GEAR/APPS

Essential Gear You Need to Start Running

Essential Gear You Need to Start Running

You don’t want your gear to be a distraction when you’re running. Our partner Fleet Feet explores the basics: running shoes, comfortable clothing, and moisture wicking socks. Want to get to the next level? Explore GPS devices, handheld water bottles and hydration packs for longer runs.

Running shoes

Plantar fasciitis is a common injury among runners. Learn more about the importance of properly fit shoes and options like shoe inserts as well as self-care tips from Dr. Amanda Fantry, a runner and foot & ankle surgeon with Trinity Health New England Orthopedics.

Additional Gear Articles

Wearable Devices & Smartwatches

Fitness watches offer simple Bluetooth connectivity that makes syncing the device to your smartphone easy.

How to Recycle Your Old Running Shoes

What do you do with your trusty kicks once they’re worn out? Here are some tips from our partner Fleet Feet to recycle, donate and repurpose your old running shoes.

How to Make Your Running Shoes Last Longer

No matter what running shoes you buy they don’t last forever. However, making your running shoes last longer is simple with the proper care. Our partner Fleet Feet shares seven ways to help extend the life of your running shoes and keep your legs happy as you train.

Map Apps

Strava

Track your performance stats and analyze the data afterward. Connect with friends and share your adventures. Build your running community by joining the HMF Events club in Strava.

RunGo

RunGo is the most popular running app for discovering the best routes in the world with turn-by-turn voice navigation. Build your own route, or select one of the over 600,000 routes or 1000s of verified routes, and follow a voice-guided tour.

MapMyRun

This site offers both free and fee-based membership and services. Users can map and log runs, but some of the other services on this website require a premium membership.

Pace Calculators

Active

Pace calculators are useful for both new runners and expert runners. Whether you’re running your first race, trying to PR, or going on a training run, knowing your pace can help you train and run better.

McMillan Running

Use their calculator to learn the best training plan and training paces for you.

Training Apps

Training Peaks

Get the data you need to make better training choices. A free basic plan or premium paid plans are available. More than just running, this app has training plans for cycling, triathlon, and swimming; training articles; podcasts and more.

Nike Run Club

The Nike Run Club App has everything you need to start running, keep running, and enjoy running more. NRC pays attention to your pace, location, distance, elevation, heart rate, and mile splits. NRC lets you connect with friends and other runners through experiences and challenges.

RunKeeper

This app features personalized plans to help keep you on track. The ASICS app provides audio that keeps you updated on your progress throughout your run. In-app challenges, exercise rewards and virtual running groups help you stay committed to your goal.

Thanks to the following partner for contributing content and expertise: