Running apps....HELP

I use runtastic, runkeeper and Zombie Run

yes...all at the same time.....if one fails I have 2 others as a backup lol.

I use CardioTrainer. Sometimes it's a little slow to pick up the GPS signal (when it's really overcast), but I just give myself an extra couple of minutes to fiddle with it (usually just do a task kill and then restart the app, and it's good to go....had to reboot my phone once though)....otherwise no issues whatsoever. Great for running, biking and hiking.

I used to use Runkeeper, but the logging (GPS) wasn't accurate. I don't run on roads so being on trails, it would get confused. When I looked at the map after a run, it would have some crazy path that was pretty far off-route for some spots. I switched to MapMyRun, and I love it! It tracks my pace the whole time so I can look at it later, and it actually maps where I run instead of jumping around like Runkeeper did; I haven't had it go off-course yet.

Runkeeper has always worked fine for me, maybe try again? I've been using it for a year and a half!
If you want RK friends you can add me, my username is determinedbutlazy

Best advice I think is to try ALL of the free ones available (considering you're looking for a free one). Give each one a week and then settle on the one you prefer. I have an Android phone and I have tried Cardio Trainer, RunKeeper, Endomondo and Runtastic. I even also bought a MotoActv watch (an Android-based GPS fitness watch).

I ultimately settled on Endomondo and then bought their Pro app (the free one is great too). It all depends on your preference. While we all want accuracy there are also the aesthetics of the app and then for me the online community was important as well. , Endomondo, for me, has the best online community. Some people may feel differently. Which brings me back to my first point: There are many free ones, give each one a week and then make a decision.

As far as that sportsbra approach I think you should either pick up an armband for your phone (plenty inexpensive ones on ebay) or a waist pouch designed for running/jogging/cycling. I tried the armband also but was always 'hiking' it back up with my other hand which was quite annoying so I went with a waist pouch and bluetooth headsets. Took some trial and error but that was my ultimate jogging solution combo (Endomondo / C25K app / and Pandora blasting away in my bluetooth headsets).

I use Map My Run.

Endomondo simply brilliant

One more reply with another hat on...

I am a software developer and while I primarily develop on other platforms I have messed around with Android a little. GPS is a system service. One app will not get a better signal than others. If they are inaccurate, it is a function of how they relate all the data points and correct when they have more. Consumer grade GPS chips are not super accurate but good programming algorithms can correct that given enough data and some reasonable assumptions (like you are not moving around erratically). However, if you are not getting GPS at all, that is a function of the unit and/or your location an/or buildings/trees/weather/etc blocking satellites and another app won't get a signal either. If two apps are both getting GPS data and one is more accurate, that is a good comparison and it is a better app. But if one doesn't seem to pick up GPS, that is not the app's fault (assuming it does work sometimes).

This is good info. Thanks! (The reasoning you mentioned is why I prefer MapMyRun - The GPS was more accurate, for me at least)

I use the adidas app (micoach). I like that it lets you track your mileage, pace, time and calories. It also lets you create and track a specific training program tailoed to your needs.

I just started to use the Nike Running app (free!) and I love it! It tracks everything: distance, pace, etc., and you can get achievements and share with your "friends" on the app. Pretty fun. You have three options though to place your device: handheld or on your right or left arm using an arm band. Get an armband, it's easy to wear and comfortable and you don't have to worry about holding it. Good luck!

I use iSmoothRun on my iOS device (iPhone 5) and then export it to Runkeeper.

+ iSmoothRun has a GPS mode (for running outside) and a Pedometer mode (for running on a treadmill). This way I can keep track of all my running with one app (most of the other apps are GPS only)

+ It exports the data to other services easily (i.e. Runkeeper, MapMyRun, Movescount) as well as to email or even dropbox. I can easily to to all of my GPX/TCX data.

+ I use it to track my shoe milage (you can select the shoes you are using for a run).

+ I can sync my bluetooth HR monitor, and the HRM data is used when determining calories burned for the workout (more accurate than RunKeeper, that does not use HRM data for calculating burned calories)

+ If you are so inclined, you can set up various interval training scenarios and use the audio queues to follow the training.

I use to use Runtastic, but over the winter I wanted to find something that also had a pedometer mode, and came across iSmoothRun, and never been happier. I export to Runkeeper, so I can track my activities easier on the web. I import my Withings scale data, Fitbit data, and Runkeeper data into another iOS app (TactioHealth) so I can keep track of all weight, steps, and activities all in one place.