Running has evolved from simply lacing up your shoes and hitting the pavement to a data-driven activity enhanced by technology.
Here we will explore the top running apps available today, breaking down their key features, benefits, limitations, and costs to help you make an informed decision about which digital running companion deserves a spot on your smartphone.
As a runner with a personal best of 31 minutes and a certified UESCA running coach I am able to take you through all the details of the best running apps on the market.
What is a Running App?
A running app is a mobile application designed specifically to enhance, track, and improve your running experience.
These apps may collect data about your runs, including distance, pace, elevation changes, and sometimes even advanced metrics like cadence, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation when paired with compatible devices.
As smartphones and wearable technology have advanced, running apps have become increasingly sophisticated, offering features previously only available in dedicated running watches.
Why You Should Have A Running App?
Modern running apps go far beyond simple tracking capabilities. They often include:
- Personalized training plans tailored to specific goals like completing a first 5K or achieving a marathon personal best
- Real-time coaching with audio feedback during runs
- Detailed analytics to help you understand your progress and identify areas for improvement
- Community features that connect you with other runners for motivation and friendly competition
- Integration capabilities with other fitness devices and platforms
- Gamification elements like challenges, badges, and point systems to increase engagement
- Music and audio integration to enhance your running entertainment
The above fundamentally can help with accountability, provide insights and motivation as well as knowledge in your running journey.
Disclaimer: App features, interfaces, and pricing structures may change over time. Readers are encouraged to check each app's official website or app store listing for the most current information before making a decision. Individual experiences with these apps may vary based on device compatibility, geographic location, and specific usage needs.
The 7 Best Running Apps of 2025
1. Strava
Taken from strava.com
Summary
Strava has established itself as the social network for athletes, combining powerful tracking capabilities with robust community features.
The app has evolved to a comprehensive platform that connects millions of runners and cyclists worldwide.
Its signature Segments feature, which allows users to compete for the fastest times on specific routes, has created a unique form of virtual competition that keeps users engaged and motivated.
I certainly found it a lot of fun particularly during the Covid pandemic aiming for crowns in the local areas.
Top Features
- Segments that allow you to compete against others on popular routes
- Detailed performance analytics including pace, elevation, and heart rate zones
- Training log with comprehensive statistics and progress tracking
- Social feed showing friends' activities with the ability to give kudos and comments
- Group challenges and monthly goals to maintain motivation
Pros:
- Exceptional social and community aspects that foster motivation
- Clean, intuitive interface with excellent data visualization
- Robust free version with plenty of useful features
- Strong integration with most running watches and fitness devices
- Regular updates with new features and improvements
Cons:
- Most advanced training and analysis features require a subscription
- Can foster unhealthy competition for some
- Privacy concerns with public activity maps unless settings are adjusted
My thoughts
If it's social motivation and community features you are after, Strava stands out as the clear leader. Chasing after crowns and segment wins can be a lot of fun, however don't let it distract you from your overall training and racing goals.
For current pricing:
- Free basic version available
- Premium subscription options available
- Check official website for latest subscription details
2. Nike Run Club
Summary
Nike Run Club (NRC) stands out as one of the most polished and accessible running apps available, backed by Nike's extensive experience in the running industry.
The app combines beautiful design with practical functionality, making it particularly appealing to visual learners and those who appreciate aesthetic motivation. NRC excels at making running approachable for beginners while still offering enough features to satisfy more experienced runners.
Top Features
- Guided runs led by coaches, athletes, and celebrities
- Customizable training plans for various goals and distances
- Audio coaching with real-time feedback during runs
- Achievements and milestone celebrations to mark progress
- Seamless social sharing capabilities
Pros:
- Completely free with no premium tier or in-app purchases
- Motivating guided runs with excellent coaching cues
- Clean, intuitive, and visually appealing interface
- Strong community elements with global and friend challenges
- Regular content updates with new guided runs and features
Cons:
- Limited advanced analytics compared to more data-focused apps
- Occasionally experiences sync issues with certain devices
- Less robust route planning than some competitors
My thoughts
If you would rather spend your hard earn money on a new pair of running shoes, then the Nike Run Club app could be the one for you. Budget-conscious runners will appreciate Nike Run Club's extensive free features.
For current pricing:
- Completely free with no premium tier
- Check official website for verification
3. Garmin Connect
Inside the Garmin Connect App
Summary
Garmin Connect is the companion app to Garmin's popular line of running watches, but it has evolved into a powerful platform in its own right.
While it works best when paired with a Garmin device, the app offers comprehensive tracking, analysis, and planning tools that create a complete picture of your running and overall fitness.
For data-driven runners who want deep insights into their performance trends, Garmin Connect delivers some of the most detailed analytics available.
Top Features:
- Comprehensive performance metrics including advanced running dynamics
- Training status assessments that evaluate the effectiveness of your training
- Recovery time recommendations based on workout intensity
- Physiological measurements like VO2 max and lactate threshold estimates
- Sleep analysis with detailed breakdown of sleep stages
- Custom workout creation and training plan options
Pros:
- Extremely detailed data analysis and performance tracking
- Holistic approach that incorporates sleep, stress, and other health factors
- Strong community features with challenges and connections
- Excellent visualization of complex data points
- Regular updates with new health and performance metrics
Cons:
- Works best with Garmin devices; limited functionality with phone-only tracking
- Interface can be overwhelming for beginners
- Learning curve to understand all the available metrics
- Mobile app can be sluggish when loading extensive historical data
My thoughts
Having used the Garmin connect app for many years I found it really useful to review stats and data insights in to my running. I also really liked the fun element of collecting the badges. However I would say that to really get benefit from the app its worth having a Garmin device.
For current pricing:
- Free app download
- Full functionality requires Garmin devices (separate purchase)
- Check official website for latest device pricing
4. Runkeeper
Summary
Asics Runkeeper App is hugely popular and rightly so.
The app balances simplicity with powerful features, making it accessible to beginners while still offering enough depth for experienced runners.
Runkeeper excels at providing clear, actionable insights without overwhelming users with excessive data, focusing instead on the metrics that matter most for improvement.
Top Features:
- Audio cues with customizable feedback during runs
- Goal-setting tools with progress tracking
- Personalized training plans for various distances and goals
- Shoe tracking to monitor mileage on different pairs
- Challenge friends feature for motivation
- Race training specifically designed for event preparation
- Interval workout creation and guidance
Pros:
- Clean, straightforward interface that's easy to navigate
- Strong audio feedback system with customizable cues
- Reliable GPS tracking with accurate measurements
- Good balance of features for both beginners and experienced runners
- Effective goal-setting and progress visualization tools
Cons:
- Some features locked behind subscription paywall
- Training plans less comprehensive than specialized coaching apps
- Limited advanced metrics compared to more data-focused options
My thoughts
I think that for runners who are seeking a balanced, straightforward experience will enjoy Runkeeper's intuitive approach.
For current pricing:
- Free basic version available
- Premium subscription options available
- Check official website for latest subscription details
5. Adidas Running (formerly Runtastic)
Summary
Adidas Running (previously known as Runtastic) combines reliable tracking functionality with motivational features designed to keep runners consistent and engaged.
As part of the Adidas ecosystem, the app integrates well with other Adidas training apps and provides a comprehensive fitness tracking experience.
The app stands out for its clean interface, accurate tracking, and voice coach feature that provides real-time guidance during runs.
Top Features:
- Detailed activity tracking with comprehensive metrics
- Voice coach that provides motivation and stats during runs
- Goal-setting with progress visualization
- Training plans for various distances and fitness levels
- Route discovery and creation tools
- Integration with Adidas Training app for cross-training workouts
Pros:
- Accurate GPS tracking with minimal battery drain
- Clean, user-friendly interface with intuitive navigation
- Good integration with music streaming services
- Comprehensive training plans for all levels
Cons:
- Many premium features require subscription
- Community aspects not as strong as some competitors
My thoughts:
A solid all-around app with the majority of the features you need to help you gain insight and motivation in your training, I certainly think the free version is worth exploring, particularly if you are new to running and looking to take the next step in your race performance.
For current pricing:
- Free basic version available
- Premium subscription options available
- Check official website for latest subscription details
6. MapMyRun
Screenshot from MapMYRun
Summary
MapMyRun has evolved from a simple route mapping tool to a comprehensive running platform.
The app specializes in route discovery and creation, making it ideal for runners who frequently travel or enjoy exploring new paths. With its extensive database of user-created routes, MapMyRun helps eliminate the guesswork from finding places to run in unfamiliar areas.
Top Features:
- Extensive route discovery with millions of user-created paths
- Route creator with elevation
- Live tracking with real-time stats and audio feedback
- Training plans for various distances and goals
Pros:
- Outstanding route discovery and creation capabilities
- Clean map interface with useful overlays
- Good community aspects with route sharing and activity feeds
- Comprehensive training log with exportable data
Cons:
- Many advanced features require subscription
- Occasional GPS accuracy issues in challenging environments
- Battery consumption higher than some competitors
My thoughts:
If you really value discovering new routes, then you will really benefit from MapMyRun's extensive route database.
For current pricing:
- Free basic version available
- Premium subscription options available
- Check official website for latest subscription details
7. Zwift Run
Summary
Zwift Run has revolutionized indoor running by transforming the typically monotonous treadmill experience into an engaging, gamified virtual world.
While primarily designed for indoor use, Zwift has expanded to offer outdoor features as well, making it a versatile option for runners who split their time between treadmill and road running.
The app's immersive environments and multiplayer capabilities create a unique social experience even when running alone on a treadmill.
Top Features:
- Virtual worlds to explore during treadmill runs
- Live multiplayer running with users worldwide
- Structured workouts and training plans
- Group runs and races with real-time competition
- Power-based training using running dynamics
- Achievement system with unlockable gear and routes
- Integration with most smart treadmills and running pods
Pros:
- Transforms indoor running from boring to engaging
- Strong community with always-active virtual runs
- Gamification elements that enhance motivation
- High-quality graphics and immersive environments
- Structured workouts based on effort rather than pace
Cons:
- Requires additional hardware for best experience
- Monthly subscription cost higher than many running apps
- Steeper learning curve than traditional running apps
- Limited utility for runners who primarily train outdoors
My thoughts:
If you really enjoy training indoors and are looking to make treadmill sessions more engaging you should find Zwift Run transformative.
For current pricing:
- Free trial period available
- Subscription required for continued use
- Additional hardware may be necessary
- Check official website for latest subscription details
Conclusion
The running app landscape in 2025 offers more variety and sophistication than ever before, with options tailored to every type of runner and training philosophy. The best app for you depends on your specific needs, goals, and preferences:
Many runners actually use multiple apps for different purposes—perhaps one for social sharing, another for detailed analysis, and a third for guided workouts. Most apps allow for some level of integration or data sharing, making this multi-app approach increasingly seamless.
Whichever app you choose, consistency in using it will provide the greatest benefit. The data collected over time becomes increasingly valuable, revealing patterns and progress that can inform your training decisions and keep you motivated on your running journey.
As technology continues to advance, we can expect running apps to incorporate even more sophisticated features, like real-time form analysis, predictive injury prevention, and increasingly personalized training adaptations. The future of running is digital, but the fundamental joy of the sport remains in the physical experience, remember these apps are simply tools to enhance and inform that experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a smartwatch to use running apps effectively?
While a smartwatch or dedicated GPS running watch can enhance your experience with most running apps by providing more accurate data and allowing you to leave your phone at home, it's not essential for most apps.
Can running apps really improve my performance?
Research suggests that runners who track their activities and follow structured plans typically show greater improvement than those who train without guidance. Running apps can improve performance through several mechanisms: providing structured training that incorporates proper progression and recovery, offering real-time feedback that helps you maintain target intensities, enabling analysis of patterns and trends in your performance data, and creating accountability and motivation through social features and goal tracking.
Which running app is best for beginners?
For those new to running, Nike Run Club is often the best starting point due to its user-friendly interface, excellent guided runs specifically designed for beginners, and encouraging community. The app's coaching cues are particularly helpful for those just learning proper pacing and running form.
