Accurate app for tracking distance

Meganthedogmom

So I'm getting interested in running again, and I find it much more enjoyable to do outside rather than on a treadmill. I downloaded the Runtastic app to track my distance and speed, but unfortunately it seems to be very inaccurate.

I ran/walked one direction for what it said was a mile, then walked back the same distance, and it basically said the distance back was 1.5 miles. Also on that day it said I did a 11:02 mile, then the next day it said I did a 7:00 mile! I definitely didn't...

Just curious if anyone has experience with some decently accurate apps. Even if I have to pay a couple bucks for it. I just want accuracy when it comes to distance, which you wouldn't think would be too hard.

Mr_Knight

I use Strava.

coreyreichle

It's not the app, it's your phone. If your phone gets a crappy GPS lock, you'll get crappy distances.

Likely, however, this was an outlier with your device. I've found the more often I use GPS-dependent apps, the more reliable it stays accurate.

That being said, I use runkeeper.

gobonas99

for a phone app, Strava.

That said, the GPS data for any phone app will only be as accurate as the GPS receiver in the phone itself (some phones just don't have the accuracy for a fitness app for running/biking, but are okay for a GPS app for the car).

But...you can use Strava on the computer to map out a route that you'll know the exact distance of, then when you record the route on the app when you go out and do it, you can see how off it is (expect a minor variation, as while running, you may cut corners short, and there are just minor inaccuracies in GPS by nature that could show the route as slightly longer or shorter than what it mapped out as - ie if you map out a 2 mile route, the app may show anywhere from 1.9-2.1 miles when you actually go out and do it).

G33K_G1RL

I've been using runtastic for years. Its accurate within 1-5 % depending on the sport I'd say (it cuts corners on a bike!). It's even more accurate if you use a route. If you use the same path, build it on the map in the website, and select it for your sport. It smooths out the inaccuracies.

However, on my first phone, the gps would randomly cut out, causing the tracking to go haywire (hiking at 800 km/h? Why not!) I'd say try other apps, but the problem may be with your gps and not the app. Something to keep in mind.

I have friends who use endomondo and runkeeper, with similar results.

RLeighP

I use Runkeeper, and I find it to be pretty accurate. But I agree, it's more with the GPS on your device.

Meganthedogmom

I was wondering if it may have to do with my phone itself. It's an iPhone 5S, not really sure how accurate they are compared to other phones.
I'm going to play around with these different apps and take these suggestions. Thank you all for the responses!

rbakedq

I use Endomundo, Runkeeper and Wahoo Fitness all are very close.

mwyvr

Before I bought a Garmin GPS running (and cycling) watch, I used Strava. I still collect run data in Strava so I can see progression over a longer period of time.

Strava has a huge user community and a great many MFP runners are also on Strava so it's fun to link up there and here.

Originally however I chose Strava because I'd tried others and found they drained my phone's power ridiculously fast while Strava sipped gently in comparison. It'll be only as accurate as your phone's hardware and firmware allow it to be but with good hardware it will be more than accurate enough.

Use the free version.

DennyB1964

I tried several and settled on Endomondo. They seem to be as accurate as the next, and they give you a huge amount of data, which is like calorie-free candy to me.

7lenny7

My suggestion is to find a used Garmin Forerunner 305. I got mine from a guy advertising on Craigslist for $45. I love it. It does lack bluetooth however.

Meganthedogmom

7lenny7 wrote: »

My suggestion is to find a used Garmin Forerunner 305. I got mine from a guy advertising on Craigslist for $45. I love it. It does lack bluetooth however.

Thanks for the suggestion. Seems like it may very well be a problem with my phone, so that might be the way to go. Once I get more into it I'll probably head in that direction for accuracy.

mwyvr

A used running watch is a fantastic way to go and might be cheaper in the long run than running with a phone.

Why? I killed one phone display+digitizer ($125 repair) from sweat soaking through to my phone in the SPI belt I carried it in. I bought a Garmin watch the next day but when I do carry my phone (for other reasons) in the belt, it's in a zip lock.

Running watches also have real time pace information and some will also tie into shoe mounted cadence sensor pods; newer units often have cadence sensors built into the watch or heart rate strap. They are conveniently mounted on your arm and many are waterproof, unlike most phones.

lorrpb

GPS itself is neither perfect nor infallible because of satellite movement, atmospheric conditions, solar activity, etc.