Running is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, and with the advent of technology, it’s now easier than ever to track your progress and improve your performance. Running apps allow you to monitor your distance, time, pace, calories burned, and other key metrics. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner, having the right app can help you stay motivated and on track to achieve your goals. In this article, we’ll take a look at the Top 10 Best Free Running Tracking Apps in 2025 that will enhance your running experience and keep you moving forward.
1. Strava
Best for: Social Integration and Advanced Metrics
Strava is one of the most popular running and cycling apps worldwide, known for its robust features and social network integration. Strava offers free tracking for distance, pace, and time, and allows you to compare your performance against other users on segments and challenges. The free version provides a wealth of features, while the premium version adds more in-depth analytics and insights.
Why it stands out:
- Advanced metrics like heart rate, cadence, and splits
- Segment leaderboards for a competitive edge
- Social features: follow friends, share workouts, and join challenges
- Integrates with a variety of fitness trackers and smartwatches
- Ideal for runners looking to compete and engage with a community
2. Map My Run by Under Armour
Best for: Route Mapping and Personalized Training Plans
Map My Run, developed by Under Armour, is an excellent choice for runners looking to map their routes and track their workouts. The app provides detailed maps of your runs and allows you to create custom routes for future runs. It also offers personalized training plans and integrates with wearables like Fitbit, Garmin, and Apple Watch.
Why it stands out:
- Track your running routes with GPS mapping
- Personalized training plans based on your fitness level and goals
- Access to over 600 million routes created by other users
- Syncs with a variety of fitness trackers
- Easy-to-use interface with goal-setting features
3. Runkeeper
Best for: Goal-Oriented Runners and Customizable Workouts
Runkeeper is a well-rounded app designed for runners of all levels. It offers detailed running analytics, customizable training plans, and features like race day reminders. The app also allows you to set goals, track your progress, and receive audio cues during your run to keep you motivated.
Why it stands out:
- Customizable training plans for specific goals (5K, 10K, marathon)
- Audio cues to keep you on track during your run
- Syncs with popular fitness devices
- Progress tracking with weekly and monthly summaries
- Integration with fitness challenges to keep you motivated
4. Nike Run Club
Best for: Motivational Features and Community Engagement
Nike Run Club is known for its user-friendly interface and motivational features. It offers personalized coaching, guided runs, and challenges to keep you engaged. The app syncs with Apple Watch, Garmin, and Fitbit and provides insights into your running stats to help you improve. The community aspect, including challenges and shared achievements, is one of its standout features.
Why it stands out:
- Guided runs and coaching features
- Community engagement through challenges and shared achievements
- Tracks a wide range of metrics like pace, distance, and elevation
- Syncs with various fitness trackers and smartwatches
- Offers free audio-guided runs with motivational tips
5. Adidas Running (formerly Runtastic)
Best for: In-Depth Running Stats and Goal Setting
Adidas Running is a comprehensive app that offers detailed statistics for your running workouts. It tracks key metrics like pace, speed, distance, and calories burned, and it provides in-depth analysis of your performance. The app also offers goal-setting features, allowing you to set and track personal targets. The “coach” feature helps you train effectively for races and events.
Why it stands out:
- In-depth performance stats, including cadence and stride length
- Personal goal-setting and tracking
- Integration with fitness trackers and wearables
- Coach feature for race and event training
- Weekly challenges to help you stay motivated
6. Pacer
Best for: Simplicity and Step Tracking
Pacer is a straightforward app that focuses on basic step tracking and running stats. The app tracks your distance, steps, and calories burned during your runs and walks. While it doesn’t have all the advanced features of other apps, it’s an excellent choice for beginners or anyone who prefers simplicity without being overwhelmed by too many metrics.
Why it stands out:
- Easy-to-use interface with step counting and basic tracking
- Tracks distance, steps, and calories burned
- Supports walking, running, and cycling
- Provides daily, weekly, and monthly progress reports
- No need for a fitness tracker, works with your phone’s built-in sensors
7. Runna
Best for: Structured Training Plans
Runna offers a unique approach with professionally designed training plans aimed at helping runners improve their performance. Whether you’re training for a 5K, 10K, or marathon, Runna offers plans that are tailored to your fitness level. The app also includes a detailed running log, daily reminders, and progress tracking to ensure you stay on target.
Why it stands out:
- Professionally-designed training plans for various race distances
- Personalized daily running schedules based on your fitness level
- In-depth progress tracking and feedback
- Easy-to-follow interface with reminders and tips
- Ideal for runners training for specific events
8. Endomondo
Best for: Multi-Sport Tracking
Endomondo is a versatile app that allows you to track running along with other activities such as cycling, walking, and hiking. The app provides detailed workout tracking, including pace, distance, and calories burned. It also includes a social feature where you can connect with friends, share workouts, and join challenges.
Why it stands out:
- Supports a wide range of sports and activities beyond running
- Detailed performance analysis, including pace, speed, and calories
- Social features to connect with friends and join challenges
- Customizable workout goals and tracking
- Simple and user-friendly interface
9. Stridekick
Best for: Fitness Challenges and Motivation
Stridekick focuses on gamifying your running experience by offering fitness challenges. It integrates with other fitness tracking apps and devices like Fitbit, Garmin, and Apple Health. The app provides insights into your performance and allows you to compete in fun challenges with friends or global users to stay motivated.
Why it stands out:
- Fitness challenges to keep you motivated
- Syncs with multiple fitness tracking apps and devices
- Allows you to compete with friends or a global community
- Tracks distance, steps, and calories burned
- Provides a fun, competitive aspect to running
10. Google Fit
Best for: Integration with Other Apps and Devices
Google Fit is a free, no-frills app that tracks running and walking activity through your smartphone or wearables. The app integrates seamlessly with other fitness apps and services, including Strava, Runkeeper, and more. It provides basic metrics such as steps, distance, and calories burned, making it a solid option for those looking for simple tracking with the ability to sync with other platforms.
Why it stands out:
- Basic running tracking with metrics like distance and steps
- Syncs with multiple fitness apps and devices
- Integration with Google’s Health ecosystem
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Automatically tracks activities without manual input
Conclusion: Choose the Best Running Tracking App for Your Goals
Whether you’re a beginner runner or an experienced marathoner, the Top 10 Best Free Running Tracking Apps of 2025 can help you monitor your performance, stay motivated, and track your progress. Each app offers unique features, from advanced metrics to simple step counting, ensuring that you can find the perfect tool to match your fitness goals. Choose an app based on the features you value most, such as community engagement, structured training plans, or multi-sport tracking, and start running toward your goals today!