Previously, in order to track the kilometers covered, a runner had to purchase a special device in a sports store - now a gadget can take over this function. Thanks to apps for iPhone and Android, you can not only get acquainted with rich and detailed statistics of sports activities, but also entertain yourself with your favorite music tracks and turn a grueling and boring workout into an exciting game. This article will discuss the pros and cons of the best running and walking apps.
Price: Free +
Run Keeper- "champion" in popularity among runners; a program that is incredibly rich in features and at the same time completely free. Every 5 minutes Run Keeper tells the runner the basic statistics: the speed of his movement, the duration of the run, the number of kilometers covered. However, many sports applications cope with this - why Run Keeper better alternatives?
Although the application is downloaded for free, beginners planning to run seriously are advised to turn to a special paid section, which includes a set of master classes from professional trainers - you will have to pay 749 rubles for the opportunity to use the paid section.
Nike + Running
Price: Free
Nike+ Running- a worthy and very unusual competitor Run Keeper... Thanks to Nike+ Running you forget that running was once a boring activity: all the data recorded by the application are automatically transferred to the site www.nikeplus.ru, where they are transformed into colorful histograms and graphs, very convenient for analysis. Among the features Nike+ Running can be attributed:
There is one aspect in which Nike+ Running loses Run Keeper: application from Nike does not support Russian. However, a user with at least some knowledge of English will not face "translation difficulties".
Endomondo
Price: Free +
Key feature of the program Endomondo is a developed social orientation. For instance, Endomondo is able to compare the athletic performance of one runner not only with the results of random users of the application, but also with the achievements of people from the same area. You can also compete with friends for the title of champion, overcoming the path pre-paved by the application, share your achievements on social networks Twitter and Facebook, comment on the results of friends online.
However, on one social component of the advantage Endomondo don't end there - this running app has other benefits too:
- You can create music playlists right inside the application.
- The program allows you to monitor the level of water in the body and other indicators of physical condition.
- Endomondo- cross-platform application: it is suitable for both iPhones and other gadgets with iOS, as well as Androids and smartphones with Windows.
- Endomondo important not only for running, but also for other sports hobbies - for example, for cycling.
- Endomondo perfectly Russified.
Running software for Android and iOS Endomondo distributed according to the Freemium model - there is also a paid version that costs 229 rubles, the functionality of which is wider. Endomondo Premium allows you to analyze your heart rate, get information about the weather, and get rid of annoying ads.
Zombies, Run!
Price: Free
Download the app Zombies, Run! Recommended for anyone who finds running boring. The user just needs to put on the headphones - and now he no longer makes an evening run, but escapes from the countless hordes of aggressive zombies! Of course, the training is transformed into an exciting quest, during which the user needs to collect artifacts, transfer medicines to those in need, and strengthen their own base. With realistic sound design Zombies, Run! the runner feels that the monsters are literally stepping on the heels - only if he follows the commands that are distributed in the headphones, he will be able to escape from the zombie apocalypse. At the end of the workout, the user gains access to statistics and can find out the running speed, distance covered, the number of calories burned.
For all the originality of the application Zombies, Run! there are a number of disadvantages: Firstly, it is not Russified, which means that you cannot hear the familiar speech in the headphones, Secondly, statistics provided for analysis are rather scarce, third, the requirements for gadgets are serious - the program will not "run" on iPhone with iOS version lower than 8.0.
Trail Mix
Running app for iPhone Trail Mix will not yield Zombies, Run! in nontriviality. In fact Trail Mix – is a music player that adjusts the tempo of the songs from the playlist to the speed of running or walking.
It is useful to go in for sports, and training using the training program is also convenient, interesting and effective. Not every jogger is ready to spend money on a heart rate monitor or running watch with GPS, but many want to measure speed, distance, record and share their results with friends. There is a way out - an application in a smartphone. After reading this article, you can find the best running app for iOS or Android.
Why run with an app on your smartphone?
Firstly, this is your personal assistant and trainer who leads calculation of indicators: the applications have training diaries, the ability to maintain personal statistics and track pace, speed, distance.
Secondly, the application will be additional motivation when it allows you to follow your friends' progress and even virtually compete with them.
Thirdly, will save you time when keeping a workout diary, analyzing and processing records.
And if you also connect to your smartphone heart rate sensor with Bluetooth smart technology, you get a full-fledged running device with heart rate measurement. By the way, many applications can use the fitness bracelet as a heart rate monitor, for example Xiaomi Mi band 2 .
Basically, all running apps are in Russian.
Now let's look at the best running apps for iphone and android, their features, functions.
RunKeeper
One of the most popular sports apps (over 28 million users in 2017). Created in collaboration with Asics. The paid version has a variety of training plans for different purposes, designed by the experts at Asics. In the free version, you can create training plans manually.
Wide range of sports (running, walking, cycling, swimming, rowing, cross-country skiing, Nordic walking, wheelchair riding, etc.). It is possible to connect and fitness bracelets.
- Run of sports shoes (it is convenient to keep track of how long the running shoes have served and is it time to change them)
- Audio statistics (for example, you can turn on the notification “XX km left to the target)
- Goal setting (cover maximum distance, lose weight, etc.)
- Completing challenges (complete tasks and get prizes)
- Workout planning (manual planning and getting ready plans)
- Integration with other programs (Garmin, Google Fit, etc.)
- Find friends (share achievements, stay tuned and cheer)
Runtastic
A more universal application for those who, in addition to running, are fond of fitness, gym classes, and hiking. It is noteworthy that the application calculates how much water to drink. The main difference is working with Android wear, i.e. the app can be controlled directly from smart watches that support Android wear.
Functions are broadly similar to Runkeeper, but the interface is different. The main drawback of the program is the lack of Russian voice commands, but on android the problem can be solved.
It is possible to connect heart rate sensors with Bluetooth smart technology and fitness bracelets.
Nike + Run Club
A more convenient analogue of RunKeeper. NIKE + has a clear interface without unnecessary buttons. Also, the jogging application will allow you to save the route and results (distance, training time, average speed during training). In general, the set of functions is standard. But just like in Nike sneakers, the app is beautiful, simple, minimalistic.
Nike + Run Club is the best running app by a large number of users.
It is possible to connect heart rate sensors with Bluetooth smart technology and fitness bracelets.
Strava
Another simple and enjoyable app for athletes. The opportunities that the user gets with the free version are sufficient for both a beginner and a professional athlete:
- Track distance, pace, speed, climb and calories
- comparison of results in separate training areas
- connection with friends (you can follow the progress of other people, comment and even evaluate their results, share photos)
- running group clubs to join
- synchronization with almost any watch with GPS
It is possible to connect heart rate sensors with Bluetooth smart technology and fitness bracelets.
Conclusions:
In general, applications have approximately the same functionality. All of them are shareware, i.e. there is a set of standard features, and additional chips cost money. Most users have enough free functionality, but see for yourself, it all depends on your requirements and the degree of illness from sports 🙂
The disadvantages of applications are also common. Some users complain about inaccurate GPS. Apps can increase or decrease the actual distance, but before you scold an app, check if it's a smartphone. For measurements to be accurate under any conditions, we advise you to take a closer look at heart rate monitors with gps. For example, the best value for money. Also, the high cost of the full version can be attributed to the disadvantages of some applications.
There are many more running apps than we've covered. The article has selected the most popular, most stable applications to save your time on searches. Try programs from our selection and choose the one that suits you best. We chose based not only on the quality of the application, but also on the popularity among our friends and residents of our city. We chose Strava. What's your choice? Write in the comments.
How to sync Strava, Garmin, Endomondo, Runkeeper and other apps?
Sometimes it is difficult to make a choice in favor of one application, because friends use one, colleagues use another, rivals use a third. Do not put 3-4 applications on smart at the same time! This problem can be solved in two ways:
- set up chain synchronization. For example, from Polar to Strava, from Strava to Endomondo, etc. Provided that such synchronizations are possible in the applications themselves
Once upon a time, the only fitness device was a mechanical pedometer that could do nothing more than register body vibrations that occur when walking or running. These simple devices have been replaced by fitness trackers with fantastic functionality.
You don't need to buy a separate fitness tracker. It is enough to have a smartphone and a special program.
By the way, there are a lot of running apps. To understand them, you need to spend a lot of time testing software for different "chips". Often, programs are released "raw", so in the process of using "various bugs pop up". So which running apps are proven, accurate, and feature rich?
1. Runtastic Running & Fitness
Runtastic is a versatile Austrian developer program. We put it in first place for the reason that in most cases, people who run do not limit their sports activities solely to running. A couple of times a week we do strength training, do fitness or visit the pool. In the summer, we ride a bike. After all, we are corny walking - and this also contributes to the total daily activity. All these elements of an active lifestyle can be taken into account by the Runtastic app as a whole.
Main functions Runtastic
- counts running parameters (speed, distance, time, takes into account vertical movements);
- takes into account the consumed energy;
- fixes the consumption of the water supply and gives recommendations for its replenishment;
- can independently plan routes;
- allows you to play streaming audio from cloud storage in the background;
- keeps a jogging diary showing statistics in graphs and charts;
- when connecting a special sensor, it allows you to record the change in heart rate during a run;
- retrospective viewing of races;
- workout planner.
The application automatically pauses if the user stops moving, and continues to work with further running. In addition, Runtastic integrates with social networks, allows you to see the location of your friends and communicate. It also provides a weekly ranking of the longest distances covered by the app's users.
The app acts as an assistant and trainer. In accordance with the set settings, the program gives audio advice on the pace and time of the run.
2.10K Running: 0-5K-10K Training
The 10K Running app (10 km run) was developed by Israeli programmers for those who have just started their workouts, and after running 10-15 minutes, they can hardly catch their breath. The goal of the program is to help develop physical endurance and increase distance jogging.
The training program is divided into 2 stages
- the first 8 weeks are given to increase the distance up to 5 km;
- the next 6 weeks - to increase the distance to 10 km.
Stages of the daily exercise program
- warm-up;
- the main block is the alternation of running and walking with a gradual shift of the balance towards running;
- completion - the normalization of breathing and heart rate.
The program calculates the time for a particular stage, as well as for exercises within each level. The audio coach issues the appropriate commands. Everything is very simple: you just need to download the application, press the start button and follow the audio instructions.
The workout progress is shown on the smartphone display.
The application is not Russified: all information is given in English. The program does not have its own GPS navigation module, but it is compatible with GPS applications and can draw driving routes. With 10K Running, you will learn to run 10 km at a time in 14 weeks.
3. Runkeeper
According to the statistics provided by the developers, more than 20 million people use the Runkeeper application.
Standard set of functions
- running statistics;
- drawing and building routes;
- audio instructor;
- calorie calculation;
- log of previous workouts;
- own successes and new records;
- socializing with friends;
- view the profiles of friends and their sporting success.
What Makes Runkeeper Different From Similar Programs
- simple and intuitive interface;
- allows you to take photos and quickly publish them in social networks or in the application's news feed;
- the app is compatible and can be integrated with other fitness and health-moderating apps (Garmin, Withings, etc.).
Despite the fact that the design of the Runkeeper application is, to put it mildly, "not for everybody", the program is very easy to use, and most importantly, the functionality is not satisfactory.
4. Nike + Running
In the program from a well-known brand of sportswear, there is nothing functionally that would distinguish it from a dozen of its kind. However, the brand name creates additional appeal: the number of users of the application is measured in tens of millions of people!
What the Nike app can do
- consider the main running parameters and energy costs;
- display the route on the map;
- inform the user about the parameters of his activity by voice;
- memorize personal records;
- play music.
The program pays attention to user motivation. Therefore, it can be used to compete with other runners. And when certain results are achieved, the application takes the user to a new "level".
Experienced Internet users will appreciate the design of the program. The external design is simple and original at the same time. The letters and numbers are large, the most important is highlighted in red. This is what they usually say: an intuitive interface. And this is perhaps the main advantage of the Nike app. The only drawback is that the application works in English.
5. Adidas Train & Run
Rounding out our top running apps is software from another well-known sportswear manufacturer - Adidas. The full name is “Adidas. Fitness and running ". Like Runtastic discussed above, this is a comprehensive app designed for active lifestyle enthusiasts. The treadmill is the core of the application.
The developers have tried to create a program that will maximally motivate you for new sports achievements: a goal is set for a day, a week, a month.
Diagrams reflect progress, thereby increasing the motivation of a person to complete the minimum program. In order to make running more interesting, the application implements the principle of zoning tasks: they are divided into 4 blocks in accordance with the level of difficulty, the overall progress depends on the completion of tasks in all blocks.
Application functions
- counts steps, distance, time, calories;
- tracks the route on the map;
- Supports joint work with a heart rate monitor;
- has the function of voice guidance;
- can be integrated with Adidas fitness bracelet.
The application is fully Russified. The user interface is not satisfactory.
- FACT
Basically, it doesn't matter which top running software you use. The minimum set of necessary functions is implemented in each of the considered programs. Some apps like Nike + Running and 10K Running have a nicer interface. Others - Runtastic, Adidas Train & Run - are versatile and will be useful for those who not only run, but also practice other sports. You will certainly find the application that suits you personally. The main thing is to keep running and be healthy!
My relationship with sports has never been particularly warm. But more recently, I did manage to make friends with dumbbells, a yoga mat and a treadmill. The key role in this was played by the annual subscription to the fitness club and ... a set of a dozen sports iPhone applications, which in the course of natural selection narrowed down to three really useful ones.
It is difficult for a person to do something just like that. Just running, just lifting a heavy barbell or turning circles around the stadium was beyond my strength. Another thing is to put the virtual cup on the personal achievement shelf, “make” that Facebook guy in the 10-kilometer race, and make sure that the personal results scale grows faster than Apple stock. These are the possibilities that sports apps for iPhone and Android smartphones open up.
They help to clearly define training goals, ensure their consistency and the spirit of competition. These are the things that are often lacking for regular amateur training to be truly effective. In addition, the application becomes an indispensable partner. Who else will lift you out of bed on Saturday, reminding you of the "wonderful" five kilometers on wet asphalt in the drizzling rain?
Another advantage is qualified advice. The programs are created with the assistance of experienced trainers, therefore, they help the beginner to avoid common mistakes. They often contain video tutorials and helpful advice on training, exercise technique, nutrition, and recovery.
How sports and fitness programs differ
The application itself is often just the tip of the iceberg. Especially when it comes to running and cycling programs. Behind them are impressive multi-platform services that allow you to plan sports activities, track results, build schedules and share your achievements on social networks. And their use is becoming a part of the way of life for many, by analogy with traditional social networks.
Fitness, strength training, and yoga programs have different goals. They replace the personal trainer for those exercising on their own at home or in the fitness club. Such applications contain an extensive database of exercises with descriptions, video tutorials, selection of the optimal training program and additional advice.
Applications - master classes can be distinguished into a separate category. They are suitable for those who do not want to look for the optimal set of exercises for a long time, diligently enter the results into a calendar and count calories. The user is asked to simply pump up the abs or other muscle group in several stages, designed for several months. You don't have to count and build graphs here, you just need to do what the program prescribes.
IT-word publishes 10 mobile apps for iOS and Android mobile devices to help you with jogging, walking, fitness, yoga and strength training.
1. Applications for running, walking and cycling
There is no need for additional costs or special training to start jogging or walking. At the same time, the results in these sports are very easy to measure and compare. Unsurprisingly, jogging and walking apps are rightfully considered the most popular category.
One of the most iconic runner apps -. It is available to owners of almost any phone - from iPhone, new models on Windows Phone 7 and Android to devices on old Symbian versions. Endomondo uses the built-in GPS receiver of your smartphone to determine the runner's position during workouts. Average movement speed, distance and even calories burned are calculated. You can also listen to your favorite music without leaving the application. Before activating the program, you need to register on the developer's website. Here you can access your statistics, goal setting and the results of other participants. In my case, about a dozen acquaintances turned out to be active users of Endomondo.
The Android smartphone app applies the same principle as Endomondo. When running, walking or swimming, the average movement speed and distance are calculated taking into account the differences in height. In addition, it is possible to see a breakdown of the speed by kilometers of distance traveled, in order to understand at what stage you started to accelerate or decelerate. Subsequently, you can compare each workout with runs a week or a month ago. Calories burned are also calculated, but not in the format of anonymous numbers, but in the form of food - carrots, avocados, and so on.
The purpose of the application is easy to guess from the name. The program is distributed free through the App Store and Android Market, and the paid version of Elite is suitable for experienced runners and lovers of accurate measurements. It provides advanced statistics and additional functions. For example, the paid version allows you to conveniently broadcast a map of your runs to your personal blog or Google Earth. First you need to register on the developer's website, indicating your weight, choosing measurement measures and other information. A separate Sharing tab allows you to customize how your personal profile is viewed by other members of the system. As with the CardioTrainer and Endomondo, the Runkeeper can be used not only for jogging, walking and cycling, but also for swimming. All this is accompanied by graphs, maps and detailed statistics and the ability to post the results to Facebook or Twitter.
2. Apps for fitness and strength training
Personally, I always prefer running an hour or two of the gym or fitness classes. Therefore, the programs for fitness and "hard" training with a barbell and dumbbells interested me most of all. One of the most comprehensive apps in this category is one that can be purchased from the App Store for as little as a dollar. It includes over 1000 different exercises with detailed explanations and even videos. The app will help you create a home workout plan, keep track of your exercise technique and keep track of your results. The All-in Fitness interface is user-friendly and intuitive, and all exercises and their descriptions are automatically downloaded from the server.
A similar functionality to users of Android smartphones, iPhone and iPad offers a free application. Initially, you need to choose the direction of training and set your goals. For example, lose weight or build muscle. The program chooses a training option for the task at hand, and virtual trainers clearly show on video the technique for performing any exercise. In general, the program is designed for home use, as most exercises do not require a machine. The only downside to All-in Fitness and Workout Trainer is that both apps are only available in English.
The "" application for the iPhone boasts a Russian-language interface. The functionality is not so luxurious, but not everyone needs all 1000 exercises to keep in shape. Here are a small number of proven exercises that are conveniently broken down into muscle groups with descriptions and techniques. The best option for a beginner.
In addition to the universal ones, there are also specialized applications of master classes designed for a particular muscle group. They were clearly created specifically for guys who purposely "bomb" the chest or abs before the beach season. The applications are called "Pectoral muscle workout", "Abs workout" (for iOS), "8 minutes for the press" (Android) and so on. The training process is divided into levels that must be overcome one by one. Each level corresponds to a certain number of workouts, designed for several weeks. The exercises are illustrated with videos and detailed descriptions. The applications of this kind are free, but after passing the first level, the rest will be paid. For example, in "Abs Workout" you will have to pay a dollar for the second and third levels.
3. Yoga Apps
The ubiquitous yoga also did not go unnoticed by mobile software developers. Most applications dedicated to oriental practices are designed for girls, so they will not bore you with graphs, tables and calculations. Basically, they provide descriptions of exercises and asanas with detailed instructions for their implementation.
For just a dollar, iPhone and Android smartphone users have access to the "" application. This is an impressive set of 300 asanas, grouped by difficulty level (beginner, intermediate, advanced and guru). Each exercise is accompanied by detailed text, photo and video instructions. And on the 3D models, muscle groups that are subjected to stress are indicated. For the target load of certain muscle groups, a special section "Ready-made recipes" is provided, which contains more than 40 programs for different levels of training and various goals: flexibility, breathing exercises, prevention, health improvement and others. All workouts are recorded in a beautiful calendar with quotes for each day.
Another application "" is intended for Android devices and is distributed free of charge. There are 300 different postures and asanas in the arsenal of the program, which are more than enough for a beginner. In addition to detailed descriptions in Russian and displaying poses on the screen, you can select a set of melodies that accompany the workout, and also turn on the audio instructions mode. And in the premium version, for an additional fee, HD-quality video content, 3D muscle models for each asana and additional exercises are provided.
The program is suitable as a supplement to the main workout on simulators or to running. The fact is that the program contains only relaxing postures and exercises. They will help the body quickly recover from stress. The rest of the application is similar to the previous ones - poses, pictures, descriptions and, of course, relaxing melodies. Yoga RELAX is available in the AppStore for a dollar.
Summary
Finally, I note that no application can replace willpower, which makes us prefer a fitness club or stadium to get-togethers with friends or culinary experiments. But applications do an excellent job of their role as an additional incentive. The easiest way is to cancel your run or slow down by doing it alone or with a partner who is also willing to take a break. It is much more difficult to find arguments for a dozen acquaintances who will ask: “What is so weak?” - comparing your result with yours on the server of this or that program.
Your regular smartphone can turn running into a zombie escape, disco, or history tour of your choice. SovetskiySport has selected the best mobile apps that will count your calories, play your favorite music and shout if you are lazy.
ENDOMONDO
The application, which, according to the developer, is used by about 25 million people in the world. The reason for the popularity of Endomondo lies in its functionality and simplicity.
Free options include a workout diary, calorie counting, route analytics and your progress, customize running playlists, and access to the running community of users to ask any question.
In addition, if the function of a trainer: you set a goal - how much you want to run and at a fast pace, and the trainer day after day aligns you with the progressions of running workouts and monitors your progress.
Platforms: Android, IOS, Windows Phone, Blackberry
Price: basic set of functions - free
GET RUNNING
Training for beginners getting on the treadmill for the first time. The app offers a 9-week running program, after which you will be able to run 5 kilometers at a good pace without stopping.
At the first workout, the electronic trainer will prompt you to run for just a few minutes. The rest of the time you will be walking. The running time will gradually increase. The application has the option of voice instructions: if the coach decides that you are lazy, he can yell at you.
Platforms: IOS, Android
SPOTIFY RUNNING
The app that will transform your run into the best disco of all time. You just need to choose the genres of music you like and start running. The program will do the rest for you. Depending on the pace you choose, it will pick up such tracks that you will fly like on wings throughout your entire distance - be it the first five kilometers or a half-marathon.
Platforms: IOS, Android
ZOMBIE RUN
Two million players and full immersion in a new reality - this is how the trailer version of the ZombieRun app says. Based on The Walking Dead series, it will transform the world around you into a dark place where zombies live.
You will need to run away from the zombies: the application will prompt you when you need to accelerate, find gadgets for you in the form of virtual first-aid kits and set missions to complete - overlaying them on the maps of your city.
Platforms: IOS, Android, Windows Phone, Balckberry
Price: basic package for free, the ability to add missions - $ 2.99
RUNTASTIC
A comprehensive trainer for all types of cardio workouts - be it running, cycling, walking or rowing.
Allows you to keep a workout diary, keeps statistics - including, allows you to compete with other users of the program, counts calories, heart rate zones, need for fluid. Has access to professional training programs for long distance running (including marathon and half marathon), increasing endurance.
As a bonus - the program monitors the condition of your shoes (by analyzing the mileage and coverage you are running on). When it's time to change your shoe, Runtastic will be the first to let you know.
Platforms: Android
Price: basic package - free
