New to Running? › Running Apps

Running Apps

The right app can make running more fun, structured, or social. Here are the best options for beginners — from gamified adventures to serious training plans.

Zombies, Run! screenshot

Zombies, Run!

Adventure & Fun
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The app places the runner inside a story where they must complete missions and sometimes speed up to escape zombies. This storytelling and gamification can make running feel less like a workout and more like an adventure.

Subscription required
INTVL screenshot

INTVL

Adventure & Fun

Helps beginners enjoy running by turning it into a competitive game. Uses GPS tracking to let runners "capture territory" on a map based on the routes they run, allowing them to compete with others and climb leaderboards.

Strava screenshot

Strava

Tracking & SocialFree
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Focused on tracking performance and social sharing. Records runs, shows statistics like pace and distance, and allows users to share activities with friends. A great tool to see progress over time. Note: some beginners might feel discouraged by the emphasis on performance comparisons.

Free tier availableSubscription for advanced features

Couch to 5k

4.8/5
Training Plans7-day free trial
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The program is structured around 3 workouts per week, gradual progression using walk/run intervals, and increasing running time while decreasing walking breaks over time. The website acts as a central resource hub, offering training plans (including treadmill and metric versions), beginner running advice, audio guides and app recommendations, and links to gear and additional resources.

$29.99/3 months$49.99/year

Nike Run Club

4.8/5
Training PlansFree
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A free running platform that combines run tracking features, such as pace, distance, and route mapping, with audio-guided coaching and structured training plans for various distances, including 5K, 10K, and marathon training. It also incorporates social features like challenges, leaderboards, and run sharing to encourage accountability and community engagement. Motivational tools such as achievements, milestones, and progress tracking are also incorporated to help reinforce consistency.

None to Run

4.8/5
Training Plans7-day free trial
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A 12-week plan that uses gradual walk/run intervals, starting with as little as 30 seconds of running, and progressively builds up to 25 minutes of continuous running. It emphasizes running for time rather than distance, which reduces pressure and makes the process more approachable for beginners. In addition to running workouts, the program incorporates simple strength training routines to help prevent injury and improve overall endurance.

$39.99/year

Runna

4.9/5
Training Plans7-day free trial
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Personalized training plans tailored to each user's goals, fitness level, and schedule. The app guides users through structured programs for distances ranging from a 5K to a marathon, using plans that adapt based on performance and preferences. It combines workout instructions, pacing guidance, and progress tracking with strength training, mobility exercises, and recovery advice to help improve performance and reduce injury risk. Runna also allows users to adjust their training schedule and sync workouts with devices like smartwatches.

$19.99/month$119.99/year
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