Now that we have a firm handle on just how important exercise is, it’s become all the rage. People are running to shed those pounds, stay in shape, and hopefully live a slightly longer, happier life. Running is fine and dandy, but it’s also boring and difficult to do correctly. Let’s check out the best running apps for Android to help you run the right way.
Adidas Train and Run
[Price: Free]
Adidas Train and Run is a fitness application with a focus on running from an equipment company that knows a thing or two about running. This one includes a whole bunch of free training programs to help you get into shape and stay that way. You can also use GPS to track your route, pace, and distance. It was designed to work with the company’s Fit Smart device but there are a variety of compatible devices you can use as well.
Get it now on Google Play!
Couch to 5K by RunDouble
[Price: Free / $1.59-$3.20]
Couch to 5K (abbreviated as C25K) is a running app built specifically for beginners. It includes a bunch of workouts to follow to go from being a couch potato to running a 5K race. It uses the popular C25K methods that were previously available and has simply put that methodology into application format. It works pretty well and you can try it out before you buy to see if it’s the right app to get you out running.
Get it now on Google Play!
Endomondo
[Price: Free with in-app purchases]
Endomondo is a very popular running application with over 10 million downloads to date. The app comes with a variety of features including the ability to track your fitness by measuring speed, duration, distance, and even estimated calories burned. It also lets you keep a log, set goals, and there is even audio feedback to help keep you motivated. It’s well designed and easy to use which makes it great for experts and beginners alike. It also has support for a bunch of wearable devices along with MyFitnessPal nutrition info integration.
Get it now on Google Play!
Get Running
[Price: $2.99]
Get Running is a newer running application that has started out with a very good rating on the Google Play Store. This is another app that utilizes the C25K method of learning and, as such, is geared toward beginners and intermediates. It features audio feedback, the ability to let you plan your fitness routines, social media support, and more. It’s a solid application that does what it needs to do without too many bells and whistles.
Get it now on Google Play!
Google Fit
[Price: Free]
Google Fit is Google’s fitness application that comes with most Android devices. It has one of the more stable Android Wear experiences out there and recent updates have made the app itself more powerful. You’ll have a step counter, graphs to track your fitness, and even a calorie counter to show how much you’ve burned. It’s very simple, totally free, and worth a shot since many of you have this app on your device already.
Get it now on Google Play!
See also: 15 best Android apps of 2015102
Map My Run
[Price: Free with in-app purchases]
Map My Run is an app that focuses on allowing you to track and plan your routes with GPS. It also has a few additional features that are a bit unique. For instance, it has a gear tracker that lets you keep track of things like your running shoes so you know when you’ve run your old pair out. It also comes with some additional fitness features and nutritional data. If you go “MVP” (buying the pro version), you can get additional features such as heart rate analysis, training plans, and live tracking.
Get it now on Google Play!
Nike+ Running
[Price: Free]
Nike+ Running is one of the most popular running apps out there. It comes with the standard set of features such as tracking your fitness, elements to help you stay motivated, and a plethora of training videos, programs, and routines. The interface could probably use a little more Material Design, but the general consensus among users is that this app does very well. There is even a competitive aspect that lets you challenge friends.
Get it now on Google Play!
Runkeeper
[Price: Free with in-app purchases]
Runkeeper is another very popular running app with a high rating on Google Play. It features Material Design and the interface is both gorgeous and easy to use. With this app you can keep track of running pace, speed, distance, and calorie burn and you can even account for things like elevation. It also comes with training routines for 10K, half marathon, and full marathon runs. It’s geared for intermediates but is friendly for beginners and experts alike.
Get it now on Google Play!
Runtastic
[Price: Free with in-app purchases]
Runtastic is arguably the most popular running and fitness app out there. It also has a very respectable 4.5 rating in the Google Play Store. It comes loaded with features, including Android Wear support, support for various Bluetooth fitness devices, GPS maps, fitness tracking, and advanced stats about your fitness. There is even a live cheering feature that lets your friends cheer you on. It’s definitely geared for experts but it’s friendly enough for intermediates and beginners, although beginners may be a bit overwhelmed at first.
Get it now on Google Play!
Strava
[Price: Free with in-app purchases]
Strava is right up there with Runtastic as one of the more recognizable names in fitness software. Strave offers the basic features like fitness plans, activity tracking, GPS tracking, and fitness planning. You’ll also get a few fun features like social training, photo sharing, competition via leaderboards, and more. It comes with support with a bunch of Bluetooth fitness accessories and you get even more features if you use the web version.
Get it now on Google Play!
Related best app lists:
If we missed any great running apps for Android, tell us about them in the comments! To see our complete list of best app lists, click here.
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