Ranking the 6 Best Running Apps for Beginners
Figuring out the best way to start running is tough. For instance, how far should you run each day as a beginner, and how do you stay motivated? Fortunately, a whole selection of apps can help you start a new running habit safely. Here’s a look at the top beginner-friendly running apps available now.
1.C25K 5K Run Trainer & Coach
Perhaps the best app for developing a consistent running habit as a beginner, Couch to 5K will help you train for the 5K (3.1 mile) distance within eight weeks. If you can devote the time to run for 30 minutes three times a week, then the 5K distance is within reach.
It’s also one of the most simple, streamlined running apps available, with only the features you need to get started. The Home screen explains your run and walk intervals for each day. Tap theStartbutton to get moving.
The app helps you ramp up slowly, with running and walking intervals that gradually build in intensity over time. Friendly audio cues tell you when to warm up, walk, run, and cool down. The screen displays how much time you have in each interval, as well as the total time remaining.
The first week is free to try, and subsequent weeks require a subscription. For absolute beginners, C25K is a proven, well-loved choice and the best option overall.
Download:C25K 5K Run Trainer & Coach foriOS|Android(Subscription required, free trial available)
2. Nike Run Club
For friendly, encouraging audio motivation during your run, the free Nike Run Club app is an amazing resource. During the guided runs, receive helpful tips from Nike Running Global Head Coach Chris Bennett, fitness evangelist Angela Manuel Davis, and a whole selection of incredible athletes.
Consistently ranked as one of the top apps in the App Store’s Health & Fitness category, and with an average 4.2 rating from over 1 million reviews on Google Play, it’s a wildly popular download for a reason.
Review beginner-friendly guided runs on theRunscreen. Or check out theGet Started Collection, which offers a specific option for your first, second, and third runs.
Additional guided runs introduce you to speed work and longer distances. For every step of the way, the coaches offer advice on effort, breathing, posture, and more to set you up for success as a runner.
Plus, more collections include inspiring athletes' stories, speed runs, and treadmill runs. If you’re just getting started as a runner, it’s like gaining access to an instant running community.
The app is also fantastic as a run tracker, capturing average pace, time, elevation gain, average heart rate, and cadence, as well as a map of the route. you could opt to include notes about your effort and location for a more detailed picture of each run.
In addition to these options, thePlansscreen offers a 4-Week Training Plan for beginners, as well as an 8-Week Training Plan to prepare for a 5K run. TheClubscreen, meanwhile, includes distance challenges you can join, as well as a leaderboard to keep up with friends.
One of the best free running apps available, Nike Run Club offers a huge wealth of information, data, and motivating audio for newcomers to the sport. With its focus on the mental side of training as well as the physical aspects, it offers a holistic approach to running in general.
Download:Nike Run Club foriOS|Android(Free)
A much-loved app in the running community, Strava is excellent for discovering new running routes and competing against others on local segments. With options for cycling, kayaking, rock climbing, and more, it’s perfect for multi-sport athletes.
Click on theMapsscreen to see nearby routes selected by other runners, including the total mileage, elevation, and general time to complete them. This is a fantastic way for new runners to learn more about the best places to run in their towns.
To go for a run, tap theRecordbutton, thenStart. The screen displays time, split average pace, and distance. Hold theStopbutton to complete the run and review overall distance, pace, time, and route on a map.
The paid version includes group challenges as well as individual goals, which is a great way to stay motivated. Add friends to get their workout data on the dashboard, as well. This straightforward, no-fuss app has everything a new runner needs to start exploring your area on foot.
Download:Strava foriOS|Android(Free, subscription available)
4. Zombies, Run!
Pretend you’re in The Last of Us with this clever, story-based app that drops you right into the middle of a zombie audio drama. As Runner 5, you’re tasked with gathering supplies and evading the hoards of zombies, all while following directions from radio transmissions. It’s a belovedapp that actually makes fitness fun.
As long as you can move faster than a slow shamble, there’s a good chance you can outwit the undead and become the hero of the mission. With over 500 unique story missions, there are plenty of adventures to enjoy. Every run is unique with this app, even if you’re circling the same block in real life.
TheHomescreen offers information about the next mission, as well as home workouts and training plans. Meanwhile, theMissionsscreen offers access to all the seasons of Zombies, Run!, as well as more features including virtual races and interval training options. TheBasescreen lets you build Abel Township, while theCodexlists achievements, artifacts, and gathered supplies.
Although the game-like storytelling aspects of the app are fantastic, it also operates well as a running app. Track overall time and pace while running, and review distance, time, and pace at the conclusion of each run. For the most part, this imaginative, immersive app offers tremendous motivation for new and experienced runners alike.
Download:Zombies, Run! foriOS|Android(Free, subscription available)
5. Running Trainer: Tracker & Coach
For simple, accurate training advice and tracking features, the Running Trainer app is tough to top. Its clean layout and variety of tracking data make it a favorite among athletes.
To begin, hit the large greenStart Runbutton in the center of theRunscreen. Audio prompts tell you when to switch between walking and running. During the run, the screen displays information about the amount of time elapsed, how long until your next walk break, and the total amount of time left for that particular run.
it’s possible to view your location on a map and use a timer to display your current paceand distance. Lastly, aMusicoption lets you play music within the app.
Meanwhile, thePlansscreen offers a variety of options to get started with 5K, 10K, or interval training. TheProgressscreen shows mileage, pace, and more for the week, month, year, and all time. For plenty of run data, motivating coaching options, and progress tracking, the Running Trainer app is a solid choice.
Download:Running Trainer: Tracker & Coach foriOS(Subscription required, free trial available)
6. MapMyRun
Best for mapping out routes beforehand, the MapMyRun app features a simple user interface and tracking ability. It’s also among thebest Galaxy Watch workout appsfor fitness on your wrist.
The app’sHomescreen displays a map of your area, as well as a GPS signal display and a Load Route option. Tap theStart Workoutbutton to get moving.
While you’re working out, the screen displays time and distance covered. An audio prompt tells you when to start running. When you’re done, hit thePausebutton, thenHold to Finishto record the completed workout.
Review past workouts on theExplorescreen, which also includes a section to view your friends' runs. Push your monthly distance by joining challenges on theChallengescreen. Lastly, theDashboardscreen displays weekly performance, any training plans, and a detailed summary of past runs.
In addition, search for popular routes all over the world on theMapMyRunwebsite. Bookmark the chosen route, which will appear in the app to try out later. For many athletes, MapMyRun is a fantastic way to discover new routes and record workout data with ease.
Download:MapMyRun foriOS|Android(Free, subscription available)
Go the Distance With the Best Running Apps for Beginners
If you’re ready to start a consistent running routine, download some of these apps for motivation and company out on the road. With helpful narration, advice, and plenty of data, these beginner-friendly running apps will help you kick off this new habit the right way.
A couch to 5K program is one of the best ways to start a distance running habit and increase your activity. Use these top apps to start training.
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