If there is an app for something then it is more than likely I will have it with exercise being no exception. Don't get me wrong, if the app doesn't make the cut then it goes straight into the bin but I am always interested to give things a go. I have tried Nike Running, Nike Training, Map My Run but none of them have given me long term motivation. However, I am pleased to say I have found a winner.
MY ASICS APP: I have downloaded the MY ASICS app which is a free app designed to help you hit your running goals. It promises the usual tracking function for route, paces and km splits. But what I think makes it special is after filling in a few simple goal related questions such as your target distance/time it then formulates a science based training plan for you to follow. I am motivated by stats so when I see that I have completed 3 runs/71, covered 11km/444 and have 24 weeks until my 10km race day I feel motivated to brave the cold and rack up the km's. You can also set it to email you reminders on your running days. There are lots of nifty features but I love the fact it crosses off your runs once you have completed them giving you a real sense of achievement. I run Spotify in the background so it does mean running more than one app at a time but just make sure you leave with enough charge. I say this from experience as I ran out of battery on my last run and ended up running aimlessly in the dark with no accurate recording of the distance/time. Luckily I did have a running partner that evening so I was able to guesstimate.
PS. You can also log in on a web browser and personalise your plan if you need to reschedule your runs so there is no danger of missing any.