If you’re anything like me, running is not just about logging km or chasing the next PB (although chasing the next PB does sound like a good idea), it is about making the most of your limited running time, your technology, and your legs. So when it comes to choosing a running app to guide your training, you want something smart, a tool that provides structure and that can give results without you going mad using it in the process.

Today I’m putting two heavyweights toe-to-toe: Runna (who was recently bought by Strava) and ASICS Runkeeper (a long time favourite of mine). Both promise smarter running, but only one might actually feel like it gets you.

The core difference

ASICS Runkeeper is your classic all-rounder: a solid, GPS-based app with tracking, voice cues, and some light coaching sprinkled in. It excels at the basics and will happily get you from couch potato to your first 5k and 10k. Longer distances become a bit more static, but it will still get you there.

Runna, on the other hand, is the structured coach in your pocket. It’s not just about counting runs, it’s about transforming them (and you in the process). Runna gives you tailored plans with purpose (coming back from injury, running a specific marathon, faster 5k, etc.) and adapts your plan by analysing each workout performance during speed sessions (intervals, tempo, and time trials) using their own AI tools to help.

Training plans: DIY vs pro guidance

ASICS Runkeeper offers basic plans with some flexibility, but they are fairly generic. You can tweak goals, but don’t expect a coach-level touch. Think of it like Spotify’s ‘Recommended for You’ list: decent, but sometimes way off.

Runna is where things start to feel personal. Weekly mileage? Adjusted. Rest days? You decide. Race coming up? It adapts. Built by real coaches and automated with modern AI, the plans feel like they actually read your Strava.

Motivation & feedback

ASICS Runkeeper’s charm lies in its simplicity. It shouts split times, tracks your pace, and pats you on the back with a virtual high-five. The motivation is is their guided workouts going up to a maximum of 10k’s in the ‘My First 10k’ plan. This motivation is lost on any longer distance plan. There is no feedback post run sessions.

Runna sends more regular reminders, adapts to missed workouts, and offers clear feedback in plain English. It nudges, it supports, and occasionally guilts you into lacing up and getting out on that run, but sometimes that is exactly what is needed.

Data & metrics

Both apps track the usual suspects; pace, distance, heart rate; but ASICS Runkeeper feels more like a tool for beginners or casual runners. If you’re deep into zone training, cadence tweaks, or structured intervals, you might outgrow it. Both apps also integrate with Garmin, Apple Watch, Suunto, COROS and Strava for seamless syncing; so your nerdy side is fully covered.

Additionally Runna offers deep insights week-by-week.

Cost factor

ASICS Runkeeper: Free version is fine for casuals and it doubles as a tracker if you do not yet have a smart watch. The paid tier (Runkeeper Go) unlocks plans and insights for around $9.99/month (~ZAR 120) or $39.99/year (~ZAR 779).

Runna: No free version. Starts at £15/month (~ZAR 399) or £100/year (~ZAR 2 249), but you can try it free for 2 weeks. I think this is a little steep, although it does offer a premium service.

There are now also combined Strava and Runna subscriptions available.

Final verdict: Who’s it for?

Choose ASICS Runkeeper if you’re just starting out and want a simple tracker. It will get you happily from to your first 5k and 10k with room to spare.

Choose Runna if you’ve got big a race goal, want structure without overthinking it, and need a coach that fits in your phone. This particularly if you are already at half marathon or greater distances. Have a budget ready tho.

I am way beyond the beginner stages of running, but ASICS Runkeeper still has a special place in my heart and my training planning. I like an app that doesn’t overly judge me and I can also see the entire plan from day one – this is a small thing – but helps with long term general life planning.

But hey, your shoes, your rules. Just make sure whatever app you choose helps you get out the door. The road doesn’t care which one you used.

Got any questions or need a local guide to help with a Garmin sync or to choose the right plan? Drop me a message. I’m always up for a run chat (easy pace), especially if it ends in coffee.