2023’s top iPhone and Apple Watch running applications

Wellness is wealth. It’s a well-known adage that highlights the significance of having both a healthy body and mind. Apple firmly believes in this idea and incorporates it into a variety of its products. Running aficionados are also increasingly using iPhone and Apple Watch applications to improve their workouts and monitor their progress in this digital era.

Choosing the best running app for your needs can be overwhelming given the abundance of options available. Be at ease! Whether you’re a novice runner or an experienced marathoner, this article’s list of the top running apps for iPhone and Apple Watch will help you maximize your running experience.

1. ASICS Runkeeper
2. Nike Run Club
3. Adidas Running
4. Strava
5. Garmin Connect
6. Map My Run
7. C25K
8. Running Trainer
9. Peloton
10. Running Walking Tracker Goals
11. Distance Tracker

1. ASICS Runkeeper – Editor’s Choice

The first considerations you have while looking for a running app are its effectiveness and price. What if I told you there is an application that checks off all of these criteria and more? Introducing the Asics Runkeeper app, please.

The platform is thriving because to its user-friendly UI, which serves as your ideal virtual running coach. Set your own goals, and the Runkeeper app will assist you in achieving them swiftly. After downloading the app, you are presented with a set of questions that the algorithm uses to determine your goals. ASICS Runkeeper, for instance, caters to runners looking to set a personal best or professionals preparing for an upcoming race.

The ASICS Running coaches also follow a well-organized schedule to create a selection of audio-guided workouts specifically for you. Choose a personalized strategy that will encourage you to put on your running shoes every day.

You can track your exercises on the move even when you don’t have access to your iPhone thanks to the app’s seamless Apple Watch connection. Also, you can choose the running statistics, such as pace, duration, and distance covered, that you want to hear. Joining in-app challenges or taking part in virtual running groups can earn you rewards.

Pros

• Good for beginners and experts
• Customizable interface
• Seamless integration with fitness apps and wearables
• Trained experts keep you motivated

Cons

• Live tracking is limited to paid version only

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $9.99)

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2. Nike Run Club – Best free running app

Do you require the ideal inspiration to make running a necessary component of your daily routine? If so, you should download the Nike Run Club running app. You can start out slowly with running and quickly develop a habit of it with Guided Runs and Training Programs. The platform stands out as one of the top Apple Watch running apps by providing professional advice and a large user base from which to draw inspiration.

Use Nike Run Club’s Guided Run to receive training from fitness professionals, including Nike legends. You will be motivated to reach your goals thanks to the professionals’ support, advice, and assistance. You may probably find a Guided Run regimen on the NRC app no matter what your objective is—a 5k or a 10k, long or short runs, easy or hard. You can also select one of the Training Programs that have already been prepared by NRC coaches.

Without troubling you, the Run Tracker logs your running pace, distance, heart rate, GPS route, and mile splits. Also, you will always have access to your running statistics if you sync this activity tracker with your Apple watches. The app also has a shoe tagging feature that keeps track of your shoe mileage and notifies you when a pair needs to be replaced.

Pros

• Get trained by Nike legends
• Wide variety of Guided Runs
• Easy tracking of activities
• Shoe Tagging available

Cons

• Less in-depth features
• No suggested route functions

Price: Free

Download

3. Adidas Running – Learn from the experts

Adidas Running is a comprehensive app that meets the needs of runners and is produced by a well-known sports company. This fitness app for the Apple Watch shows your runs in maps, images, charts, and graphs. A tap on one of the previous actions also displays important stats like miles, distance traveled, time, and average speed.

The Adidas Running app’s free version offers simple access to calorie and heart rate statistics as well as real-time GPS monitoring. You also receive regular running statistics, such as your weekly activity, the distance left to reach your goal, etc. If you need motivation, you can join Adidas’ online running community, take part in challenges or training sessions, read blogs, listen to podcasts called «Story Runs,» or all of the above. Oh, and each time you reach a milestone, you are rewarded!

Pros

• Track stats like run duration, distance, consistency, etc.
• Virtual Races to compete with global athletes
• Seamless integration with fitness apps
• Useful for yoga, hiking, cycling, etc.

Cons

• Limited features for advanced runners
• Average community engagement

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $0.99)

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4. Strava – Tracks routes for safe running

If you are familiar with fitness applications, Strava has probably caught your eye at some point. You can compete against other runners and cyclists using the platform, which keeps track of your workouts. You can see a thorough breakdown of your run’s duration, mileage, pace, and other details on your Training Log. Strava frees you from carrying your iPhone thanks to its smooth Apple Watch connection.

The potential of Strava to give consumers a competitive adrenaline rush is one of its most recognized characteristics. Following completion of your activity, the app compares your stats to those of other participants to determine where you rank on the Leaderboard. Nice, huh? Also, you may locate the ideal bike or jogging routes with the Paths feature. To guarantee your safety, you can also let family members know where you are in real time.

You can create a supportive running community on Strava that will keep you inspired. You can also take part in monthly challenges, gather virtual badges, and establish winning streaks. The platform works flawlessly with a variety of apps and gadgets including Fitbit. It is easy and economical.

Pros

• A diverse collection of features
• Strong community support
• Easily compatible with health apps

Cons

• Demands access to personal information
• Expensive

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $11.99)

Download

5. Garmin Connect – Compete with other runner enthusiasts

For anyone who wishes to monitor their fitness, there is Garmin Connect. Garmin Connect teaches you for a healthy lifestyle and keeps you motivated in addition to being an outstanding running app. Choose your favorite option from the wide variety of Training Programs that have been carefully developed by the team of health experts at Garmin Connect. You can use the pre-made running schedules to prepare for 5k, 10k, half-marathon, and marathon races.

When you first launch the app, you see the «My Data» area, which lists your recent 24 hours of activity. You may track your activities, distance traveled, number of calories burned, past heart rate patterns, and more. The period tracker in this app assures you never forget the day of your next cycle, which makes it the ideal choice for ladies. Garmin Connect also enables friendly competition on jogging tracks. An excellent strategy for maintaining motivated!

You may also view health statistics for a week, month, or year using the Calendar feature. On Apple Watch, you can review your own running statistics, accomplishments, and more. Don’t be afraid to alter a training plan to suit your requirements. The platform monitors a number of vital signs, including breathing, oxygen levels, energy, weight, and stress.

Pros

• User-friendly interface
• Accurate tracking of body vitals
• Connect and compete with friends
• Offers access to daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly running stats

Cons

• Issues with synchronization

Price: Free

Download

6. Map My Run – Reliable companion for Apple Watch

One of the top running applications for the Apple Watch is Under Armour’s Map My Run. This strong platform makes it simple to include running into your life thanks to a wide variety of remarkable tracking and training options. Whether you’re a novice, an experienced runner, or an expert runner, the Map My Run app will easily satisfy all of your needs.

This software is very well-liked since it provides easy access to customisable Training Plans along with tailored advice from professionals. Also, you may track your runs directly from your Apple Watch using the platform. So, you may now receive immediate updates on your activities at your fingertips, including information about distance, pace, time, heart rate, etc. Wrist, I mean. You will succeed if you use the GPS-tracked runs with audio-supported professional training.

You can locate secure running routes close to you using the Routes tool. Share your favorite routes with friends, add new ones, and quickly save your favorites. Also, you can modify the training regimens in the app to suit your fitness requirements. You may successfully accomplish your health objectives by integrating your Map My Run account with additional fitness apps like MyFitnessPal.

Pros

• Customizable user-interface
• Wide range of Training Plans
• Accuracy in data collection

Cons

• Limited features in the free version

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $5.99)

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7. C25K – Accurate running stats for you

C25K is the ideal training program for anyone who wants to begin running regularly. The platform works to maintain novice runners’ motivation so they don’t abandon their fitness goals after taking only one step. You have access to a well-organized program that begins with a well-balanced running and walking routine. The app gradually transitions you to intensive running routines as you gain the requisite muscle and endurance.

You must give the C25K app your personal information after downloading it, including your weight, age, desired running pace, etc. C25K establishes the starting point for your running schedule based on the data gathered. The app’s training sessions include notifications from professionals and health specialists as well as guided audio courses. The next stages can be skipped, however only with premium memberships is this feasible.

All of your activities are recorded by the app inside of your C25K account. This includes information like how far you ran, how long it took, how many steps you took, etc. Also, you can use graphs and meters to monitor your daily and monthly development. Earn the biggest smile possible as you reach your running goals.

Pros

• Well-structured Training Plans
• Keeps users motivated
• Graphical representation of stats

Cons

• Issues with data accuracy

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $1.99)

Download

8. Running Trainer – GPS-enabled tracking for runners

If you’re looking for running applications for the Apple Watch and iPhone, Running Trainer is a solid option. The software, which has a simplified UI and is known for its accuracy in distance and time monitoring, contains a number of practical tools. You can always examine your running statistics, previous records, and progress charts thanks to the platform’s flawless integration with your Apple Watch.

Choose your goals, enter them into Run Tracker, and let the program assist you in achieving them naturally. The app directs you by providing aural feedback as you approach your destination each time you put your running shoes on a roll. Moreover, you may easily enable GPS and integrate the app with Maps. You won’t have to worry about figuring out the best route thanks to this.

Your playlists may be streamed while you’re on the go thanks to the app’s simple music player connection. Also, you can link your Run Tracker account to Apple Health to track calorie intake and heart rate data. With Run Tracker’s user-friendly design, you can effortlessly reach your fitness goals while staying active.

Pros

• Simple user interface
• Guided audio feedback
• Integration with music player, Apple Health

Cons

• Occasional lags in tracking

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $9.99)

Download

9. Peloton – Live training sessions at your fingertips

With the Peloton app, you can alter your perspective on physical activities like jogging. Peloton, regarded as one of the top run-tracking applications for the Apple Watch, contains all of the features that both new and experienced runners may require. The webpage provides a special selection of exercises like cycling, running both inside and outside, meditation, and more.

Use the tens of thousands of live and recorded training sessions offered by Peloton’s international experts to quickly establish a fitness regimen. In order to keep the participants motivated and less burdened, the instructors follow an easy-to-learn routine when presenting instructions. The majority of the training schedules on this app last between four and eighteen weeks. You may get important information through a GPS-enabled interface, such as pace, running maps, elevation, etc.

You can also take part in the app’s monthly Challenges, which easily fit into your routine. The Peloton app’s indoor running training session is one of its more intriguing features. Hence, the app keeps you in check even if you are running on a treadmill with interval coaching and energizing tunes.

Pros

• Preloaded training classes
• Training sessions for indoor running
• Seamless accessibility via Apple Watch

Cons

• Explicit language usage by experts
• Issues with live classes

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $12.99)

Download

10. Running Walking Tracker Goals – Reports to keep you motivated

Are you game for the upcoming running test? Choose Running Walking Tracker Objectives to help you reach all of your objectives without putting too much strain on your body or mind. This effective app can be used for bicycling, walking, running, or jogging. The software is entirely customized for the Apple Watch, allowing you to get information about the length, pace, and duration of your runs whenever and anywhere you want. Simply create your profile and change to the training program you want to use.

Use the monthly progress reports to evaluate your running endeavors and maintain motivation. You can identify the advantages and shortcomings of your running routines with the help of the live graphical description of your actions. However, the premium edition of the program is the only one that offers this feature. Also, anytime you reach a milestone, don’t be afraid to show your friends your progress chart.

With the Goals app, you may begin your preferred regimen right from the Apple Watch. Also, you may access additional significant features like a calorie counter, auditory feedback on your actions, live intervals, etc. with the premium edition. After purchasing the paid version, you may now use your Apple watches to monitor your pulse rate while running.

Pros

• Graphical data representation
• Daily and monthly progress reports
• Allows pulse rate tracking using Apple Watch

Cons

• Occasional app crashes
• Faulty reports at times

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $7.99)

Download

11. Distance Tracker – Access important vitals quickly

Running is a physically demanding sport. Most of the time, we neglect to track our metrics while working toward our goal. If you also have these problems, the Distance Tracker app can be your ideal friend. Due to this app’s complete Apple Watch compatibility, you always have access to crucial information throughout a run.

Assess your needs, establish goals, and personalize them by giving them interesting names or inspiring phrases. Also, you can save your previous accomplishments or routes and return to them whenever the mood strikes. With the Distance Tracker app, you have access to precise data of your actions, including the distance traveled, time spent, pace, heart rate, etc. Looking back at your prior successes will give you a boost of drive right away.

Distance Tracker gives you access to numerous other crucial statistics, such as calorie count, weather, temperature, hydration, etc., in addition to running statistics. While working out throughout lengthy schedules, stream your favorite music without leaving the app. The Distance Tracker app also enables you to share your progress updates with pals, similar to social networking. Being an artist while flexing makes sense.

Pros

• Easy-to-customize Training Plans
• Water reminder available
• Smooth music integration

Cons

• Messy record keeping

Price: Free

Download

FAQs

Can I run with just my Apple Watch?

Because Apple Watch includes built-in GPS, you can track your running distance and speed even when your iPhone isn’t attached.

Can I use my iPhone to track my run?

You can track your outdoor workouts using the Health app on your iPhone, yes.

Wrapping up!

With the help of these incredible running apps on your iPhone and Apple Watch, you can easily reach your fitness objectives. These apps function flawlessly for both novice and experienced runners. In addition, downloading them is free, so you can improve your health without spending any money. Woah! What a clever rhyme.

After reading this article, I hope your hunt for the ideal jogging software for the Apple Watch will finally be over. Please share your thoughts in the comments area.