Training for a marathon is a huge commitment, and you need the right tools to stay motivated and on track. There are tons of amazing training apps out there, and finding the perfect one can make all the difference. Luckily, there's an app for everything, whether you want personalized training plans, social support, or just some killer playlists to power you through your runs.
If you’re looking for the best apps to help you crush your marathon goals, look no further. We’ve rounded up the top 12 apps, including crowd favorites like adidas Running, Strava, and Nike Run Club, so you can find the perfect app for your needs and running style. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting out, these apps can help you achieve your goals and make your training journey a whole lot more fun.
| App | Logo | Available On | Reviews | Downloads | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. adidas Running |  | Android, iOS | 4.7/5 | 85M+ | Tracks 90+ sports and activities, Personalized training plans |
| 2. Strava |  | Android, iOS | 4.7/5 | 75M+ | Record everything, Build a support network, Train smarter |
| 3. Nike Run Club |  | Android, iOS | 4.8/5 | 47M+ | Guided Runs with NRC coaches, Expert Training Plans |
| 4. ASICS Runkeeper |  | Android, iOS | 4.7/5 | 35M+ | Guided Workouts, Custom Training Plans, Monthly Running Challenges |
| 5. Map My Run by Under Armour |  | Android, iOS | 4.8/5 | 17M+ | Customizable Training Plans, Personalized Coaching Tips |
| 6. TrainingPeaks |  | Android, iOS | 4.6/5 | 1M+ | Workout recording, Weekly workout summary, Cross-platform compatibility |
| 7. Runna |  | Android, iOS | 4.9/5 | 369K+ | Personalized Training Plans, Live Guided Runs, Holistic Running Support |
1. adidas Running
Personalized training plans, Real-time audio coaching, Detailed performance analysis
Cost:
Free (Free), adidas Running Premium ($9.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 84 million |
| Features | The adidas Running app offers features like GPS tracking, pace and distance tracking, heart rate monitoring, music integration, personalized training plans, and social sharing. |
| Who It’s For | Marathon runners, beginner runners, experienced runners, anyone looking to improve their fitness, and those seeking a comprehensive running training app. |
- Tags:
- Fitness Tracking
- Running Trainer
- Health & Fitness
The adidas Running app is a comprehensive marathon training tool designed to help you achieve your running goals. While it offers a wealth of features for tracking various sports and activities, its strength lies in its dedicated workout plans, perfect for building up to longer distances. With interval training options and the ability to customize your runs, this app caters to both seasoned runners and those new to the sport. While some users have expressed concerns about ads and limited treadmill functionality in the free version, the overall experience is praised for its user-friendliness and comprehensive tracking capabilities.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to use
- Tracks various sports
- Background operation
- Detailed workout tracking
- Intrusive ads in free version
- Limited treadmill support
- Workout plan limitations
Why we chose it?
You know how much I love running, and the adidas Running app has been a game changer for my marathon training! It's loaded with awesome features like personalized training plans that adapt to my progress, detailed run tracking that helps me see how I'm improving, and motivational challenges that keep me pushing for my best. Plus, I can easily connect with friends and compete in virtual races, making it fun and social too!
✨ Read more: app hiking
2. Strava
Personalized training plans, Detailed workout analytics, Motivational community support
Cost:
Strava Free (Free), Strava Premium ($15.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 75 million |
| Features | Strava offers detailed tracking for runs, rides, hikes, and more, social features for connecting with other athletes, route discovery tools, training plans, and performance analytics. |
| Who It’s For | Strava is ideal for runners of all levels, especially those interested in marathon training, as it provides comprehensive tools for tracking progress, analyzing performance, and finding motivation through a supportive community. |
- Tags:
- Social fitness tracking
- Personalized route discovery
- Community support
Strava is a popular marathon training app that offers a unique social experience for runners. While lauded for its robust features like tracking runs, sharing routes, and analyzing pace, Strava has faced criticism for its lack of flexibility in path editing, particularly in rural areas where GPS signals are weak. Users have also expressed a desire for improved route searching capabilities, with the current system making it cumbersome to explore potential running paths. Despite these shortcomings, Strava remains a valuable tool for marathon training, providing a comprehensive platform to track progress, connect with other runners, and discover new routes.
Pros & Cons
- Track runs and rides
- Connect with other athletes
- Analyze performance data
- Create and share routes
- Limited path editing options
- No route search history
- Basic version lacks features
Why we chose it?
Strava is a powerhouse for marathon training because it goes beyond just tracking your runs. I love that it provides detailed analysis of my performance, helping me understand my progress and identify areas to improve. Plus, its social aspect keeps me motivated, allowing me to connect with other runners and share my journey!
✨ Read more: app for bike riding
3. Nike Run Club
Guided Runs by Expert Coaches, Personalized Training Plans for Goals
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 46 million downloads |
| Features | Offers guided runs, training plans, audio coaching, workout tracking, social features, and integration with other fitness apps. |
| Who It’s For | Runners of all levels, especially those seeking a comprehensive marathon training app. |
- Tags:
- Guided Runs
- Training Plans
- Community support
Nike Run Club is a popular marathon training app that offers a comprehensive suite of tools to help runners of all levels achieve their goals. The app features guided runs with expert coaches, personalized training plans, and detailed tracking features to monitor progress. While the app generally receives positive feedback, some users have reported issues with session management and data accuracy, particularly on WearOS devices. Despite these occasional glitches, Nike Run Club remains a valuable resource for marathon training, offering a supportive community and a wealth of knowledge to empower runners on their journey.
Pros & Cons
- Great for marathon training
- Guided runs for various distances
- Detailed tracking and analysis
- Motivational coaching and community
- Session related issues
- Lack of feedback on run ratings
- WearOS bugs on Samsung watches
Why we chose it?
I absolutely love Nike Run Club for marathon training! It's got expert-led training plans that are super motivating, awesome guided runs with Nike coaches that make even the longest runs feel fun, and the community aspect is amazing – you can connect with other runners, share your progress, and even get tips from pros.
✨ Read more: app for running
4. ASICS Runkeeper
Personalized training plans, Guided workouts with audio, Track progress and share journey
Cost:
Free (Free), Runkeeper Go ($9.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 34 million downloads |
| Features | ASICS Runkeeper provides guided workouts, training plans, and activity tracking to help runners of all levels achieve their goals, including marathon training. |
| Who It’s For | Runners of all levels, from beginners to marathon runners. |
- Tags:
- Guided Workouts
- Custom Training Plans
- Monthly Running Challenges
ASICS Runkeeper is a popular marathon training app that offers a wide range of features for runners of all levels. While some users, like those who utilize the free version, appreciate its straightforward functionality for tracking runs and shoe mileage, others wish for more granular tracking options, including categories for common female-specific issues like "hips" and "pelvic floor." Additionally, the ability to edit run data after logging and more reliable GPS tracking are features that some users would like to see improved. Despite these minor drawbacks, ASICS Runkeeper remains a solid choice for marathon training, providing a robust platform for goal-setting, guided workouts, and community engagement.
Pros & Cons
- Tracks runs accurately
- Free version available
- Shoe tracking feature
- Different voice options
- Limited injury tracking
- Cannot edit runs
- GPS tracking can be spotty
Why we chose it?
I've been using Runkeeper for years, and it's been my go-to for marathon training! It's super helpful for tracking my runs, and I love the guided workouts that help me push myself further. Plus, the custom training plans are totally personalized, making it easy to reach my goals without feeling overwhelmed. With Runkeeper, I feel confident I'm on the right track to crush my next marathon!
✨ Read more: app for tracking workouts
5. Map My Run by Under Armour
Personalized training plans, Real-time GPS tracking, Motivational community support
Cost:
Free (Free), MapMyRun Premium ($5.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 16.6 million downloads |
| Features | Track runs, get personalized training plans, access workout routines, join challenges, find running routes, connect with a community of runners, analyze performance data, and more. |
| Who It’s For | Runners of all levels, from beginners to marathoners, looking for a comprehensive training and tracking app. |
- Tags:
- Customizable Training Plans
- Personalized Coaching Tips
- Inspiring Community Support
Map My Run by Under Armour is a comprehensive marathon training app that has garnered a loyal following among runners of all levels. Its robust feature set, including personalized training plans, detailed stats, and syncing capabilities, has made it a popular choice for runners who want to track their progress and stay motivated. While some users have experienced issues with app functionality and the auto-pause feature, many others, like one user who has used the app for years across various terrains and training cycles, sing its praises for its reliability and helpful tools. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a newbie taking your first steps, Map My Run offers a powerful platform to support your journey toward the finish line.
Pros & Cons
- Tracks routes and distance
- Provides pace and time data
- Offers challenges and stats
- Syncs with other fitness apps
- Audio feedback may not work
- Auto-pause feature may be lacking
- May require frequent app updates
Why we chose it?
MapMyRun is my go-to for marathon training because it's packed with features that make it easy to track my progress and stay motivated. I love the personalized training plans that adjust to my fitness level and goals, and the community aspect really keeps me going! Plus, the in-depth analytics give me a clear picture of how my training is going, so I can make adjustments as needed.
✨ Read more: app for tracking mileage
6. TrainingPeaks
Personalized training plans, Workout tracking and analysis, Progress monitoring and insights
Cost:
Free (Free), Premium ($19.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 1.3 Million |
| Features | TrainingPeaks offers structured workout plans, performance analysis, training load management, and integration with popular fitness devices. |
| Who It’s For | Endurance athletes of all levels, especially those training for marathons. |
- Tags:
- Workout Tracking
- Goal Setting
- Progress Monitoring
TrainingPeaks is a powerful marathon training app designed to help you achieve peak fitness for your next big race. With its granular approach to training, you can tailor your plans to your specific goals and preferences, whether you crave in-depth detail or prefer a more general overview. The app boasts a wealth of data and seamlessly integrates with your favorite devices and apps, offering a comprehensive view of your progress. While some users have expressed frustration with its reliance on internet connectivity and limited device compatibility, it's undeniable that TrainingPeaks provides a robust and effective platform for marathon training.
Pros & Cons
- Precisely plans for peak fitness
- Granular or general training options
- Intuitive user interface, loads of data
- Integrates with other apps and devices
- Does not work offline
- Limited device compatibility
- Difficult to repeat workouts
Why we chose it?
I'm a huge fan of TrainingPeaks for marathon training! It's packed with features that make planning and executing your training super easy. I love the structured workouts, detailed analysis, and ability to connect with my coach directly through the app. Plus, it integrates seamlessly with my GPS watch and other devices, which keeps everything synced and accessible.
7. Runna
Personalized training plans, Syncs with devices, Holistic runner support
Cost:
Free Plan (Free), Runna Premium ($14.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 369,000 downloads |
| Features | Runna provides personalized training plans, guided runs, strength training, and holistic support to help runners of all levels achieve their goals, including marathon training. |
| Who It’s For | Runna is for anyone who wants to improve their running, whether they're training for a marathon, a 5K, or just want to get started with running. |
- Tags:
- Personalized training plans
- Syncs with your devices
- Holistic runner support
Runna is a comprehensive marathon training app that provides personalized plans, guided workouts, and detailed insights to help you reach your goals. While the app boasts impressive features like seamless syncing with Garmin devices and challenging yet manageable training programs, some users have expressed frustration with the pacing feature's inflexibility and limited functionality. While the audio cues and workout plans are generally well-received, some users find the pricing a bit steep, especially considering the lack of manual run entry or Bluetooth treadmill connectivity for Android users. Overall, Runna remains a strong contender in the marathon training app landscape, but its shortcomings may leave some users feeling like it falls short of its full potential.
Pros & Cons
- Challenging marathon training
- Effortless Garmin watch sync
- Responsive customer support
- Good audio cues on watch
- Expensive for features
- No manual run entry
- No Bluetooth treadmill connect
Why we chose it?
I'm a huge fan of Runna for marathon training! It's personalized, so you get a plan tailored to your goals and fitness level. Plus, it integrates with all my favorite devices, so I can track my progress in real time. Runna also offers expert coaching, strength training plans, and injury prevention tips – everything you need to crush your marathon!
8. VDOT Running Calculator
Calculate training paces efficiently, Equate race performances precisely
Cost:
Free (Free), VDOT O2 Premium ($14.99/year)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 185,000 downloads |
| Features | Calculate training paces, equate race performances, adjust for heat and altitude, and compare race results at different distances. |
| Who It’s For | Marathon runners looking for a scientifically-backed app to optimize their training and performance. |
- Tags:
- VDOT Calculation
- Race Paces
- Training Paces
The VDOT Running Calculator is a powerful marathon training app that helps runners determine their optimal training paces, but it could be even better. While users appreciate the app's core functionality and scientific foundation, some find the input methods cumbersome and lack of data retention frustrating. Suggestions for improvement include replacing the scrolling dial input with text boxes, saving user data, and incorporating additional metrics like weight, height, resting heart rate, and a range for pace calculations. These additions would make this marathon training app even more precise and user-friendly, helping runners unlock their full potential.
Pros & Cons
- Calculates VDOT paces
- Provides training paces
- Easy to use interface
- Helpful for marathon training
- No input history saved
- No weight/height input
- Lacks resting heart rate
Why we chose it?
Hey runners! You know I'm a big fan of training smart, and that's why I love the VDOT Running Calculator. It takes the guesswork out of marathon training by giving you scientifically-backed paces for every workout. Plus, it lets you compare your performances across different distances, which is super helpful for planning your race strategy. And since it's based on the work of legendary coach Dr. Jack Daniels, you can be sure you're getting the best training possible!
9. Run With Hal
Personalized training plans, Adaptive schedule flexibility, Goal-oriented progression
Cost:
Free Plan (Free), Premium Subscription ($14.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 180,000 |
| Features | Run With Hal offers personalized training plans that adapt to your schedule, fitness, and goals, incorporating Hal Higdon's coaching for various running events, from 5Ks to marathons. |
| Who It’s For | Runners of all levels looking for a comprehensive and adaptive marathon training app. |
- Tags:
- Personalized training plans
- Adaptive Scheduling
- Hal Higdon Coaching
Run With Hal is a marathon training app that leverages the expertise of renowned coach Hal Higdon to create personalized training plans. While the app offers a unique approach to adapting plans to your schedule and fitness level, users have raised concerns about its intuitiveness and accuracy. Some find the generated plans perplexing, especially regarding pace calculations and workout intensity. While they appreciate the coaching tips and motivational phrases, they wish for greater customization, like the ability to schedule two separate weeks or incorporate strength training into the plans. The app's lack of workout reminders, voice prompts during runs, and running maps also leaves room for improvement. Despite these shortcomings, the app shows promise as a tool for those seeking structured guidance from a well-respected coach, but it requires further refinement to fulfill its potential as a truly comprehensive marathon training app.
Pros & Cons
- Provides coaching tips and plans
- Offers encouraging phrases during workouts
- Adapts to your schedule and routine
- Includes workout plans for marathon training
- Not very intuitive to use
- Workout plans may not be personalized
- Missing key features like reminders
Why we chose it?
Run With Hal is a fantastic choice for marathon training because it’s personalized to your schedule, goals, and fitness level. The app is built on the legendary coaching of Hal Higdon, so you know you're getting expert guidance, and it adapts to your life so you can stay on track even if things get busy. I love that it tailors my workouts based on my feedback, making sure it's challenging but achievable, which is exactly what I need to conquer that marathon finish line!
10. running.COACH
Personalized training plan for all levels, Dynamic adaptation based on progress
Cost:
Free Plan (Free), Premium ($9.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 73 thousand downloads |
| Features | The app provides individual training plans, adapts workouts based on your progress, offers training logs, pace and distance tracking, and integrates with fitness trackers. |
| Who It’s For | Marathon training app for runners of all levels, from beginner to advanced. |
- Tags:
- Personalized training plans
- Dynamic workout adjustments
- Expert coaching guidance
running.COACH is a highly-rated marathon training app that offers a personalized and dynamic training plan tailored to your individual needs. While users praise its precise training plans, ability to adjust, and responsive coaching features, some have reported issues with app crashes and mid-run recording interruptions. These glitches, however, don't detract from the core value of running.COACH: its ability to help you reach your marathon goals with a plan designed specifically for you.
Pros & Cons
- Precise training plan
- Coach's personalized replies
- Adjusts to your race
- Suited for marathon training
- Crashes viewing run details
- Subscription issues, double charges
- Recording stops mid-run
Why we chose it?
I'm a big fan of running.COACH! It's helped me nail my marathon training with dynamic training plans that adapt to my progress. I love that it's personalized, taking into account my goals, fitness level, and even weather conditions. Plus, having access to expert advice from a European champion like Viktor Röthlin is a huge plus!
11. Marathon Trainer
Free trial for first week, Detailed training plan creation, Personalized progress tracking
Cost:
Free Plan (Free), Premium Plan (US) ($9.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 19,000 downloads |
| Features | The app offers a comprehensive training plan, progress tracking, personalized training plans, and integration with fitness trackers. |
| Who It’s For | First-time marathoners and those new to running |
- Tags:
- Easy-to-follow training plans
- Personalized progress tracking
- Expert Coaching and Support
Marathon Trainer is a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to conquer their first marathon. This app provides a structured and achievable training plan that seamlessly blends running and power walking, making it ideal for beginners. While users appreciate the app's reasonable schedule and helpful guidance, some have expressed a desire for more customization, such as the ability to edit workouts. While a recent crash during a final run has highlighted a potential technical issue, overall, Marathon Trainer offers a solid foundation for building endurance and reaching the marathon finish line.
Pros & Cons
- Great starting point for beginners
- Helpful and reasonable training schedule
- Easy to use and understand
- Provides guidance and motivation
- Limited workout customization options
- App can be prone to crashing
- Not suitable for advanced runners
Why we chose it?
Marathon Trainer is my go-to app for marathon training because it's incredibly user-friendly and breaks down the distance into manageable chunks. I love that it features a run/walk program, which makes it perfect for beginners like me. Plus, its audio cues keep me motivated throughout the entire training process, which is essential when you're pushing yourself to new limits!
12. TrainAsONE Running App & Coach
Personalized training plan creation, AI-driven adaptive training guidance
Cost:
Free Plan (Free), Premium Plan ($14.99/month)
Download:
Application information
| Category | Health & Fitness |
| Downloads | Over 16,000 downloads |
| Features | TrainAsONE offers personalized training plans, adaptive workouts, progress tracking, and expert coaching for runners of all levels, from beginners to marathoners. |
| Who It’s For | Marathon training app for all runners, from beginners to seasoned marathoners. |
- Tags:
- Personalized training plans
- AI-powered coaching
- Real-Time Data Tracking
TrainAsONE is a marathon training app that's designed to adapt to your individual needs and goals, taking you from your first 5k to the finish line of a grueling ultramarathon. While some users have noted initial accuracy issues with pace detection, others have praised its flexibility, integration with Garmin watches, and ability to adjust training schedules automatically. It even incorporates a traffic light system to grade runs, preventing overtraining while keeping you motivated. Though still in development, TrainAsONE promises to be a powerful tool for serious marathon runners, offering a personalized experience that can help you achieve your best time, stay injury-free, and ultimately, cross that finish line.. TrainAsONE Running App & Coach
Pros & Cons
- AI-powered training plans
- Garmin watch integration
- Flexible and adaptable
- Injury prevention focus
- Inaccurate speed detection
- Some bugs present
- Light training intensity
Why we chose it?
I love TrainAsONE for marathon training because it's like having a personalized coach in my pocket! The AI-powered plans adapt to my progress and even factor in my schedule, which is a lifesaver. Plus, it integrates seamlessly with my Garmin watch, so I can track my runs and get real-time feedback.