Whether you're starting your first run or training for a bigger goal, a good running app can make every workout easier to track. GPS routes, pace data, training plans, and progress insights can help turn individual runs into a consistent routine.
We compared eight running apps so you can quickly find the right fit, from simple GPS tracking and guided coaching to trail discovery, social challenges, and detailed performance data.
Data note: Ratings, review counts, and install figures are based on the AppsWM app pages provided for this article and may change over time. Installs refer to the cumulative download milestone displayed by AppsWM. Data was checked in September 2026.
Quick Comparison
1. Running App - GPS Run Tracker
Running App - GPS Run Tracker is built around GPS-based running, jogging, and walking. It tracks distance, pace, speed, calories, elevation, and routes while providing graphs and performance analysis.
It also offers beginner-friendly plans, weight-loss programs, pace training, weekly and yearly goals, and audio feedback from a voice coach.
Best for: Runners who want detailed GPS tracking and structured plans.
Standout: Real-time stats, route maps, goals, and voice coaching.
2. AllTrails: Hike, Bike & Run
AllTrails is a strong choice if your runs take you onto trails. It helps users discover routes while offering maps and planning tools for runners, hikers, walkers, and cyclists.
AllTrails+ adds features including offline maps, wrong-turn alerts, and additional safety and planning tools.
Best for: Trail runners and outdoor explorers.
Standout: Trail discovery, offline maps, and navigation features.
3. Map My Run by Outside
Map My Run combines GPS route tracking with detailed workout summaries, personalized training tools, and progress charts. You can monitor distance, pace, elevation, and other running statistics.
The app also supports goals, achievements, challenges, community interaction, and connections with other fitness apps and devices.
Best for: Runners who want detailed progress tracking.
Standout: Route maps, workout statistics, goals, and community features.
4. adidas Running: Run Tracker
adidas Running supports running and more than 90 other sports activities. It tracks distance, pace, calories, and other workout metrics while offering personalized plans for goals such as 5K, 10K, half-marathon, and marathon training.
Challenges, virtual races, sport clubs, progress tracking, and social features add extra motivation for runners who like a more connected experience.
Best for: Runners who want plans and motivation in one app.
Standout: Training plans, challenges, GPS tracking, and virtual races.
5. ASICS Runkeeper - Run Tracker
ASICS Runkeeper focuses on straightforward activity tracking with GPS routes, pace, distance, time, goal setting, and audio cues. It also offers guided workouts and training plans for different fitness levels.
Challenges, running groups, rewards, and social sharing give runners more ways to stay motivated and compare their progress.
Best for: Goal-focused runners who want guided workouts.
Standout: Audio coaching, training plans, goals, and challenges.
6. Strava: Run, Bike, Hike
Strava brings running, cycling, hiking, and other outdoor activities together. GPS activity recording, performance data, route information, and progress tracking make it useful for runners who like to keep a close eye on their workouts.
Its social side also lets users connect with other athletes and share activities, making community and motivation a major part of the experience.
Best for: Runners who enjoy tracking and social competition.
Standout: Activity tracking, efficient GPS use, and social features.
7. Relive: Run, Ride, Hike & more
Relive gives outdoor workouts a visual twist by turning activities into 3D stories. Track a run, ride, hike, or other adventure and create a shareable video showing the journey.
Distance, speed, elevation, maps, and photos can become part of the finished story, making this a fun option for runners who want to remember and share their routes.
Best for: Runners who love sharing their adventures.
Standout: 3D activity stories and automatic photo integration.
8. Nike Run Club - Running Coach
Nike Run Club combines GPS tracking with guided runs, Training Plans, health and fitness tips, and community challenges. Its plans are designed for runners ranging from beginners to more experienced athletes.
Guided audio runs, running metrics, heart-rate tracking, and community events give users several ways to stay motivated while working toward a running goal.
Best for: Runners who want guided coaching and structured plans.
Standout: Guided Runs, Training Plans, and community challenges.
Which Running App Should You Try?
If rating is your starting point, Running App - GPS Run Tracker leads this list at 4.90. AllTrails and Map My Run follow at 4.80, with Map My Run having the larger AppsWM review count.
For structured training, adidas Running, ASICS Runkeeper, and Nike Run Club are worth a look. If you prefer outdoor exploration, AllTrails is a natural fit, while Strava emphasizes activity tracking and community. For turning your runs into memorable visual stories, Relive offers something different.
