Do Fitness Apps Really Work?

Are apps an easy win for data-driven runners, or just more clutter in an unnecessarily digitalised world?

- Jack Hart

Dealing in hypotheticals is usually reserved for dinner-party debates on philosophy or politics, not base pursuits like trail running – but bear with us here, because when it comes to fitness apps, a debate is what you’ll find. Suppose Runner A and Runner B both set out down a trail in the Lake District. Runner A attacks the trail at a quick pace, referring back to their phone or smart watch every minute to check their heart rate and cadence, and keeping within set parameters to optimise their physical benefits. Runner B, meanwhile, takes things at a more leisurely pace, still enjoying the thrill of the trail but markedly more interested in appreciating the scenery laid out before them, the feel and smell of the earth beneath their feet. Now, Runner A and Runner B are largely in the same situation here, both getting fitter by running off-road – but it’s their approach that separates them. And although most everyone will share Runner B’s appreciation of the trail, it will be Runner A’s commit to fitness apps and tracking that divides opinion. So, the big question: who’s really getting the most out of their run?

Apps – friend or foe?