Training for a marathon requires dedication and a solid plan, and the right app can make all the difference. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, there's a marathon training app out there for you. We've compiled a list of the 11 best apps, offering features like personalized training plans, progress tracking, motivational tools, and even expert guidance. Top contenders include Run With Hal, Nike Run Club, and Runna, each boasting unique strengths to help you reach your marathon goals.
Top app marathon training
1. Run With Hal
Download:
Cost: Free Plan (Free), Hal+ Monthly Subscription ($6.99 per month)
I've tried a bunch of marathon training apps, but Run With Hal is the one that really stuck with me. It's not just another generic plan - it's personalized, designed by the legendary Hal Higdon himself. The app takes your fitness level, schedule, and goals into account, and adjusts the plan as you go. What I really love is the adaptive scheduling, I can just tell the app when I'm on vacation or busy and it works around it. It's a life-saver for actually sticking to the plan and getting to the finish line. With over 180,000 downloads, it's clear that other runners are seeing the same benefits.
Key Features:
- Personalized training plans for any distance
- Adapts to your schedule and fitness
- Tracks your progress and provides guidance
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2. Nike Run Club
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Forget about boring, generic training apps – Nike Run Club is the real deal for marathon prep. This app isn't just about tracking your miles, it's about actually helping you crush your goals. It's packed with expert-led guided runs and training plans, perfect for building your endurance and technique. Plus, the app has a massive community of runners to motivate you and keep you accountable. With Nike Run Club, you're not just training, you're joining a team that's pushing you to become the best runner you can be.
Key Features:
- Guided runs with Nike coaches
- Personalized training plans for various distances
- Community features for motivation and support
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3. Runna
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Cost: Free Trial ($0.00), Monthly Subscription ($17.99)
Runna is a comprehensive marathon training app that offers personalized training plans, voice guidance, and seamless integration with popular fitness trackers. While its plans are challenging yet manageable and its audio cues are helpful, some users find the pacing feature to be a bit cumbersome. The app is pricey compared to other options, and its lack of manual run entry and Android treadmill connectivity is a significant drawback. Despite these shortcomings, Runna stands out for its user-friendly interface, responsive support, and ability to effortlessly sync with Garmin watches, making it a strong contender for serious marathon runners.
Key Features:
- Personalized training plans for all levels
- Guided runs with expert coaches
- Holistic support for runner development
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4. ASICS Runkeeper
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Cost: Free Plan ($0.00), Runkeeper Go ($9.99 per month)
Looking to conquer your first marathon? I recently switched to ASICS Runkeeper and it's totally changed my training game. It's more than just a tracking app - it's a personalized coach in your pocket. Runkeeper offers a huge library of training plans, from beginner to advanced, with guided runs that help you build endurance and speed. Plus, the app's social features keep me motivated and connected with other runners, which is super helpful when things get tough. I've seen my pace and distance improve significantly since I started using Runkeeper, and the app has become my go-to for marathon training.
Key Features:
- Training plans for various distances
- Personalized workout routines for runners
- Progress tracking and performance analysis
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5. Strava
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Cost: Strava Free (Free), Strava Premium ($11.99/month or $79.99/year)
Strava, a popular marathon training app, offers a unique social platform for runners to track their progress, share their experiences, and discover new routes. While the app shines in its ability to connect with a vibrant community and provide detailed performance analytics, it falls short in some crucial areas for marathon training. Users have expressed frustration with the lack of editing capabilities for recorded routes, particularly when GPS signal is lost or the phone dies mid-run. Furthermore, the route search functionality requires users to perform a new search for each route, making route exploration cumbersome. Despite these drawbacks, Strava's comprehensive features, including the ability to create and share custom routes and its detailed pace analysis, make it a valuable tool for serious marathon runners.
Key Features:
- Track runs, rides, and other activities
- Analyze performance with detailed metrics
- Connect with a community of athletes
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Other marathon training app
- adidas Running
- Map My Run powered by Outside
- 5K, Triathlon, Marathon Plans
- running.COACH
- TrainAsONE Running App & Coach
- TrainingPeaks
The most important factors when choosing a marathon training app
- Personalized Training Plans: Look for apps that create custom plans based on your fitness level, goals, and schedule.
- Progress Tracking and Analytics: The app should monitor your runs, track your progress, and provide detailed data to help you analyze your performance.
- Motivational Features: Apps with features like challenges, leaderboards, and rewards can keep you motivated and engaged.
- Expert Guidance: Some apps offer coaching from professional runners or trainers to provide personalized advice and support.