The best fitness apps to help achieve your PB

According to Ben Lucas, endurance runner and Director of Flow Athletic.

These days with so much technology available at our fingertips, there is no reason why we shouldn’t be tracking our workouts, running pace, times, and distances. Thanks to apps and activity trackers, it has never been easier.

Here are some of my favourite apps that can help you achieve your personal best.

RunGap 

RunGap is a workout data manager that centralises all the data from your other apps, whether you use an Apple Watch, Strava or Runtastic. You can view your personal statistics, maps and any other detail for your own workouts and popular running tracks.

TrainingPeaks

TrainingPeaks is another great app that helps you achieve your training goals, no matter what they may be. First you answer a questionnaire, which directs you towards one of TrainingPeaks accredited coaches. There are a bunch of programs available dependant on your goal and where you are at, fitness wise. I personally find this to be a very helpful app, even though I am a fitness trainer, sometimes I don’t really want to create my own program when I am training myself.

Strava

Strava is an awesome running and cycling app that connects you with other runners. It allows you to track and analyse your workouts, share your tracks, and connect with others by liking and commenting on their runs. You can even compete using this app. It is very motivational for runners (and cyclists), especially if you are not part of a running community already.

Charity Miles

Charity Miles gives you an opportunity to turn your run into cash for the charity of your choice, so you’re not only improving your own health, you’re helping others in need. You can solicit sponsors to boost the amount you earn or draw on money from the Charity Miles’ corporate sponsorship pool. While it would be good to see Australian based charities on the list, you can support a variety of charities including The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and Red, the charity founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver to help fight Aids. What I love about this app, aside from that every time you run you’re earning money for a charity is that it syncs with Strava. It also pairs with Apple Health data or the Android pedometer.

Peloton

There’s a lot of hype around Peloton, and for good reason. This is a great app if you’re hitting the treadmill, providing access to experienced running trainers, and allows you to customise your run by duration, kilometres and time. There’s a free month-long trial so you can check out all the app features, but afterwards you can purchase a 3-month Fitness Pass for $16.99. You don’t have to own a Peloton bike or treadmill to use the app. There are also thousands of pre-recorded classes that don’t require any equipment at all. 

5K to 10K Running App

If you’re already running 5K and want to extend your distance, the 5K to 10K running app is the perfect companion to help you push the extra kilometres. If you’re planning to participate in the Real Insurance Sydney Harbour 10k and 5K, this app will help you prepare. Spend just 25 to 70 minutes, three times a week, for nine weeks, and you’ll be 10K-ready!

Real Insurance is proud to sponsor the Sydney Harbour 10K and 5K. Click here to learn more or to register.