Get Up and Go: Top Apps to Reach Your Running Goals
Running is one of the most accessible exercises out there – all you need is a good pair of shoes! However, it can be challenging to stay consistent and motivated, especially when training for a big race or goal. That’s where running apps and training plans come in handy!
The Big Ones: Nike Run Club and Strava
Two of the most popular and full-featured running apps are Nike Run Club and Strava. Both offer training plans for various race distances, audio guided runs, route mapping, progress tracking, and a social community.
Nike Run Club has guided runs where coaches give you tips and encouragement in real time based on your pace and distance. Strava offers in-depth data analysis like heart rate, pace, and elevation. Strava also has motivating features like giving you badges for running certain distances and keeping daily and monthly mileage streaks.
Plans for Every Goal
A training plan provides structure and helps you progress safely to avoid injury. Here are some top apps with 5K, half marathon, and other training plans:
- Zenlabs C25K (Couch to 5K) – Perfect for new runners with a mix of running and walking. Builds you up gradually to running a 5K in 9 weeks.
- Hal Higdon – Popular free training plans for every distance from 5K to marathon, available for Android and iOS.
- Asics Runkeeper – Offers 5K and 10K trainer plans on its free app.
- Under Armour Map My Run – Easily track your workouts, set training plans, and discover new workout routines to crush your goals.
- Garmin Coach – Works with Garmin devices to provide adaptive training plans and workouts.
More Than Just Plans
While training plans give you a schedule to follow, many running apps have other helpful features too:
- Audio guided runs on apps like Nike Run Club and Aaptiv tell you when to speed up, add hills, etc.
- Zenlabs C25K (Couch to 5K) gently eases you into running with walk/run intervals. It also has motivating guides and music options.
- Charity Miles lets you earn money for causes you care about with every mile logged.
- Zombies, Run! gamifies your runs by letting you go on missions and collect supplies to build your home base while avoiding zombies.
Finding What Works For You
The key is finding a running app that syncs up with your goals and motivates you to stick with it. Many have free versions you can try before committing. Take some time to explore and see which one(s) get you excited to hit the pavement! Consistency is key when training, and the right app can help you every step of the way.
