Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, running training apps can make the world of difference in helping you achieve your goals and improve your performance.
Ideal for a variety of running goals – from building stamina to increasing speed – these apps have evolved beyond mere distance tracking. These days, they offer personalised training plans, real-time coaching and performance analytics to help you reach your goals.
But, naturally with so many options available, finding the best one for your needs can be overwhelming. Some apps focus on interval training and structured workouts, while others provide motivation through virtual races and social challenges.
In addition, many also integrate with smartwatches and fitness trackers, allowing you to monitor your progress with the utmost precision.
So, whether you want to train for a marathon, boost your endurance or simply stay active and consistent, there’s an app to guide you every step of the way.
How Running Training Apps Can Contribute to your Training
Running training apps can be incredibly helpful for runners of all levels, providing structure, motivation and real-time feedback that is virtual. They offer personalised training plans tailored to specific goals, whether it’s building endurance, increasing speed or preparing for a marathon.
Plenty of apps use GPS tracking to monitor distance, pace and elevation, which can be great to measure your performance but also track your progress over time – there’s nothing more satisfying than noticing personal improvement as a direct result of consistency and hard work.
Features like virtual coaching, interval training and audio-guided runs keep workouts engaging and effective – perfect for people who tend to get a little bored while running.
Social features, such as leaderboards and challenges, add motivation by allowing users to compete with friends or a global community. Overall, with expert guidance and data-driven insights, these apps make training smarter and more enjoyable than ever before, expanding the world of running and making it more accessible than ever before.
Top 7 Apps for Running Training
Runna
Launched in 2021 in the UK, Runna is a structured training app designed by professional running coaches to help runners of all levels, from complete beginners to elite athletes. It offers personalised plans tailored to specific goals, such as running a 5K, 10K, half marathon, a full marathon and even ultramarathon of different distances.
The app provides detailed weekly schedules, strength training exercises and guidance on recovery and nutrition. But, what really sets Runna apart from its competitors is its expert-driven approach, making it feel like having a personal coach in your pocket. It also integrates with Garmin, Strava and Apple Watch, ensuring seamless tracking.
Runna has become especially popular amongst the UK’s younger running community, being promoted by plenty of “running influencers” (both competitive athletes and recreational runners).
Run Keepa
Run Keepa, developed by Asics, is most loved for its easy-to-use interface and accurate GPS tracking. It helps runners stay on top of their progress with real-time stats on pace, distance and calories burned.
The app offers personalised training plans, audio coaching and goal tracking to keep users motivated. Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability, making it a favourite among casual and serious runners alike.
However, what really sets it apart is its seamless integration with fitness devices like Fitbit and Apple Watch, as well as its ability to track a wide range of activities, from running to cycling and hiking
Strava
Launched in 2009, Strava is more than just a running app – it’s a social fitness platform that combines GPS tracking with a competitive edge.
It’s particularly popular among runners and cyclists who love to compare their stats and take on segment-based challenges, and for this reason, in many parts of the world, it’s easily the most commonly used apps among runners.
Strava’s unique “segments” feature allows users to compete for the fastest times on specific routes, fostering a strong sense of motivation and the fact that this can be used all over he world just adds to he fun.
The app also provides detailed analytics on pace, elevation and heart rate, making it ideal for serious runners looking to improve. Its community aspect, where users can follow friends, join clubs, and share achievements, is what truly sets it apart.
Couch to 5K
Couch to 5K is specifically geared towards amateur runners and it was developed by the UK’s NHS in 2011.
The app offers simple yet structured plan to help runners with no prior experience to successfully complete a 5-kilometre run in just nine weeks.
The Couch to 5K app provides audio coaching from celebrity trainers, pacing guidance and gradual progression to make running feel achievable.
What makes it really stand out is its accessibility and beginner-friendly approach, making it a great choice for those intimidated by traditional training plans and group running situations. Since it’s free and government-backed, it’s widely trusted by new runners across the UK.
Zombies, Run!
Launched in the UK in 2012, Zombies, Run! is a unique running app helps make running and working out fun. Designed as an interactive audio game, it places runners in a post-apocalyptic world where they must complete missions and escape zombies while running.
The story unfolds through dynamic voiceovers, making it a really fun and engaging way to train. It’s great for those who struggle with motivation, as the gamified experience keeps things exciting.
What sets it apart is its storytelling element, which transforms mundane runs into thrilling experiences, making it one of the most entertaining training apps available.
Nike Run Club
Nike Run Club is a completely free running app that offers a mix of guided runs, training plans and social features. It provides expert coaching from elite Nike athletes and trainers, with real-time audio guidance for pacing and motivation.
The app tracks distance, pace and elevation while integrating with Apple Watch and other fitness devices. What makes it stand out is its high-quality coaching content and motivational community, where users can challenge friends and join global leaderboards.
Unlike many other training apps, all features are free, making it a fantastic option for runners who want premium coaching without a subscription.
RunKeep
RunKeeper is one of the most popular running apps, known for its easy-to-use interface and accurate GPS tracking. It helps runners stay on top of their progress with real-time stats on pace, distance, and calories burned.
The app offers personalised training plans, audio coaching, and goal tracking to keep users motivated. Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability, making it a favourite among casual and serious runners alike.
What makes it different from other apps is its efficient integration with fitness devices like Fitbit and Apple Watch, as well as its ability to track a wide range of activities, from running to cycling and hiking.