All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
Making it to the finish line of amarathonis seriously impressive.
jacoblund/Getty Images
Whats arguably even more admirable: Sticking to a training schedule for several months leading up to the 26.2.
Meet your new virtual running buddies below.
Download if…you want to remember that perfect route you ran a few months ago.
The app also tracks things like mileage, pace, and cadence.
This allows me to really track everything.
But tracking your food is absolutely not necessary to do if you dont want to.)
Download if…a little competition inspires you to work harder.
I am an avid fan of Fitbit; I love the platform, says runnerAja Carter.
It also lets you challenge other users to fitness competitions.
Download if…you want your miles to contribute to a cause.
It provides a win-win situation for everyone!
The app also keeps track of distance and pace.
Download if…you could use some virtual high-fives.
First-time full marathonerAmanda Fluddlikes connecting with friends and running teammates (shes a member ofBlack Girls Run!)
on Strava who can send congratulatory messages after she finishes a run.
You need a lot of encouragement to train through 26.2 milesits a long project, she says.
You might as well get some love from fellow runners as you go.
Liz Upwardfollows workouts from her Garmin Connect app, and then uses Strava to analyze those workouts.
Psst, SELF is on Strava!
Runners of all levels are welcome to become part of our #TeamSELF community!
Download if…youre looking to set (and then beat!)
Jacinta (JC) Carterhas been turning to RunKeeper to coach her through training since 2011.
And the weekly, monthly, and yearly mileage comparison is amazing.
I enjoy challenging myself to run more miles than the previous month.
Download if…you like to run with a virtual trainer.
Guided runs feature running pros like Eliud Kipchoge and Shalene Flanagen offering helpful tips and motivation throughout your workout.
you’re able to also set challenges for yourself, which is great motivation.
NRC isJay Ell Alexanders must-download for daily tracking and monthly challenges.
Download if…you want prerecorded messages from your loved ones to listen to midrun.
Motigo offers the motivation Alexander needs to continue putting one foot in front of the other.
Its a great audio app that features Black Girls Run!
members from across the country, with motivational sayings, Alexander says.
Download if…you find in-depth data reports helpful.
you’re able to even sign up for a training plan for a race.
It allows me to keep better track of my fitness goals, she says.
Upward uses the app with herGarmin Forerunnerby programming workouts into it ahead of time.
Download if…you work with a running coach IRL.
Final Surge is great if you have a run coach.
It allows us to go back and review my progress.
It also helps me plug in strength training workouts to track my holistic training.
Download if…journaling helps you keep track of your training goals.
Download if…you get super nervous before long runs.
I tried to use the app at least once a week to set aside time for processing these emotions.
I love that it helped change my relationship with anxiety and fear, she continues.
Download if…youre looking for a training plan and race time predictor.
Workouts include intervals, hills, and options for cross-training.
