If you use the gym primarily to run on the treadmill, you may find that using a running app to track your running stats and keep you motivated to run is a sufficient substitute. However, if you like to use other equipment and amenities at the gym and enjoy the face-to-face interaction with instructors and other gym members, you might regret giving up your membership.
In many cases, it works best to keep your gym membership and use a running app as a tool to supplement your training and help you reach your running-related goals. Most running apps are free to download, but they may include just the basic features.
You can make an in-app purchase to access a premium version with more functionality and no ads. Some running apps also offer a monthly or yearly membership. Members get access to more robust and advanced features such as personalized training plans and in-depth data analysis. We looked at nine different apps from reputable companies to curate this list of best running apps. To start, we compared the free version of each app to the premium or paid subscription option.
In order to make our list, the free version needed to provide enough features to make the app helpful and worth using or they needed to offer a free trial so users can decide if the upgrade is worth the price. We also took stock of the training tools each app provided and only selected running apps that offered tracking features, running routes, graphs and charts, and stats.
Bonus points were given to apps that focus on community support, challenges, and ways to connect virtually with friends. Whether you're looking to run faster, further, or just start to run in general, we have the best tips for you. Sign up and become a better runner today! Williams PT. Greater weight loss from running than walking during a 6. Med Sci Sports Exerc. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellFit. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page.
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We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. Our Top Picks. Sign Up Now. Pros Strong running community and support Appropriate for all running levels Set goals and track progress In-app challenges and virtual running groups. Cons Need to upgrade for access to premium features Tailored race-training plans only available with subscription Continued use of GPS in background can decrease battery life.
Pros Real-time audio coaching Find local running routes and routes in new cities Ability to view time, distance, speed, and pace while running Gear Tracker tells you when you need new shoes Syncs with Under Armour Smart Shoes. Cons Premium features require a subscription GPS can be spotty if phone is not in the right place. Cons Not a good fit for intermediate to experienced runners Need to pay attention to audio cues Upgrade required for access to premium features like customized programs.
Pros Good choice for competitive runners Focuses on performance analytics Highlights the social aspects of running. Cons Some people worry about privacy with personal routes that are made public Might be too competitive or advanced for entry-level runners Need premium version to enjoy it fully.
That was surprising because the collection happened even when the app was not in use. Endomondo, like RunKeeper, tracks a number of GPS-based activities, including running, cycling, and swimming. When you are running or doing an activity, the interface is not the most important thing on your mind. Still an interactive interface with everything features neatly organized and easily accessible can go a long way.
Both Endomondo and RunKeeper have done well. The only difference is that Endomondo comes with a bottom bar that allows switching between activities and choosing features that much easier. RunKeeper still shakes the sidebar menu that opens when you tap the menu icon at the top. Even more annoying for people with small hands, like me.
In Endomondo, tap the Training tab at the bottom to get started. The default activity is active, but you can quickly change it by tapping the Settings icon at the top. In addition, there are also options to connect to fitness bands for measurement heart beats and bicycle speed in the case of cycling. RunKeeper makes it easier to change activity with a clear button for the same.
You can choose an activity, play a song from YouTube Music or Play Music Apple Music was not detected or opt for a tailor-made training schedule.
Makes it much faster and easier to get started in my opinion. Both Endomondo and RunKeeper can be set up to keep you informed of various statistics while running. For example, the audio coach tells you your speed, heart speed, distance, time, averages and split times.
Activity tracking 1. It has an exercise diary, allowing you to easily keep track of your previous workouts. It supports third-party heart rate monitors to incorporate your pulse data.
This is useful if you are on a strict training diet or if you are trying to lose weight. It can also help to boost your motivation. It can determine when you have stopped working out and pause your current workout tracking until you start moving again.
After exercising, you can add details about your workout e. This enables the device to provide more accurate information, such as the number of calories burned.
Measuring pace shows how much time it takes to travel one kilometer or one mile. For example, in running, a 4 minute kilometer would be a very good pace. Activity reports 1. Your activity data is analysed to give you reports, available to view through the app or website.
This allows you to see how active you have been and to help you make improvements. Whether you want to lose weight or run your first 5K, there are plans and challenges in both the running apps to keep you motivated and track your progress. Starting with Endomondo, there are personalized training plans complete with workout calendar to help you keep track of progress over time. Not to be left behind, RunKeeper will also let you choose your goals and then create plans accordingly.
You can participate in social challenges where thousands of others will join you. Endomondo again takes the lead here with many challenges available. Of course, you can always create your own in both RunKeeper and Endomondo. Moreover, Endomondo comes with a unique feature called Commitments. It works like goals where you will set a target.
Say, I want to run my first 5K in the next 3 months. You can now invite your friends, thereby being accountable to your commitments. Well, losing face is not an option. Ever wondered why Mark Zuckerberg shares his annual goals publicly on Facebook? Endomondo also comes with Interval Training which is a proven way to burn more calories and build more muscle, only faster. Training plans are available on both the apps for premium users.
They also connect with a host of third-party fitness devices like Garmin, arm bands, and so on. Endomondo again has a long list of devices and apps like MyFitnessPal that it works with right out of the box.
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