If you’re into running, and you have an Apple Watch, you can use the best third-party apps to get the most out of the adventure.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a novice runner. These apps can coach and motivate you to keep moving, even in the days when you don’t feel like hitting the outdoor trails.
Of course, I’m familiar with the built-in watchOS Workout app. It monitors how fast you’re moving and how far you’ve gone. But the stats are basic, the suggested routes aren’t as advanced, and you can’t even analyze or share your progress with anyone.
So if you’re serious about running, get Apple Watch apps that can help you monitor your heart rate, create a running plan, get directions to your destination, keep yourself safe, and even choose the best routes for your runs.
Here are some options:
1. Strava
Price: Free, Offers in-app purchases
I love Stravabecause of it social aspect of running. And while it’s not as in-depth on an Apple Watch as it is on an iPhone, it’s still a good option to try out.
First, understand that Strava on Apple Watch is 100% native to watchOS, which means it works independent of the app installed on your iPhone. And it has limited functionality – at least at the time of this writing.
With Strava on your smartwatch, you get:
- Multisport Tracking: Track up to 51 sports activities, including virtual row, Nordic Ski, badminton, indoor cycling, treadmill runs, and outdoor running.
- Heart Rate Data: See how fast your heart beats as you run, and use the data to optimize the intensity of your workout.
- Audio Cues: Get audio alerts when you start, pause, resume, or stop running. Get information about distance and pace as you run.
2. Adidas Running
Price: Free, Offers in-app purchases
With Adidas Running, you can leave your iPhone at home and use your Apple Watch to track your distance, pace, time elapsed, heart rate.
The app gives you the option to turn on your current location with the Live Tracking feature, so other users can see where you’re on a run and cheer you if they think doing so will motivate you to go harder.
You can connect your Airpods or any compatible Bluetooth headsets to your Apple Watch to get audio updates of your activities as you use Adidas Running.
Also, you can upgrade your account to access features not available in the free version. With premium, you can set exercise for distance and duration and gain access to interval training, target pace, and training plans.
3. Couch to 5K Runner
Price: Free, Offers in-app purchases
Couch to 5K Runner is one of the running apps for Apple Watch that enable you to focus on a gradual workout process that mixes walking and running to get you in shape in just two months.
You start with intervals of 5 minutes running and 2 minutes walking, and the app builds up from there. Plus, it throws in little breaks between each walk and run, so you don’t have to sweat too much as you exercise.
To get the most out of Couch to 5K Runner, listen to the guiding audio cues to know when to start running and when to switch to walking. As you progress, the app steps up your running and walking times. And by the end of the two months, you’ll be ready for a 5K race.
Couch to 5K Runneruses your Apple Watch on-board GPS to track your location, your pace, how long you’ve been on a run, as well as how far you’ve gone. Plus, you can link your account to Apple Health to monitor how much calories you’ve burned on a run.
4. ASICS Runkeeper
ASICS Runkeeper is a free and premium app designed to help you cover more miles over time.
The app uses your watch’s GPS to track activities such as running, jogging, and strolling in real time. And as you hit the pavements hard, Runkeeper will record your routes, calories burned, and heart rate.
Runkeeper can even talk to you, making you feel like you have a personal coach right next to you. Simply connect compatible Bluetooth headsets to the watch and the app will announce your stats as you go. You can choose what you want to hear, like your pace, distance, or time.
If you like, you can connect your account to Apple Health and dive deeper into analyzing your workout data.
5. Nike Run Club
Price: Free
Nike Run Club isn’t your typical running app. Think of it as a platform that provides the tools and resources you need to make running a breeze.
First off, you get professional coaches who help you get ready for races. They’ll guide you through training for 5Ks, 10Ks, even half marathons. So if you want some expert guidance to keep you going, NRC can make a difference.
As you run, the app tracks your heart rate, how far you’ve gone, and your pace and elevation. It can even map your routes using Apple Watch’s built-in GPS.
Nike Run Club isn’t about solo runs. There’s a whole community vibe to it, too. You can link up with other runners, chat, share challenges, and cheer each other on.Unfortunately, this feature isn’t available to the watch. You can create challenges only via your iPhone at this time.
6. Workout by Apple
Apple’s native workout app is a good one to use if you’re into indoor and outdoor running.
The app displays your stats on the watch’s screen, so you never have to turn to your iPhone for the basics. Some of the information includes average pace, total calories, duration, active calories, heart rate, and pace.
Additionally, you can scroll the Digital Crown on your Apple Watch to see workout information such as heart rate zone and progress of your activities against the Apple Watch activity rings.
This app even lets you set a reminder, which will prompt you when it’s time to start running and when it’s time to stop.