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RunKeeper + iPhone: Better than Nike + iPod?
RunKeeper provides useful info as you run, then uploads it to the RunKeeper site.
Can I gush? RunKeeper is the coolest freakin' iPhone application ever. OK, maybe not for everyone, but it's definitely the coolest for runners, hikers, bikers, and anyone else interesting in tracking their outdoor activities.
Let me explain. This summer the running bug bit me hard, and I'm now running farther and faster than in years past. Consequently, I've grown interested in determining my pace, distance, total run time, and so on.
My first thought was to get Apple's Nike + iPod, which is reasonable at $29--but incompatible with my iPhone 3G. Plus, I didn't want to have to buy a pair of Nike+ shoes or "hack" the Apple sensor to latch onto my own shoes.
Quite by accident, I discovered RunKeeper Free, which leverages the iPhone's built-in GPS to track duration, distance, pace, speed, and more.
All this happens in real-time as you run, but where it really gets cool is at the end: When you tap Save Run, RunKeeper quickly uploads that data to the eponymous Web site, where you can track all your runs and get very specific information about each (such as how fast you were going at any particular point along the way). You also get to see your exact route on a map. It's really, really cool.
You can, of course, play your music while RunKeeper is running, and the app recently added integration with Facebook and Twitter (for those who like to crow about their runs).
I wasn't sure I wanted to carry my relatively big, bulky iPhone with me when I was accustomed to something Shuffle-size. But it happened to fit just perfectly in an old Zune armband case, and obviously, it's great to have both a phone and a GPS with me in case of emergency.
I'm using ad-supported RunKeeper free, which suits me fine. There's a $9.99 Pro version that offers audio cues and support for custom workouts (based on time, distance, and so on)--closer to what you get from Nike+iPod.
If you're a runner, I can't recommend this application highly enough.
Rick Broida, a technology writer for nearly 20 years, is the author of more than a dozen books. In addition to writing CNET's The Cheapskate blog, he oversees BNET's Business Hacks. Rick is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CBS Interactive. Disclosure. Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers. Follow Rick on Twitter at cheapskateblog.
Because that is the truth, no way around it.
The paid version of Runkeeper is definitely worth the money. Having verbal cues with pace, time, and total distance seems like a small thing, but it keeps you from having to constantly check your stats if you're into stat checking. The ability to create custom workouts and Interval routines is also wicked.
The paid version of Runkeeper is definitely worth the money. Having verbal cues with pace, time, and total distance seems like a small thing, but it keeps you from having to constantly check your stats if you're into stat checking. The ability to create custom workouts and Interval routines is also wicked.
another thing i woudl miss is the nike amp watch that lets you pause and resume your workout. raise and lower the volume of the music and get feedback on your current progress. having to dig out the iphone from a fanny pack would be a distraction. for casual runners, this might be a great solution, but for seriious runners who sweat up a storm, i'm doubtful.
Of course, since they are both free, I guess I could do my own comparison. =]
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by cgodefroy2
August 24, 2009 7:37 PM PDT
- There's another running app that's even better. It's called 321Run and contains a great feature for people starting to run or eager to progress: training plans. With 321Run, you can follow a plan that helps you run faster, lose weight or train for a big goal such as a semi or even a marathon. Compared to RK, the free version contains audio cues, which is a nice touch.
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