Back5 running apps that can help you go the extra mile
Going for a long-distance run? Try one of these running apps on your smartphone
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Participating in a recent long-distance run taught me two things. First, never forget to carry a bottle of water. Second, get a running app on your smartphone. Whether it’s tracking your timings or the number of calories you burn, these apps can prove helpful.
Nike+Run Club
One of our favourite features is the app’s milestones and attaboys. When you reach a milestone, you get audio feedback on your distance, time and average pace. The best bit is the attaboy (in some funky motivational words) in American actor Kevin Hart’s voice—Hart is himself a runner. Nike+Run Club comes with a “My Coach" option that lets runners design a personalized distance-running plan. The app is visually appealing and you can even integrate your music library to hear tracks as you run.
Available on: iOS and Android
Strava
Strava is like a social media network for athletes. You can record running and cycling activities and compare your performance with those of athletes around the world. You can also test your mettle in monthly challenges that are based on your activities and preferences. Strava’s USP is that it is compatible with the latest GPS trackers and devices. This makes it easy for runners or cyclists to upload their activities on Strava, no matter which GPS device they are using.
Available on: iOS, Android and Web
Endomondo
Endomondo can track more than just cycling and walking. The app allows you to track activities in more than 40 long-distance sports, such as swimming, mountain biking, skiing and hiking, through GPS. The app also gives you audio coach feedback after every mile or kilometre. You have the option of customizing your workout screen based on the metrics you want to track: distance, duration, pace, heart rate, calories, etc. Endomondo is also compatible with devices from companies such as Jabra, Garmin, Withings and Fitbit.
Available on: iOS, Android and Windows Phone
RunKeeper
Features such as audio cues, personalized running routes, music integration and workout schedules tailored to your fitness levels make RunKeeper one of the best running apps out there. It doesn’t matter if you are a newbie runner or a seasoned marathoner, RunKeeper has challenges and a fitness plan for you. You can also share your running progress with friends using the same app.
Available on: iOS and Android
Zombies, Run!
This app is different from the usual track-your-data running apps. In Zombies, Run!, you take on the role of Runner 5, humanity’s last hope during a deadly zombie apocalypse. There are over 200 missions in this running game. All you need to do is wear your headphones, listen to your mission, and start running. Whenever you slow down or hear the zombies getting closer, you’ll have to pick up your pace. With the element of gamification, Zombies, Run! is an excellent alternative if you want to add a little bit of fun to your running routine.
Available on: iOS and Android
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