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In the era before smartwatches like the Apple Watch, runners relied on various gadgets and methods to track their workouts. These included standalone pedometers for step counting, GPS watches for monitoring distance and speed, and heart rate monitors for fitness enthusiasts. Some even turned to online platforms like MapMyRun, Runkeeper, and Strava to record and analyze their fitness progress.
With the advent of the Apple Watch, all these tools have converged into a single, comprehensive device that simplifies tracking essential metrics during fitness activities. For runners, a range of apps is available to monitor distance, pace, heart rate, calories burned, elevation, altitude, route tracking, mapping, and more. In this article, we will explore the top five Apple Watch apps that every runner should consider.
1. The Workout App
The native workout and fitness app integrated into the Apple Watch has seen continuous improvements with each new iOS and WatchOS update. While it may not offer the extensive customizations found in third-party apps, it covers a wide range of features that cater to runners' needs. Using this app is straightforward.
Runners can open the app on their Apple Watch, select the running workout, and view default details such as distance, calories burned, run time, and pace. Users have the option to customize their workout settings to display only the metrics they care about.
For those with consistent workout routines, creating a shortcut on your iPhone to display on the Apple Watch face makes tracking even more convenient. Additionally, Siri integration allows you to start a run with a simple voice command like, "Hey Siri, start a 5KM Outdoor run."
2. WorkoutDoors
WorkoutDoors is an app that provides personalized workout screens, custom interval training, and colour-coded local maps for runners using the Apple Watch. While it requires a one-time subscription fee of about RM30, the app offers robust customization options, allowing users to create their own fitness dashboard on their watch screen.
Runners can set up specific interval schedules, such as warm-ups and jogs, which are easily synchronized with the WorkoutDoors app on the Apple Watch, eliminating the need to carry an iPhone during runs.
3. Water Minder
Staying properly hydrated is crucial for maintaining overall health, and even more so during a run, as the body loses water through sweat and breathing. The Water Minder app assists users in setting daily hydration goals and provides timely reminders on when and how much water to consume.
This app also tracks other fluids like smoothies, coffee, and tea. Users can choose from different watch faces that display their body's water level, ensuring quick assessments of hydration needs. The Water Minder app is available for about RM23, with additional in-app purchases. Given the importance of staying hydrated, it's a valuable investment.
4. Footpath
Effective navigation is essential for runners, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas. The Footpath app for Apple Watch is a valuable tool that allows users to create personalized routes for their runs. Users can sketch out desired routes, and the app aligns these with existing routes on maps, providing seamless navigation.
It also offers waypoint markers for remembering key spots along the way. Runners can adjust their pace within the app, and it adapts to ensure they complete routes at their desired speed. Additionally, the app provides a live satellite view for checking trail conditions.
5. Nike Run Club
The Nike Run Club app is a free, feature-rich tool for runners using the Apple Watch. It tracks a variety of metrics such as heart rate, elevation, routes, and running pace, enhancing the running experience. The app also offers pre-designed training plans for different goals, from marathon preparation to shorter runs.
It includes a social aspect where users can engage in challenges and connect with the broader running community. Audio-guided runs led by professional athletes and coaches provide expert guidance and motivation. The app seamlessly integrates with Apple Music for those who prefer to run with music.
In conclusion, Apple Watch apps have revolutionized the running experience by providing a one-stop solution for tracking and improving running performance. Whether you opt for the built-in workout app or explore the customization options of third-party apps, the Apple Watch offers a wealth of tools to help runners achieve their fitness goals.
Stay hydrated with the Water Minder app, navigate your runs effectively with Footpath, and track your progress with the Nike Run Club app. The Apple Watch truly offers a comprehensive fitness companion for runners.
Yazliza Razlan is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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