Want to ramp up your running routine? Look to your smartphone for help. The free RunKeeper app allows you to track your activity using your phone’s built-in GPS—no expensive tracking device required!
How it works
The RunKeeper app (available for iPhone and Android phones) allows you to see how far you went, how long it took, what your pace/speed was, how many calories you burned, and the path you traveled. The data is also synched to the RunKeeper website, where you can view a history of all your activities, plus cumulative stats. You can share your progress with friends on Twitter and Facebook or you can add friends to your RunKeeper account to compare stats.
You can create running routes in the app and track how you improve over time. In addition to running, you can also track other forms of exercise using the GPS signal or by manually entering the information on the app or website. The app has optional audio updates that tell you your pace, current time, and how far you’ve run as you go.
Runkeeper integrates with a variety of fitness apps including Fitbit, Garmin, Withings, and more. If you pay for the elite version, “supporters” can watch live broadcasts of your workouts through runkeeper.com.
Pros: RunKeeper does a great job of presenting many helpful statistics in a simple, visually-pleasing design. The progress charts and graphs can be very motivating as you strive to improve your fitness. If you are really into data and numbers, you can get a very detailed breakdown of your progress on the RunKeeper website.
Cons: If you are working toward a specific fitness goal such as a 5K, there are many different training programs available on the RunKeeper app—but most of them are only available for an added fee.
Overall consensus: RunKeeper is a great app to use if you are looking to keep track of your exercise and fitness progress—download it today!
If you’re a Health Advocate member with access to the Wellness Coaching program, reach out to your Wellness Coach for assistance with finding the right wellness resources for you!
