Useful apps for runners

Written By Sanaya Chavda | Updated: Mar 04, 2014, 08:07 PM IST

As the date for the dna ICan Women’s Marathon gets closer, we highlight some useful apps you can use to be race-ready.

1 MapMyRun
A great application (app) for  beginners, it not only offers a GPS-based route tracker but also an activity log which allows you to monitor and share your progress via networking sites like Twitter. Keep an account of your runs including the time, distance, pace, and the calories burned. This app can be used for treadmill running, races, cross-country training and power walking.

Works on: iOS, Android, BlackBerry

Cost: Free, PRO version is for Rs 170

2 Fleetly Fitness
This training app is ideal to get you marathon-ready. It works as a health diary, keeping a record of calories burned, body type, body mass, and workout styles. The app offers medals as you complete your goals, and informs you how much further you need to push yourself. It also features instructional videos by professionals in this field.

Works on: iOS

Cost: Free

3 Runtastic
A motivational app that is best for those who prefer running outside. Frequent runners can keep track of their runs and the weather. Receive inspiring messages from friends, and audio feedback for every kilometre you complete. This app helps you map your entire workout giving you detailed information on speed and duration covered by you.

Works on: iOS, Android, Windows Phone 8, BlackBerry

Cost: Free, PRO version is for Rs 290

4 RunKeeper
Not just limited to walking and running, this popular app enables GPS tracking, monitors distance, speed and calorie levels for various other activities like cycling, hiking and swimming. You can listen and control music during your workout, measure your heart rate and create specific targets for the run.

Works on: iOS, Android

Cost: Free

5 Striiv Activity Tracker
Lazy when it comes to fitness? This app will surely motivate you to run. Turning your smartphone into a pedometer (a portable/elecrtonic device that counts each step a person takes by detecting the motion of their hips), this app helps track your steps when you walk or run. Still better are its motivation devices like the MyLand game. This app has a walkathon feature which lets you walk/run for charity.

Works on: iOS, Android (beta)

Cost: Free

6 Calorie Counter & Diet Tracker by
MyFitnessPal

Fitness and food go hand-in-hand. This calorie-counter app boasts of a vast food database and you can record all your meals. It also has over 350 exercises for cardio and strength-training, and it helps  break down your daily meals into carbs, proteins and fats. It also measures how much your friends and you have progressed.

Works on: iOS, Android

Cost: Free

Compiled by Sanaya Chavda