Figuring out the best way to start running is tough.

Fortunately, a whole selection of apps can help you start a new running habit safely.

Heres a look at the top beginner-friendly running apps available now.

Person running beside a river

The Home screen explains your run and walk intervals for each day.

Tap theStartbutton to get moving.

Friendly audio cues tell you when to warm up, walk, run, and cool down.

C25K app Home screen

The screen displays how much time you have in each interval, as well as the total time remaining.

The first week is free to try, and subsequent weeks require a subscription.

For absolute beginners, C25K is a proven, well-loved choice and the best option overall.

C25K app jogging screen

Review beginner-friendly guided runs on theRunscreen.

Additional guided runs introduce you to speed work and longer distances.

Plus, more collections include inspiring athletes' stories, speed runs, and treadmill runs.

C25K app walking screen

you might opt to include notes about your effort and location for a more detailed picture of each run.

Download:Nike Run Club foriOS|Android(Free)

3.

With options for cycling, kayaking, rock climbing, and more, it’s perfect for multi-sport athletes.

Nike Run Club app guided first run

To go for a run, tap theRecordbutton, thenStart.

The screen displays time, split average pace, and distance.

Add friends to get their workout data on the dashboard, as well.

Nike Run Club app guided run screen

This straightforward, no-fuss app has everything a new runner needs to start exploring your area on foot.

Download:Strava foriOS|Android(Free, subscription available)

4.

It’s a belovedapp that actually makes fitness fun.

Nike Run Club app screen for completed run

With over 500 unique story missions, there are plenty of adventures to enjoy.

Every run is unique with this app, even if you’re circling the same block in real life.

TheHomescreen offers information about the next mission, as well as home workouts and training plans.

Strava app challenge screen

TheBasescreen lets you build Abel Township, while theCodexlists achievements, artifacts, and gathered supplies.

Although the game-like storytelling aspects of the app are fantastic, it also operates well as a running app.

For the most part, this imaginative, immersive app offers tremendous motivation for new and experienced runners alike.

Strava app goal screen

Download:Zombies, Run!

foriOS|Android(Free, subscription available)

5.

Its clean layout and variety of tracking data make it a favorite among athletes.

Strava app run screen

To begin, hit the large greenStart Runbutton in the center of theRunscreen.

Audio prompts tell you when to switch between walking and running.

Lastly, aMusicoption lets you play music within the app.

Zombies Run app home screen

Meanwhile, thePlansscreen offers a variety of options to get started with 5K, 10K, or interval training.

TheProgressscreen shows mileage, pace, and more for the week, month, year, and all time.

MapMyRun

Best for mapping out routes beforehand, the MapMyRun app features a simple user interface and tracking ability.

Zombies Run app run screen

It’s also among thebest Galaxy Watch workout appsfor fitness on your wrist.

Tap theStart Workoutbutton to get moving.

While you’re working out, the screen displays time and distance covered.

Zombies Run app completed run screen

An audio prompt tells you when to start running.

When you’re done, hit thePausebutton, thenHold to Finishto record the completed workout.

Review past workouts on theExplorescreen, which also includes a section to view your friends' runs.

Run Trainer app run screen

Push your monthly distance by joining challenges on theChallengescreen.

Lastly, theDashboardscreen displays weekly performance, any training plans, and a detailed summary of past runs.

In addition, search for popular routes all over the world on theMapMyRunwebsite.

Run Trainer app home screen

Bookmark the chosen route, which will appear in the app to try out later.

For many athletes, MapMyRun is a fantastic way to discover new routes and record workout data with ease.

Run Trainer app history screen

MapMyRun app weekly performance screen

MapMyRun Training Plans screen

MapMyRun app past workouts screen

MapMyRun website NYC route