Ranking updated
Best running apps in 2026
For free guided runs and training plans, start with Nike Run Club. To log every run and share it with friends, Strava has a free version and a subscription. For a structured plan toward a race, Runna builds one for distances from 5K to ultra, on a subscription. If you run with a Garmin watch, Garmin Connect is where your runs land. Full breakdown, and new running apps worth a look, below.
How we picked: a running app either records the run (GPS, pace, distance) or tells you what to run next (a coach or a plan), and the good ones do both. We checked each app’s own store description for what is free, what needs a subscription and which watches it works with, then added a separate section for new running apps surfaced by real visit traffic from the Censuus ranking.
Best free running app
Nike Run Club gives Nike Members access to hundreds of free guided runs and workouts, with GPS route, pace and heart rate tracking. Strava has a free version that records runs and syncs with Apple Watch, Garmin and Fitbit, with extra features on a subscription. FITAPP records distance, duration and pace by GPS and reads them out as you run.
Running app with a training plan
Runna builds a plan for 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon or ultra, mixing running with strength training, and needs Runna Premium. adidas Running offers personalised plans for all levels with voice coaching. Nike Run Club also has training plans alongside its guided runs.
| App | Best for | Platforms | Price | Watches |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike Run ClubApp StoreGoogle Play | free guided runs and plans | iOS, Android | free | Apple Watch and supported devices |
| StravaApp StoreGoogle Play | logging runs and the social feed | iOS, Android | free version; subscription for premium features | Apple Watch, Garmin, Fitbit and more |
| RunnaApp StoreGoogle Play | a training plan for a race | iOS, Android | plans with Runna Premium subscription | Apple Watch, Garmin, COROS |
| adidas RunningApp StoreGoogle Play | GPS tracking with voice coaching | iOS, Android | free to download | supported devices |
| FITAPPApp StoreGoogle Play | a simple GPS tracker with voice feedback | iOS, Android | free; Premium by subscription | phone GPS |
| Garmin ConnectApp StoreGoogle Play | runs from a Garmin watch | iOS, Android | free | Garmin only |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best free running app?
Nike Run Club offers hundreds of free guided runs and GPS tracking. Strava has a free version for logging runs, with more on a subscription.
Which running app gives me a training plan?
Runna builds plans from 5K to ultra on a Premium subscription; adidas Running and Nike Run Club also offer training plans.