Keep In Check with Running Apps

A few years back, keeping track of your runs is probably difficult. But with smartphones being almost a commodity it is possible now to track your runs and keep a record of all your runs. This is possible because of the inbuilt GPS in smartphones...

There are of course many different smartphones that run on different platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, Symbian... but they all have running apps. Some of the popular running apps out there are:

  

 

[MapMyRun]

MapMyRun tracks your distance, calories, elevation and nutrition. The nutritional info is what makes this app stands out from the other running apps.

 

[Nike+ Running]

Nike+ Running keeps track of your stats and history. You don't need Nike accessories to actually run the app. I have a few friends using this app. 

 

[RunKeeper]

RunKeeper in one of the longest running app out there and is still a favourite for many people. It is free and tracks jogs and cycling. You can also check your stats on the website and share it on FaceBook.

[Endomondo]

Then, there is the one TehTarikDrinker and I personally use. Endomondo is like a social running app. Tracking the duration, distance, elevation and speed of your run is easy with this app. You also get to see your friends stats and history. And it keeps your personal records. You can also access the Endomondo website to check your stats and send messages to your friends.

One thing good about Endomondo is that you can create your own route and share it, or you can always look for a route that someone else has created and challege it. And you can choose between many different kind of sports to track your proress; running, cycling, skating, snowboarding, rowing, etc... you name it.

 

[Track how many calories you burnt for each workout]

You can find out your time for each km/mile; which was you fastest lap time (the rabbit shows your fastest time, the turtle shows your slowest); average speed; average pace. Your friends can also leave you comments for each run. There are so many things Endomondo can do and if you are willing to pay to go Pro you will get access to more options. If you follow the website, there are challenges that you can take up and perhaps win something.

Personally I love Endomondo and I'll keep using it as my running app. But the other apps are great too. It doesn't matter which app you use as long as it is able to track your progress and keep your stats accurately, that is good enough. Using a running app for runs does help. You will know if your pace is too fast or too slow. You know how far you've ran, how long you've got until the finish and your speed. I find that with Endomondo I am able to keep my pace in check, so that I don't push too hard until I exhaust myself or not push enough to give a good run.