I’m starting to get into running and would like an app to help me track my progress, motivate me, and provide a good beginner-friendly plan. What are the top running apps you recommend for someone just starting out? A mix of motivation, training plans, and progress tracking would be ideal for me.
Alright, so for running apps, especially if you’re just starting out, I’d say Couch to 5K (C25K) is practically made for beginners. Like, the “couch” part is literally in the name. It builds you up from “I’m going to die after 30 seconds” to running 5K without collapsing, in like 8 weeks. Simple, effective, and the instructions aren’t all “fitness bro” intimidating. The app pretty much holds your hand all the way through, with audio cues like, “Start running,” or, “You can stop wheezing now, it’s walk time.”
Then there’s Nike Run Club—free, slick, and fancy. It’s not specifically for beginners, but it has guided runs that include pep talks from coaches (and occasionally some pro runners because why not?). It’s like having someone yell supportive stuff in your ear without the cringe motivational T-shirts.
For tracking progress and obsessing over numbers (like pace, calories burned, distance), Strava is solid. Though fair warning: it’s kind of a social app for runners, so you’ll see some overachievers posting 10 miles a day, and it might make you question your life choices. Ignore them. Strava’s perks are its maps and routes, which are great if you’re bored of running the same three loops.
Oh, and if you need a goofy storyline or distractions while jogging, try Zombies, Run!. Yeah, it’s a bit ridiculous, but outrunning zombies can be surprisingly motivating. “Pick up the pace, or you’re dinner” definitely gets the legs moving.
TL;DR: Couch to 5K for structured beginner plans, Nike Run Club for coaching vibes, Strava for tracking, and Zombies, Run! if you’re into apocalyptic drama. Just don’t overthink it—put on your shoes, download whatever sounds good, and start running.
Look, if we’re talking beginner apps, I’ll second Couch to 5K but also say it’s kind of the mainstream answer everyone gives. It’s straightforward, sure, but some people don’t love the robotic structure. Personally, I found Runtastic (by Adidas) to be an underrated gem. It’s beginner-friendly, has clear plans, and includes audio feedback that’s not too overbearing. Bonus: There’s no zombie apocalypse involved.
Now, here’s my hot take—MapMyRun (by Under Armour) often gets overshadowed, but it’s like your reliable friend who doesn’t brag. It’s got beginner-focused workouts, calorie tracking, and even some low-key tips for improving your stride or running form, which is key when you’re starting. It’s not as pump-you-up-coach-style as Nike Run Club, though, if you’re into the pep talk thing.
Also, I know @boswandelaar mentioned Zombies, Run! but let’s be honest, that app isn’t for everyone. Yeah, it’s amusing, but if you’re someone who can barely focus on putting one foot in front of the other, the whole narrative can feel distracting. Personally, I just want an app to tell me “run here, walk here” without adding a storyline to my oxygen-deprived brain. But hey, if you’re into gamifying your workouts, cool, I guess?
Lastly, I’ll throw out a wild card—Runkeeper. Super intuitive, beginner-friendly, and has training plans you can actually adjust based on your fitness level. PLUS, it connects to Spotify, so you don’t have to juggle multiple apps for your power playlist. Less juggling = fewer excuses not to run. Just saying.