your runs.
The best run tracking app backed by a huge community is users is…
Strava (iOS: 4.8 stars, Android: 4.5 stars)
If you’ve tried running apps before, you may have seen this one coming. Strava’s got it all and a nice interface to top it off.
Go beyond tracking runs and workouts and find new places to explore. You can also race other runners with virtual segments.
Cool features:
- You get to explore the world’s largest trail network.
- Monthly challenges can inspire you to run more.
- Advanced but intuitive tracking and analyzing make using this app very effective.
Verdict:
Strava is a comprehensive social fitness tracking app that caters to a wide range of activities, from running and cycling to hiking and yoga. It offers a variety of features to help users track their progress, set goals, and stay motivated. With its user-friendly interface and strong community, Strava is an excellent choice for individuals seeking to enhance their fitness journey.
Apple Fitness Plus (iOS: 3.0 stars)
The iOS app that offers on-demand workouts in 11 different categories, including high-intensity interval training, yoga, core workouts, strength training, treadmill walking or running, indoor cycling and rowing, dance, and mindful cooldown.
Cool features:
- Time to run feature takes you to parks, towns and cities across the world.
- Messages & ques in sign language during classes is a great addition for users with impaired hearing.
- Preview your class and see beforehand what kind of workout you’re getting into.
Verdict:
Apple Fitness is a versatile fitness tracking app that seamlessly integrates with Apple Watch to provide users with comprehensive health and fitness insights. It offers a wide range of workouts, including yoga, cycling, running, and strength training, catering to individuals of all fitness levels. With its personalized coaching, detailed metrics, and engaging challenges, Apple Fitness effectively motivates users to achieve their fitness goals.
The Best App for Marathon Runners
Training for a marathon? Maybe it’s your first, or maybe you want to improve your last finish time. Either way, a running app for marathon runners can get you there.
Adidas Running App Runtastic (iOS: 4.8 stars, Android: 4.5 stars)
Adidas’ running app has the right mix of tracking, analysis, and community features to make it the best running app to train for half marathons as well as full ones.
Goal setting, score activity, and pace tracking can bring you in the right shape for the big day.
Cool features:
- Run virtual races with people around the world.
- Follow other runners and create your own running community with friends.
- Targeted challenges boost motivation.
Verdict:
Whether you’re a beginner embarking on your running journey or an experienced athlete striving for new personal bests, Adidas Running is an invaluable companion. Its comprehensive features, personalized coaching, and engaging social community elevate your running experience, empowering you to achieve your fitness goals and discover the joy of running.
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We combined exercise and meal planning for the most effective way to LOSE WEIGHT.
Garmin Connect (iOS: 4.5 stars, Android: 4.6 stars)
Connect to your Garmin device(s) and track, analyze, and share health and fitness activities. The app offers individual activity data, long-term activity data, custom uploads, and training plans.
Cool features:
- Set up Incident Detection and Assistance Requirements to alert your emergency contacts.
- Personalize with free downloads (from Connect IQ Store) of apps, widgets, watch faces, data fields, music streaming services and more.
- The Challenges tab on the Garmin Connect app has a number of different challenges leading to virtual badges & medals.
Verdict:
Whether you’re a fitness novice seeking to establish healthy habits or a seasoned athlete striving for new performance breakthroughs, Garmin Connect is an invaluable companion. Its comprehensive features, personalized insights, and engaging social community empower you to take control of your fitness journey, uncover your hidden potential, and achieve your wellness goals.
The Best Music Running App
Does music lend you wings when you run? Grab a music running app and enjoy every beat.
Aaptiv (iOS: 4.7 stars, Android: 4.0 stars)
Aaptiv may have a bit of a strange name, but it’s our choice for the best running music app for iPhone. It’s easy to use and lets you discover and sort exercises so that you work how you want when you want.
It features over 2,500 music-driven workouts, including interval training and 7-minute workouts. You also get personalized fitness plans and programs.
Cool features:
- Group challenges can give you an adrenaline boost.
- Weekly workouts based on your goals and performance.
- Works offline.
- New classes are added every week.
Verdict:
Beyond its personalized workouts and curated playlists, Aaptiv’s motivating audio coaching sets it apart from other fitness apps. Experienced trainers guide you through each workout, providing clear instructions, encouragement, and modifications to ensure you’re exercising safely and effectively. The app’s real-time feedback and motivation help you push your limits and achieve your fitness goals. With its diverse range of workouts, personalized coaching, and engaging playlists, Aaptiv transforms your workouts into enjoyable and effective experiences. Whether you’re seeking to improve your overall fitness, train for a specific event, or simply stay active, Aaptiv provides the tools and motivation you need to achieve your goals.
Best Motivational Running Apps
Last but not least on our list are motivational running apps. If you want to run but can’t (always) find the drive, check these out!
Stride (iOS: 4.5 stars, Android: 3.6 stars)
Stride turns your regular running into a game by pitting you against other users in a competition. Stride tracks your runs and walks via your phone’s GPS and you play against other users nearby to control the biggest territory to win. Essentially a territory-capturing game that encourages regular walking or running.
Cool features:
- Territory-Capturing Game
- You can also collaborate or play solo based on your preference.
- Stride rewards determination over speed, so you can still win the territory as long as you visit it enough.
Verdict:
Overall, I highly recommend Stride to anyone who is looking for a fun and effective way to get motivated to exercise. It’s a great app for people of all fitness levels, and it’s sure to help you reach your goals.
Zombies, Run! (iOS: 4.8 stars, Android: 4.3 stars)
No running app list would be complete without… zombies! What better motivation to run and get fit than to escape a horde of zombies?
Grab this app, take some steps outside, and the zombies will be breathing down your neck. Full of cool audio effects, thrilling stories, and loads of action-packed missions, this creative running app is worth a try, even if you’ve seen enough zombie movies already.
Cool features:
- Play your own music in the background.
- Virtual races enable you to run even on rainy days.
- Weaves storytelling with fitness activities to help you set new personal bests.
Verdict:
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a complete beginner, Zombies, Run! is a great way to get motivated and stay active. The app’s immersive narrative, engaging gameplay, and effective training plans make it a truly unique and enjoyable fitness experience.
How to Choose the Best Running App for You
If you’ve been with us so far, you’ve seen that there are lots of running apps out there that are worth your time. So, what is the best running app for you?
It depends on your focus, fitness level, and running goals. Are you new to running or a seasoned runner?
Some apps cover both categories of runners, while others are designed for one category only. When you first get started, focus on essential features as the bells and whistles can be distracting and may cost you extra.
All the apps on our list have the kind of tracking features that can help you analyze your progress and set goals. But to find the right workouts and the best mix of features, you may want to explore them a bit.
Shortlist a few apps and take each on the run. That way, you can tell which app is the best running companion for you.
Now grab your running shoes, tie your laces, and go for a run, will you? Just don’t forget to download a running app before you start adding up miles!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is best running app free?
Determining the “best” running app free depends on individual preferences and running goals. However, several apps stand out for their comprehensive features and user-friendliness, offering excellent value for runners without the need for premium subscriptions.
Nike Run Club (NRC) is a popular choice for its guided runs, coached training plans, and community support. Strava excels at social features and data analysis, while MapMyRun provides a vast library of routes and in-app audio coaching. These apps, along with Runkeeper, adidas Running, and others, offer essential tracking functions like pace, distance, and time, making them suitable for runners of all levels.
What running app is the most accurate?
Establishing the “most accurate” running app is challenging due to the interplay of GPS accuracy, data processing algorithms, and route complexity. However, several apps have consistently delivered exceptional accuracy in tracking distance, pace, and other metrics.
Strava, with its extensive user base and sophisticated data analysis tools, has garnered a reputation for accuracy. It leverages a combination of GPS signals, accelerometer data, and artificial intelligence to optimize distance measurements. Garmin Coach, Runkeeper, and Nike Run Club also boast reliable accuracy, particularly when paired with high-end fitness trackers or smartphones with robust GPS capabilities.
Joggo Run, a relatively new app, has also garnered positive feedback for its accuracy, particularly in its GPS tracking and distance measurements. It utilizes advanced GPS algorithms and real-time data synchronization to ensure accurate records of runs. Runners have reported consistent results compared to other popular apps, particularly in urban areas with dense buildings or complex terrains.
What’s the running app everyone uses?
Determining the “running app everyone uses” is subjective and depends on individual preferences and running goals. However, certain apps consistently rank among the most popular and widely used among runners worldwide.
Strava stands out for its social features, data analysis, and extensive community of runners. It allows users to connect with friends, follow other runners, and compete on segments of popular routes. Nike Run Club (NRC) offers guided runs, coached training plans, and a library of music playlists, making it a popular choice for runners of all levels. MapMyRun provides detailed route mapping, audio coaching, and a large community of users. Runkeeper, adidas Running, and others also offer comprehensive tracking functions and a variety of features to cater to different needs and preferences.
What is the best app for beginning runners?
Choosing the “best” running app for beginners depends on individual preferences and running goals. However, several apps stand out for their user-friendliness, guided runs, and supportive features, making them ideal for new runners embarking on their fitness journey.
Nike Run Club (NRC) offers a comprehensive beginner program with guided runs, voice cues, and customizable pacing options. It also provides a supportive community and a library of music playlists to keep motivated. Couch to 5K is another popular app specifically designed for beginners, gradually increasing running duration and intensity to build endurance.
Joggo App stands out for its personalized approach, adapting training plans and coaching tips based on individual fitness levels and goals. It also includes a built-in meal planner to support healthy eating habits during training. Runkeeper and adidas Running offer similar guided runs and training programs, ensuring a structured and supportive experience for beginners.
Ultimately, the best app for beginners is the one that aligns with their learning style, motivation, and running preferences. Whether seeking structured training plans, personalized coaching, or a supportive community, there’s an app out there to help new runners achieve their fitness goals.
