Best Running Apps 2015

It’s that time again–time to review the best running apps out there. I have done a 2012 and  2013 and 2014 edition, but it seems I missed a few years! 🙂 Here we go for 2015!

Strava

Strava is FREE with optional premium version, and it is available for iPhone and Android. If you like to run and ride, Strava is a great app to use. I really like the way that you can see your workouts for the month (in calendar format), color-coded for races, workouts, and long runs. Strava also has a social community, so you can challenge other runners and riders. You can connect with friends on Strava via your social media networks. Once you are “friends,” you can see their workouts in your activity feed and give them props for their training!

Map My Run

This app is FREE with optional premium version, and it is also available for iPhone and Android. Map My Run was purchased by Under Armour a while ago, and it’s another great tool for mapping routes for running, walking, and cycling. My favorite aspect of this app is the ability to map routes in your neighborhood or wherever you’re planning to run. The maps are just like Google maps and you can easily trace a route that will be saved to your profile– complete with mile markers. Like Strava, there is also a social community component. You can follow friends workouts, and likewise, they can see your training.

Nike Plus

Nike Plus is free and available for iPhone and Android. This app allows you to use GPS to track distance and pace. You can also keep tabs on calories burned and Nike Fuel. The app integrates with social media, and you can post to Facebook when you start a run. Your friends can then “like” your post to send you cheers along the way! In my opinion, the best feature of this app is the personalized coaching you can receive–this includes audio cues for your workouts. There is also a photo component to share snapshots of your workouts and challenges to compete against friends and other runners.

Couch-t0-5k

Couch-to-5K is available available on iPhone and Android for $1.99 and totally worth it in my opinion. I am a HUGE fan of this beginner running program, and the app that goes along with it is very helpful for those starting a running program or former runners looking to get back into shape. This app will guide you through the whole Couch-to-5k program, giving you audio cues for your walk/run intervals. If you opt for the Couch-to-5k program, I would definitely recommend purchasing this app!

Runkeeper

This app is FREE and available for iPhone and Android. Runkeeper is fairly simple, lacking some of the bells and whistles you find in some of the other apps. You can track distance, pace, calories, and see them graphically displayed before and after your run. You can also choose to have audio alerts for mileage and pace during your run.

Zombies, Run!

The most expensive (and probably the most fun!) app on this list at $3.99 is available for iPhone and Android. Zombies, Run! is an entertaining way to pass the time during your run. You are chased by zombies in over 160 different missions– creating an instant interval workout! You can run along with your own music, and it’s a great option for beating boredom on the treadmill!