Getting the best running app can be an important step for many runners, akin to finding the perfect pair of running shoes. For runner newcomers, the proper running application can coach them through the tricky opening weeks of training and help them set realistic and achievable goals. For seasoned runners, apps with specialised coaching can help them achieve new PRs, train for upcoming races or find new challenging routes.
Finding the right running app can keep you motivated, track your progress, inspire new training approaches, discover exciting routes, and celebrate milestones. But as with all apps, searching "running" in Apple Store or Google Play brings up thousands of options on your smartphone, and finding the ones worth downloading can be challenging. Below, we've highlighted the best for all levels of runners to help you find the one that'll transform your jogs.
All the apps we have chosen are free, though many offer a paid-for premium tier unlocking additional features. We recommend trying out the free features first to get a feel of the app and what it can offer - if you like it and need more, you can always subscribe later.
Note that many of these apps are also compatible with fitness trackers, allowing you to add more metrics to the data you collect. All apps are available for Apple iPhone iOS and Android smartphones.
NHS Couch To 5K
Best free app for all new runners
Couch To 5K is a marvel - and it's free. Designed in partnership with the NHS and the BBC, the app breaks the first weeks of running down into manageable, accessible steps. It allows your body and mind to be properly conditioned for running by steadily upping difficulty over time. The result is a sustainable progression that can transform your feelings around running.
The app works because it starts with a mix of running and walking to build up your fitness and stamina gradually. The plan involves three runs a week, with a day of rest in between and a different schedule for each of the nine weeks. It uses a coach to guide you throughout the runs, and you can play music from your phone in the background to keep you motivated if needed.
Couch To 5K works because it knows that running is hard, especially for newcomers during the first few weeks. Your body isn't used to it, and it's easy to overdo it and have unrealistic expectations that leave you feeling deflated and unmotivated. Couch To 5K helps you through the first stages of running to increase the chance of you sticking with it drastically.
If you're new to running, we can't recommend this enough.
Strava
Best app for tracking runs
Strava is a comprehensive running companion. It uses the GPS technology in your smartphone to accurately monitor runs. It captures all the crucial metrics you need to analyse a run, such as distance, pace, elevation, and heart rate. Users can meticulously analyse their runs, identifying strengths and weaknesses while setting and tracking progress-related goals.
The platform also helps you discover routes and will suggest popular running paths based on preferences or general popularity. Unique to Strava is the segmentation feature, which allows users to evaluate performance on specific route sections. This gives you a more modular and dissected approach to progression and a deeper understanding of pacing.
The platform's social aspects foster motivation by enabling users to share their runs with friends and followers, encouraging friendly competition through segment and leaderboard comparisons and giving out 'kudos'. Engaging in challenges adds an extra layer of motivation and provides opportunities for virtual rewards.
Strava provides free and premium versions, with the latter unlocking advanced features such as training plans, live segments, and route creation tools. Whether a novice or an experienced runner, Strava proves invaluable for progress tracking, motivation, and connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
View on Google Play | View on Apple Store | View Strava website
OS Maps
Best app for trail runs
Fancy taking things off the beaten track? The OS Map app will allow you to find the most wild running routes across the UK. We like the OS Map as it offers a more diverse selection of courses than most running apps, thanks to its wide user base, which creates beautiful routes through stunning countryside scenery and its unparalleled database of footpaths, rights of way, and more. It can also track your route as you run, though it won't give as thorough feedback as a dedicated running-specific app like Strava.
As a premium member, you will have access to the Ordnance Survey Landranger and Explorer maps and aerial views to help you plan your run. There's even a 3D mode that you can activate, which will track your planned route to give you a clear view of the elevation you can expect to encounter - ideal for runs you're planning through hills, mountains and valleys.
View on Google Play | View on Apple Store | View OS Maps website
Runna
Best app for coaching
If there is a marathon in your future, consider Runna. Or if you have any other type of long-distance stint planned, in fact. Runna's USP is all about training plans and creating a personalised plan for runners of all abilities. Offerings tailored programs for 5Ks to ultramarathons, the app hosts curated workouts which include intervals, tempo runs, and long runs for optimal progress.
GPS tracking monitors distance, pace, elevation, and heart rate. Motivation comes through the app's ability to keep up with your progression, challenges, virtual races, and a supportive community. At the same time, the app also offers runner-specific strength training plans, nutrition guidance, and injury prevention tips.
The free version provides basics, while the premium unlocks advanced analytics, live coaching, and race calendars. Live coaching offers real-time feedback, dedicated coaches and an educational library enhance support.
View on Google Play | View on Apple Store | View Runna website
Which is the best running app for free?
For newcomers, Couch to 5K is the best free running app. For everyone else, Strava has the best free features for most people. However, all of the apps we have suggested above have free versions.
What's the best running route app?
For finding routes in your local area, Strava is best. It has a vast bank of user-created routes that can follow. For going off-piste and into the wilds, the OS Maps is best.
What's the best app after Couch to 5K?
If you want to continue with guided training sessions, we recommend Runna. If you are ready to go and become more independent, go for Strava.
William Lobley is the Deputy Tech & Fitness Editor for What's The Best. Here, he oversees, curates and researches listicles and reviews as many products as his home office can handle.
He has spent nearly five years writing about tech, audio, outdoors and fitness and has reviewed everything from smartphones to ice baths. In addition, he's well-versed in sniffing out the best deals and savings the internet offers.
When not at his desk writing, reviewing or deal-hunting, he'll be relaxing with Japanese crime novels, bingeing some classic anime, strolling the countryside or at the gym listening to the heaviest metal Spotify has to offer.
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