It keeps track of walks and periodically tells me my speed, distance and time as I go.
At journey's end it creates a map and overall exercise statistics.
I use it for walks, but you can track bike trips, runs and hikes as well.
RunKeeper tracks using GPS. It's one of a class of fitness apps that doesn't require sensors in your shoes or other wearable devices -- only the app running on a phone with GPS enabled. That's why it's one of the most successful fitness apps with 17 million users. Endomondo with 13 million users is another great GPS-based fitness tracking app.
You turn on your music, fire up RunKeeper and go. When you're finished you can thumb through maps and stats on the phone or on the web. There's also a set routes feature. RunKeeper will map progress on that route over time.
You can exercise alone or share your activities and fitness feed with friends and family, and view fitness reports. Most activities are free, but advanced functions require an "elite" subscription of $5.49 a month.
Nike Training Club App -- free
LOTS of health apps focus on exercise routines and Nike Training Club App is one of the most visually appealing of them. Its videos and images clearly demonstrate the exercises. So if you want to get fit, but aren't clear about routines to follow, it's very helpful.
You start by choosing a goal -- weight loss, toning, building strength or focusing on 15-minute workouts. And you select from a range of relevant fully illustrated programs. For toning you can choose from cardio killer, better butt, sculptured arms, leaner legs, shaped back, ab burner -- 14 workouts in all.
The app's points system adds a nice touch. You get points for the time you work out and eventually qualify for a reward which include workouts hosted by celebrities and well-known trainers. Serena Williams and singer Rihanna's personal trainer are among this content.
Zombies, Run! -- $4.49
THIS app offers you 33 virtual missions you complete, in your head, as you walk, jog or run.
Physically you may be strolling around a local park. But with your headphones on, you are "runner 5" in an immersive adventure collecting critical supplies for survival while avoiding zombie hordes on your trail.
The gaming narratives are nicely compiled and each segment of a game is interspersed with songs from your music library. Every now and then you are told to "run" to save your life as the zombies close in.
You can customise the game playlists and there's an optional "zombie chase" mode for working up a sweat.
So if you see paranoid joggers in the neighbourhood, they're probably using this app.
We love the idea of a make-believe audio story line or narrative for walking and jogging, although we're not wedded to them being all about zombies.
There's potential here for more apps that add story lines to your music and get the adrenalin pumping each time you leave home for a walk -- on themes other than zombies.
