FREE RunKeeper Review

One of the quintessential fitness apps available for the iPhone is the omni-functional, highly praised RunKeeper. I know I’m not the only one to think so; in 2008, RunKeeper won Best Outdoor Use App in our very own Best App Ever awards, and is nominated again this year (for 2010) as Best Fitness App. Alongside its brilliant socially integrated site, the team behind this app has been working constantly on updating and improving it to become one of the apps I use most, and most often recommend to others. I’m glad to give a rundown and highly suggest folks check try this app if they’re looking to track their fitness either with a new routine for the new year, or for their everyday efforts.

For those not yet familiar with the RunKeeper site, they’ll be amazed at how user-friendly and simple it is to use. Before delving into the app, I’d suggest poking around the site first to get a feel on how the community works. I used the site for quite a while before I ventured into using the app to track my routes, pace and lots of other aspects of my jogging goals. In last few years they have really expanded on the types of activities that can be tracked, and it is all so easy to enter, and retrieve – especially with other users, by building a ‘Street Team’. Both the site and the app are also easily integrated with Facebook and Twitter.

The app itself has also come a long way in the last few years. It works best for runners and joggers, with its built-in GPS and pretty high-tech pace\speed tracking, and heart-rate monitor and other Fitness accessories compatibly. One of the most recent updates included an auto-pause feature to stop tracking for when I’m stuck at a traffic light; a very common occurrence for urban runners. One of the most helpful features I found was the audio updates (which can be custom set) for during an activity. Even when listening to a playlist, which can be started from within the app, it provides voice-updates on the current pace, time, distance and more. Great for long runs, or training for specific distances.

I used RunKeeper last spring exclusively to train for a 10K race, and wouldn’t have been able to so without this helpful guide, and the support from the social team online. Even though an injury prevented me from running the race, I continued to use the app and site for tracking and motivation for other work-outs after I healed. It’s the only app I use to track my gym progress (when I actually go), and think that it is perfect for both the seasoned athlete and newcomer alike.

iPhone Screenshots

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