Hey everyone! I am super excited to share something awesome with you – I’ve recently started using the incredible Runna Coaching App, the ultimate training companion for runners.
Runna coaching app creates personalized training programs based on your current fitness level. Whether you’re a beginner starting from the couch or aiming for a marathon, Runna has got you covered.
What sets Runna apart is its ability to provide weekly training sessions tailored to your abilities and paces. For example, I’m gearing up for the Toronto Half Marathon in May, and Runna has crafted a 12-week plan just for me. It’s like having a personal coach, guiding me every step of the way.
Having a clear view of each workout in a week makes planning easier and more effective. It’s like having a roadmap to success, helping you stay on track towards your running goals.
Now, here’s something that truly makes life easier – Runna app seamlessly syncs with Strava and smartwatches. All your recorded workouts are effortlessly integrated into the app, providing a comprehensive overview of your progress.
Plan cost: $17.99/£15.99 monthly or $112.99/£99.99 for the year.
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Smartwatch compatible: Apple, Garmin, Coros, Sunnto
First off all, after you download the app, you’ll need to set it up. Choose your performance level, decide how many times you want to run each week, pick the days you’ll be hitting the pavement, and select your preferred day for a longer run. The app will also ask if you have a race planned and what units you want to use. Instead of your goal time, it figures out your running paces based on your 5K or 10K times, which I wish there was an option to change. And there you go – your plan is ready! You can see the overall plan, but you can only check out the upcoming workouts for the next two weeks, unless you go for the one-year plan.
Now, to get the most out of the plan, I recommend using both the running and strength plans. Runna also organizes free community events, live classes (like weekly yoga and Pilates), and shares articles on mobility, gear, nutrition, and races.
Syncing your smartwatch or Strava to the app will mark off your workouts and send you a nice ‘Well done!’ message. Besides reading running articles, you can also message support for coach input, although I haven’t tried that feature myself.
If you’re a beginner, there’s an 8-week New to Running Plan and a 6-week Return to Running plan for Couch to 5K.
Want to build general fitness? There’s an 8-week Get Fit plan, a 12-week Running Maintenance plan, and an 8-week Hyrox plan that combines running and functional workouts.
Trying to improve your 5KM time? There’s an 8-week training plan that predicts your improvement.
Training for a 10KM? Choose the 10-week plan with varying long runs based on your ability.
Aiming for a Half Marathon? There’s an 8-week fast track plan, a 12-week plan, and a half marathon plan.
Dreaming of a Marathon? Select the 16-week training plan, a 12-week fast track option, or a marathon plan. You can also opt for a 5-week Pre-Marathon baseline.
Feeling adventurous for an Ultramarathon? There’s a 50KM 16-week ultra plan, and for advanced runners, options for 100KM, 110KM, and a whopping 220KM multi-stage 16-week plan.
Targeting a 10-mile run? There’s a 12-week training plan with long runs tailored to your level.
Keen on a Triathlon? Pick from an 8-week Sprint Tri, 10-week Olympic Tri, 12-week Half Iron, or a 16-week full Iron Tri plan (this covers the running part only, not cycling/swimming – at least, not yet!).
Post-race Recovery your thing? There’s a 3-week plan, though it could use more focus on the importance of recovery.
Into Functional Fitness? Try the 8-week functional fitness and an 8-week Hyrox plan.
Dealing with Post-Injury? There’s a 6-week training plan using Run/Walk.
Just had a baby? There’s a 12-week build-back plan after pregnancy, developed with a physiotherapist to support your return to running.
Strength Training
Here’s the cool part – you can add a strength plan to any Runna training plan. This is my favorite thing about the Runna coaching app. You get to choose how many strength workouts you want per week, your ability level, workout length, and equipment preference. I’ve used it on holiday for a quick 25-minute bodyweight workout and regularly in the gym with various weights. I love that you can keep things short and effective alongside your running training – and all the exercises are running-specific! Each exercise comes with a drawing and a video demonstration, so you won’t find yourself Googling workout videos while you’re at the gym.
Is the Runna Coaching App a good choice?
Well, it really depends on what you’re aiming for! I personally found it beneficial to follow the Improver 5K plan and I’m still sticking to the strength training plan. The marathon plan didn’t quite suit me, but I’ve heard many folks finding success with the 26.2km plan. What makes this app stand out is its variety of options, flexibility, and reasonable pricing. It caters to both beginners and experienced marathoners. A tip: don’t stress too much about keeping specific paces on easy runs; go with what feels comfortable on the day (it can vary). And instead of getting hung up on paces, focus on putting in the right effort!
Pros:
– Includes strength training plans
– User-friendly
– Affordable for personalized training
– Offers a wide range of plans
– Adaptable to the number of days you want to run
Cons:
– Not for those just wanting to track daily runs—it’s all about following a plan.
I’ve been using Runna coaching app for my training, and I absolutely love it. But don’t just take my word for it – I want you to experience it yourself. For the next two weeks, you can try Runna completely free! Just use the code ATHLETICO and see if it becomes your go-to app for your next training plan.
So, fellow runners, give Runna a shot and take your training to the next level. I promise you won’t be disappointed. Lace up those running shoes, use code ATHLETICO, and let’s conquer those goals together!