The Apple Watch has solidified its position as a premier running partner, offering advanced tracking and a suite of powerful apps tailored to runners of all levels. While Apple’s native Workout app remains a strong starting point, third-party alternatives provide specialized features for structured training, recovery, and navigation.
Apple Workout: A Robust Built-In Option
Apple’s Workout app has evolved into a comprehensive running tool, supporting indoor and outdoor runs with customizable data screens. Users can track metrics like distance, pace, heart rate, and even running power. Recent watchOS updates introduced auto-detection for exercises, cadence tracking, and rolling pace analysis. The app also integrates with platforms like Strava, and watchOS 9 added race-against-your-best-time features and track detection.
Runna: Structured Training for Serious Runners
Runna ($99.99/year) offers guided plans for marathons, injury rehab, and other goals, making it ideal for runners with specific targets. Its structured sessions sync with a calendar, ensuring accountability. Recently acquired by Strava, Runna remains a top-tier choice—though its premium price is best justified for dedicated training blocks.
Training Today: Recovery and Readiness
For those prioritizing recovery, Training Today (39.99 lifetime) analyzes HRV (heart rate variability) to gauge workout readiness. Unlike Whoop or Oura, it updates scores throughout the day, helping users time intense sessions for peak performance.
Nike Run Club: Free and Coach-Led
Nike Run Club (free) stands out with audio-guided runs from elite coaches and athletes. Its Apple Watch app features quick-start options, easy-to-read metrics, and adaptive lighting for low-visibility runs. While treadmill tracking requires manual switching, its social features and expert guidance make it a fan favorite.
Strava: Social Running Simplified
Strava (free/subscription) remains the go-to for runners seeking community engagement. Though its Apple Watch app is basic, syncing Apple Workout data to Strava delivers the best of both worlds: seamless tracking and in-depth post-run analysis.
Athlytic: Holistic Recovery Tracking
Athlytic ($29.99/year) excels in recovery insights, analyzing sleep, HRV, and training load. Designed for high-mileage runners, it offers a comprehensive dashboard to optimize performance and avoid burnout.
WorkOutDoors: Customizable and Map-Centric
For stats-heavy runners, WorkOutDoors ($7.99) provides unmatched customization, displaying up to 300 metrics and offline vector maps. Its breadcrumb navigation and elevation color-coding make it a top pick for trail runners.
Watch to 5K: Beginner-Friendly Coaching
Watch to 5K ($4.49) is the best Couch-to-5K app for Apple Watch, offering phone-free audio coaching and syncing with Apple Health. Its intuitive interface helps new runners build endurance over eight weeks.
RunGo: Voice-Guided Exploration
RunGo (free/premium) boasts 400,000 preloaded routes with voice-guided tours, ideal for visually impaired runners or explorers. Premium features include live tracking and interval training.
Simple Interval Timer: No-Frills Intervals
SIT (free) is a straightforward interval trainer, letting users customize work/rest sets directly from the watch. While it lacks audio cues, its simplicity appeals to runners who prefer manual control.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beginner or a marathoner, the Apple Watch ecosystem offers a running app for every need—from Apple’s polished Workout to niche tools like RunGo and Athlytic. The right choice depends on your goals, budget, and preferred training style.
