Top 10 Walking Apps to Track Your Progress

You’re walking more lately, but how do you know if it’s really making a difference? Here’s something to chew on: people who use walking apps tend to walk 20% more. This blog will guide you through the top 10 apps to help track your progress and keep you moving forward.

Ready for a step in the right direction?

Key Takeaways

• Walking apps motivate users to walk 20% more by tracking steps, calories burned, and offering challenges.
• Features like detailed analytics, personalized workout plans, and social sharing can enhance your walking routine.
• Strava encourages a variety of activities beyond walking with global challenges and social networking for extra motivation.
• iFIT offers interactive workouts that simulate walking in different locations around the world from your treadmill.
• CharityMiles allows walkers to raise money for charity with each step they take, combining fitness goals with philanthropy.

Evaluating the Best Walking Apps: Key Features and Benefits

Picking the right walking app feels like finding a needle in a haystack, right? We’re talking price tags that don’t bite, accuracy you can trust, and an interface so easy, your grandma could swipe through it with no sweat.

Price and subscription options

Many walking apps offer free versions… but, you know, with ads. For those wanting to step up their game, premium plans kick in with prices ranging from $2 to over $30 a month. Think of it like this: for less than the price of one fancy coffee each week, you can get extra features such as detailed analytics, personalized workout plans, and ad-free experiences.

It’s all about finding the right fit for your wallet and your fitness goals.

Some apps even sweeten the deal by offering annual subscriptions at a discount—paying upfront for a year could save you bucks in the long run. Just keep in mind—a pricier tag doesn’t always mean better; sometimes, all you need is nestled within the no-cost option.

Keep an eye out for trial periods too; they’re golden opportunities to test-drive premium perks without spending a dime initially.

Metrics tracked and accuracy

Walking apps are like your personal fitness detectives. They keep tabs on every step you take, how many calories you’ve kissed goodbye, and even the path you’ve treasured during your walks.

Yes, they track steps… but it’s way more than a simple step count! Imagine knowing the distance covered with precision that rivals a homing pigeon’s internal GPS. Each app has its own flair for accuracy—some use satellite signals that can pinpoint your location within a few feet.

Accuracy isn’t just about bragging rights; it’s crucial for reaching those health and wellness goals. These apps give feedback that helps adjust workouts, ensuring each walk pushes you just right—not too easy, not taking it overboard either.

Distance, pace, calories burned, and time spent moving are common metrics these tools monitor carefully. And let’s not forget elevation gains for those who love pushing uphill! With this data at your fingertips (quite literally), tracking progress becomes as satisfying as nailing a perfect high five—it feels good and motivates further action.

User interface and ease of use

A clean and simple user interface makes all the difference in walking apps. You want to fire up the app and get going, not scratch your head wondering where to tap next. Good walking apps have clear menus, big buttons, and instructions that feel like a friend talking you through them, not a manual written in code.

Ease of use is crucial because let’s face it – if the app feels like running a marathon itself just to track your steps or log a workout, it’ll end up forgotten on your smartphone’s last page.

The best ones keep things straightforward: one swipe here, a tap there… And voilà! Your walk is tracked, your calories counted, and you’re already looking forward to beating today’s numbers tomorrow.

Best Overall Walking App: Strava

Strava takes the cake for tracking your walks… and then some. It’s like having a fitness coach in your pocket, only cooler.

Features & Benefits (Strava)

Strava turns every walk into an adventure. This app does a stellar job tracking your steps, distance, and pace. Imagine turning a simple neighborhood stroll into a quest for personal bests or joining global challenges that push you further! It’s like having a cheerleader in your pocket.

Plus, you can share your achievements with friends for that extra pat on the back.

But here’s something even cooler – Strava isn’t just about walking. Cyclists and runners find it just as handy. With its GPS tracking magic, mapping out new routes becomes a breeze.

You’ll never get bored because there’s always a new path to discover or create. And let’s not forget the social side of things; connecting with fellow walkers (and runners and cyclists) can turn solitary activities into communal experiences.

Next up, let’s dive into what iFIT brings to the table…

Pros & Cons (Strava)

Now that we’ve explored the features and benefits of Strava, it’s time to weigh the good with the not-so-good. Strava shines in many areas but, like any app, has its own set of drawbacks.

Pros:

1. Tracks a wide array of activities beyond walking, including cycling and swimming, making it versatile for fitness enthusiasts.
2. Offers a robust social network feature, letting users connect with friends for motivation and friendly competition.
3. Provides detailed analytics on performance, helping users to monitor their improvement over time accurately.
4. The Segment feature allows users to see how they fare on specific routes compared to others, adding an element of challenge.
5. Strava’s Heatmap shows popular routes around you, making it easier to find new and interesting paths for your walks or runs.
6. It integrates seamlessly with most GPS devices and smartwatches, ensuring easy tracking of your activities without carrying your phone.

Cons:

1. Basic features are free, but the most useful analytics and comparison tools require a Premium subscription.
2. Privacy concerns have been raised regarding the Heatmap feature potentially revealing sensitive locations if not correctly managed by the user.
3. The competitive aspect can be discouraging for beginners or those who prefer a more casual approach to fitness.
4. Some users find the abundance of metrics overwhelming and would prefer a simpler interface for basic tracking needs.
5. The social network aspect may not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for a more solitary fitness experience.
6. Rural or less populated area users might find fewer benefits from community-driven features like Segments and Heatmaps due to lower user activity levels in their regions.

In summary, while Strava offers comprehensive tracking capabilities and a vibrant community for those seeking motivation and competition, its subscription costs and potential privacy issues could be dealbreakers for some.

Best App for Walking Workouts: iFIT

iFIT takes your walking workouts from “meh” to “wow!” with its interactive sessions. Picture yourself hiking the Alps or strolling through Parisian streets, all from your local treadmill.

Features & Benefits (iFIT)

Walking into iFIT means getting more than just a step tracker. It’s like having a personal trainer in your pocket, but way less noisy. This app serves up walking workouts that can make you sweat buckets or have a chill day—your call.

Think global trails from your local sidewalk and interactive sessions that push you further without making you want to throw your phone.

With this app, location is no barrier—you can be trekking through the Alps while actually pacing around your living room. The GPS tracking keeps things on point, making sure every step counts toward those health improvement milestones.

Plus, calorie counting gets easy peasy; watch those numbers burn away as you stride along with iFIT’s guided journeys.

Pros & Cons (iFIT)

Choosing the right walking app can make all the difference in hitting your fitness goals. iFIT stands out with its unique approach to keeping you on track and motivated. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

1. Interactive Workouts: iFIT offers scenic walks and hikes from around the globe, making each workout an adventure.
2. Personalized Plans: Customizes your walking regimen based on fitness level, ensuring you progress safely.
3. Equipment Integration: Syncs seamlessly with treadmills and smartwatches, boosting your training experience.
4. Extensive Library: Access to a vast collection of workouts means you’ll never get bored.
5. Live Classes: Keeps you motivated with real-time sessions that push you to walk further.

Cons:

1. Subscription Cost: Monthly fees may add up, making it a pricier option for some.
2. Overwhelming Options: The sheer volume of available workouts can be intimidating for beginners.
3. Requires Equipment: For the best experience, especially with interactive features, having compatible equipment is necessary.
4. Internet Dependence: Most features need a strong internet connection to function smoothly.
5. Limited Free Trial: The trial period may be too short for some users to fully explore the app’s benefits.

Next up, let’s jump into what Fitbit App brings to the table for keeping your motivation sky-high!

Best for Motivation: Fitbit App

Need a kick to get moving? The Fitbit App lights that fire under you, turning every step into a win.

Features & Benefits (Fitbit App)

The Fitbit App turns your phone into a fitness-tracking powerhouse. Think of it as having a personal trainer, health coach, and cheerleader all rolled into one. It counts every step you take and tracks the calories you burn with precision.

But it doesn’t stop there—this app also monitors your heart rate, sleep patterns, and offers personalized workout recommendations. Imagine hitting your 10,000 steps goal and getting that satisfying buzz on your wrist—it’s like a high five for your health!

This app is not just about recording numbers; it’s about understanding them to improve your wellness journey. With its easy-to-read charts and graphs, you can see progress over weeks or months, which is perfect for setting goals or crushing fitness challenges with friends.

Plus, the Fitbit community feature adds a sprinkle of motivation by letting you join groups or compete in friendly competitions—who said exercise couldn’t be social? Whether you’re looking to shed some pounds, up your daily step count, or simply get more active throughout the day, the Fitbit App has got you covered.

Pros & Cons (Fitbit App)

Walking your way to fitness seems easy until you actually start doing it. That’s where the Fitbit App hops in, turning steps into strides toward your health goals. Let’s break down the good and the not-so-good about this popular buddy on your wrist.

Pros:

1. Steps tracker keeps you on your toes, literally. You’ll want to beat yesterday’s count.
2. Calorie counting becomes a breeze. Eat a cookie? Take a walk!
3. GPS walking features map out your adventures, no bread crumbs needed.
4. Fitness goal tracking gets personal – set goals customized to you.
5. Motivation oozes from badges and challenges – who doesn’t love a virtual trophy?
6. Sleep tracking – because rest is part of the journey too.
7. Water intake logs keep you hydrated; keep in mind, coffee doesn’t count as water!

Cons:

1. Battery life takes a hit with all-day tracking; nightly charging becomes routine.
2. Premium subscription needed for the best features – your wallet might feel lighter too.
3. Not all phones play nice with the app; compatibility checks are a must.
4. Accuracy issues sometimes arise, especially in densely built areas where GPS can glitch.
5. Fitness is more fun with friends, but syncing issues can rain on that parade.

Top Choice for Accountability: Nike Run Club

If you’re someone who thrives on having a buddy nudge you along, Nike Run Club is like having a motivational speaker in your pocket. It cheers you on, tracks your miles, and basically says, “You got this!

Features & Benefits (Nike Run Club)

Nike Run Club steps up the game for walkers and runners alike, making every step count towards your fitness goals. It’s like having a personal coach in your pocket, cheering you on with specialized coaching plans that adapt to your progress.

The app tracks all the essential metrics – distance, pace, time, heart rate – so you know exactly how far you’ve come…and how much farther you can go. Plus, it syncs seamlessly with other health apps and devices, meaning you won’t miss out on logging any part of your journey.

But here’s where Nike Run Club really shines: its community features turn walking into a shared experience. Share milestones, join challenges or create friendly competitions with friends to keep motivation sky-high.

And let’s not forget those audio-guided runs (or walks) — bringing stories and tips from experts right to your ears as you move. It’s almost like they’re walking right beside you! With this app, tracking steps becomes more than just numbers; it’s about connecting with others and pushing yourself further than yesterday.

Pros & Cons (Nike Run Club)

Nike Run Club takes your walking workouts to the next level. It’s like having a friend who’s always ready to hit the pavement with you, rain or shine.

Pros:

1. Free to use – Nike Run Club doesn’t cost a dime, which is great for keeping both your body and wallet in shape.
2. Motivational coaching – The app offers audio guidance from Nike coaches and elite athletes, giving you that extra push when you need it.
3. Social features – You can share your successes and compete with friends, making fitness a fun, shared journey.
4. Personalized plans – Get custom training plans specific to your goals, whether you’re just starting out or gearing up for a race.
5. Tracks all the essentials – From pace and distance to heart rate and mile splits, it keeps tabs on every important metric.

Cons:

1. Battery drain – Using GPS for tracking your walks can take a toll on your phone’s battery life.
2. Accuracy issues – Sometimes the GPS tracking isn’t spot-on, which might affect the accuracy of your workout stats.
3. Limited features offline – Without an internet connection, some of the app’s best features are out of reach.

Now let’s lace up our sneakers and move on to the next app that’s stepping things up in walking fitness: MapMyWalk.

Leading App for Tracking Metrics: MapMyWalk

If numbers are your jam, MapMyWalk is like hitting the jackpot. It turns your walks into a numbers game—tracking every step, turn, and calorie with precision.

Features & Benefits (MapMyWalk)

MapMyWalk is a GPS walking app that makes tracking your steps a breeze. With this app, you can see your route on a map and get details about your pace, distance, and the calories you’ve burned.

It’s great for setting fitness goals and watching yourself reach them day by day. You don’t need to guess how far you’ve walked or worry about mapping out routes before leaving the house—MapMyWalk does all that heavy lifting for you.

This app also lets you join challenges, compete with friends, and share your achievements on social media. It turns walking into a fun game. Plus, if motivation is what you’re after, seeing progress in real-time keeps that pep in your step.

Whether it’s pushing yourself to walk further each week or competing in virtual races, MapPeek gives walkers of all levels something to strive for beyond just getting steps in. And because it syncs with other fitness apps and devices, keeping track of every aspect of your health becomes seamless.

Pros & Cons (MapMyWalk)

Walking is a great way to stay fit. MapMyWalk can help make it fun and rewarding. Here’s a look at what’s good and what could be better:

Pros:

1. Tracks your steps accurately, giving you instant feedback on your progress.
2. Offers GPS walking routes, so you never get bored by taking the same path.
3. Allows you to set fitness goals, keeping your motivation sky-high.
4. You can join challenges to spice up your walking routine, making every step count even more.
5. MapMyWalk integrates with other health apps, layering your data for a complete health picture.

Cons:

1. Requires a stable internet connection for GPS tracking, which might not work well in remote areas.
2. Some of the coolest features are behind a paywall, nudging you toward a subscription.
3. The app can drain your phone’s battery faster because it uses GPS.
4. Beginners might find the interface a bit overwhelming with all its features and data points.
5. Ads pop up in the free version, which can be annoying during a peaceful walk.

Each point shines a light on how MapMyWalk serves as both a motivator and a tracker for walking enthusiasts and newcomers alike, aiming to blend technology with fitness in every step taken forward.

Best Walking App for a Cause: CharityMiles

Walk your way to making a difference with CharityMiles. Every step you take turns into cash for charity, letting you support great causes just by moving your feet!

Features & Benefits (CharityMiles)

CharityMiles changes the game by linking fitness goals with charitable giving. Every step you take turns into a donation to a cause you care about. Imagine hitting your health improvement targets while feeding a hungry child or saving endangered animals.

This app lets you choose which charity benefits from your walking, running, or biking. It’s motivation and accountability rolled into one—knowing each mile supports something bigger makes every step count even more.

Beyond making an impact, CharityMiles keeps track of steps, distance, and calories burnt. So whether you’re on a weight loss journey or just keeping active for your wellness, it’s all recorded in the palm of your hand.

You don’t need any fancy equipment; just carry your phone and start moving. Plus, sharing your achievements through social media can inspire friends to join in too! So lace up those sneakers—every mile matters when it’s for a good cause.

Pros & Cons (CharityMiles)

Now that we’ve walked you through the unique features that CharityMiles brings to the table, let’s jog into the pros and cons. This approach gives you a clearer picture of what makes CharityMiles stand out but also where it might fall short for some users.

Pros:

1. Walk, run, or bike and earn money for charity with each mile covered. It’s motivation with a heart.
2. Offers a wide variety of charities to choose from, allowing users to support causes they truly care about.
3. Doesn’t require any subscription fees—totally free to use, making it accessible for everyone passionate about combining fitness with philanthropy.
4. Features an easy-to-use interface. Users find it simple to track their workouts and charitable contributions.
5. Boosts motivation by showing the impact your miles have on your chosen charity, providing a strong reason to lace up those sneakers even on lazy days.

Cons:

1. Earnings for charity depend on corporate sponsorship funds available, so how much you raise can vary.
2. Requires constant GPS tracking in the background which can drain your phone battery faster than usual.
3. May lack advanced features found in other fitness trackers like detailed calorie counting or in-depth workout analysis.
4. You don’t get personal earnings—the satisfaction comes from knowing you’re helping others.

Each step with CharityMiles connects you with your fitness goals while contributing positively to the world.

Best Walking App for Apple Watch Users: Apple Fitness+

Apple Fitness+ really shines for Apple Watch users, turning your watch into a powerhouse of tracking and motivation. With workouts syncing flawlessly, you’ll never miss a beat…or step!

Features & Benefits (Apple Fitness+)

Apple Fitness+ takes the cake for Apple Watch users looking to ramp up their walking game. It tracks all your steps and calories burned, making it a breeze to meet those fitness goals.

Not just that, but it also offers personalized recommendations. This means the more you walk, the better it gets at suggesting new challenges customized just for you.

What’s cooler? You gain access to an entire library of walking workouts led by inspiring trainers. They don’t just track progress; they make every step count for health improvement and weight loss.

And if motivation is what you need, Apple Fitness+ wraps it up in neat little packages called Time to Walk episodes — stories from influential people that turn your walks into adventures.

Pros & Cons (Apple Fitness+)

Apple Fitness+ keeps you moving with a variety of workouts and tracking features. It’s perfect for Apple Watch users looking to stay active.

Pros:

1. Syncs seamlessly with your Apple Watch, letting you see your stats in real time.
2. Offers a wide range of workout types, from HIIT to yoga, catering to all fitness levels.
3. Includes new workouts every week, keeping your routine fresh and exciting.
4. Features world-class trainers who motivate you to push harder and reach your goals.
5. Provides guided walking workouts that make every step count for your health improvement.
6. Allows access to the entire library on iPad, iPhone, and Apple TV – workout anywhere, anytime.
7. Tracks all your fitness activities in one place – steps tracker, calorie counting, and exercise tracking apps combined.

Cons:

1. Only available for Apple users, leaving out anyone without an iPhone or Apple Watch.
2. Requires an existing subscription to Apple Fitness+, which adds another expense to your budget.
3. Some workouts require additional equipment that may not be readily available at home.
4. Heavily integrated into the ecosystem – works best when fully invested in Apple products (Apple Watch, iPhone).
5. May not offer the same level of accountability as apps specifically for walking or running goals.

From breaking a sweat with dynamic exercises to enjoying peaceful mindfulness walks, Apple Fitness+ supports every step of your fitness journey while keeping you tied to the apple ecosystem – both a pro and con depending on how you look at it!

Conclusion

So, we’ve sprinted through the best of the best walking apps out there. Each offers its own flavor—whether you’re all about those metrics or just here for a good cause. Ever felt like having a fitness coach in your pocket? Well, now’s your chance! And hey, if motivation is what you’re after, these apps are like having a cheerleader with you every step of the way.

That feeling when you finally beat your personal record? With these apps, it’s not just possible—it’s probable. So lace up those sneakers and let’s hit the pavement—your journey to health and happiness is just an app away!

Discover how to complement your walking routine with strength training for weight loss and maximize your results.

FAQs

1. Do walking apps really help you keep track of your steps?

Yes, they’re like a trusty sidekick for your sneakers, counting every step you take.

2. Can I use these apps on any smartphone?

Absolutely, they’re as friendly with smartphones as peanut butter is with jelly.

3. Are there free walking apps that do a good job?

Sure thing! Many are free and still pack a punch like a mini superhero in your pocket.

4. Do these apps work if I’m just walking around my house or office?

You bet! They count steps everywhere, making circles around your coffee table count too.

5. Will these apps motivate me to walk more?

Definitely! They cheer you on like your own personal fan club right in your phone.