Looking for the best running app to boost your training?
Our comprehensive running app reviews for 2025 will help you find the perfect app for your needs, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner. In this guide, we break down the top running apps that excel in various categories so you can choose the right tool for your fitness journey.
Finding the right running app can be a game-changer for both beginner and serious runners. Here are the best running apps of 2025, each excelling in a different category to meet your specific needs:
With a variety of unique features, one of these apps is bound to match what you’re looking for.
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Nike Run Club offers extensive tracking, coaching, and social networking features without hidden subscription fees. Suitable for beginners to marathon trainers, this app stands out as the best free option available.
The app includes guided and unguided runs for diverse training needs and promotes community engagement through various challenges. A notable feature is the ability to manually log running routes to track running progress and create your own route. It tracks multiple fitness metrics such as running speed, distance, GPS routes, elevation, heart rate, and mile splits, and you can also run app to enhance your running form experience.
Though the interface may initially seem overwhelming, its extensive features make it a valuable tool for runners. The Nike Run Club app is available on both Android and iPhone, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users.
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Price: Free (with Garmin device purchase)
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Garmin Connect offers in-depth performance analytics and is widely recommended for serious runners. It provides detailed historical reports to track training progress and personal records, making it an excellent training tool.
Full functionality requires a Garmin watch, but the absence of monthly fees makes it cost-effective for Garmin users. While the interface can be tricky initially, its features, including pacing strategies and Virtual Pacers, are worth the effort.
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Price: Free (with optional premium features)
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Runkeeper keeps users motivated with various challenges and goal-setting features. It allows for setting measurable fitness goals and tracking progress over time. Audio-guided workouts offer additional encouragement during runs.
The goal-setting and challenge features are particularly useful for motivation. Audio-guided workouts add an extra layer of encouragement, making tough runs manageable. Although some advanced features require a subscription, the free version remains engaging.
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Strava excels in community and social networking features. It allows users to connect with friends, share activities, and participate in challenges, fostering a supportive environment. The ‘kudos’ system adds a social element unique to Strava.
The competitive aspect of Strava, including real-time leaderboards, segments on routes and personalised challenges, keeps users motivated and makes running more engaging. Though the interface can be overwhelming initially, the community features and competitive elements make it a standout choice.
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Price: Subscription-based
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Apple Fitness Plus integrates seamlessly with iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, offering a range of instructor-led classes including treadmill workouts, cycling, yoga, HIIT, strength training, Pilates, and meditation, led by personal trainers.
Users receive detailed metrics like vertical oscillation, running stride length, ground contact time, and heart rate, making it a comprehensive fitness tool. Its seamless integration with Apple devices allows for real-time tracking of workouts and heart rates.
With a variety of classes, there’s something for everyone, from running to strength training or yoga. Although the subscription cost may be a downside, the extensive features and detailed performance metrics make it a worthwhile investment for Apple users.
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The Adidas Running app, formerly Runtastic, provides personalised training plans and a training program for various distances such as weight loss, 5K, 10K, half, and full marathons, including couch to 5k. An initial fitness evaluation tailors the training plan to individual needs, ensuring a personalised experience.
The app’s compatibility with Apple Watch, Zwift, and Garmin Connect makes it versatile for tracking runs. While premium features require a subscription, the free version offers useful features like logging time, distance, calories, and heart rate. Personalised training plans and device compatibility make Adidas Running a top choice for serious runners.
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Choosing the best running app depends on personal fitness objectives and preferences. Whether you want to track runs, map routes, or enjoy music during workouts, finding an app that aligns with your goals is crucial.
Start by listing the features you need and want. Whether you prefer advanced metrics, social networking, or personalised training plans, identifying your priorities will help narrow down your options.
Consider factors like device compatibility, user interface, and cost. Some apps provide free versions with optional premium features; evaluate if the extras are worth it. Also, review the privacy policy of any app tracking your location.
Inputting personal details during setup can enhance data accuracy, ensuring the app provides the most relevant information for your training.
Ultimately, the best running app is one that meets your needs and keeps you motivated. With numerous great options in 2025, you’ll find your favourite running apps and the most popular running apps for the perfect fit in your running journey.
If you’re looking for a more in-depth and personalised running experience, consider investing in a running coach. Here at Coach the Run, we offer a personalised one-to-one training programme, Run Your Best Race, led by London Marathon champion Mike Gratton. With years of experience as an elite marathon runner, Mike provides customised coaching designed to help you reach your running goals and perform at your best.
With this training program, you will receive tailored training plans, individual feedback on runs and workouts, and access to exclusive tips and techniques from our Head Coach, Mike Gratton. You’ll also have direct access to Mike for any questions or concerns.
While this may come at a higher cost than running apps, the personalised attention and guidance from a professional may be worth it for those seeking to improve their performance in races or reach specific running goals.
In the ever-evolving world of fitness technology, running apps have become indispensable tools for runners of all levels. From the comprehensive free features of Nike Run Club to the in-depth performance analytics of Garmin Connect, there’s an app for every need. Runkeeper excels in motivation, Strava fosters a strong social community, Apple Fitness Plus integrates seamlessly with Apple devices, and Adidas Running offers personalised training plans.
Each of these apps brings something unique to the table, ensuring that no matter what you’re looking for, there’s an app that fits your needs perfectly. By considering your personal fitness objectives, desired features, and budget, you can find the perfect running app to take your training to the next level.
So lace up your running shoes, download the app that best suits your needs, and hit the road with confidence. The right running app can make all the difference in your fitness journey.
Nike Run Club is the best free running app, providing excellent tracking and coaching features along with a thriving community, all for free. You’re sure to enjoy your running journey with its user-friendly interface and motivational tools!
Garmin Connect is the best app for advanced metrics, providing in-depth performance analytics and detailed historical reports perfect for serious runners. You’ll love how it helps you track your progress!
Runkeeper is an excellent choice for motivation, offering challenges, goal-setting features, and audio-guided workouts to keep you engaged on your running journey!
Strava stands out with its exceptional social features, creating a vibrant community for runners to connect, share activities, and engage in exciting challenges. You’ll truly enjoy the camaraderie it fosters!
Apple Fitness Plus is the top choice for Apple users, providing seamless integration with your devices and a range of instructor-led classes to enhance your running experience. Enjoy tracking your performance and staying motivated on your fitness journey!
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