A Fresh Perspective on Personalized Coaching

This Runna app review comes from someone deeply involved in the running world. I’m always testing new tools to stay motivated and hit my goals. Recently, I discovered the Runna app, which has quickly gained traction across the UK and even abroad. It’s not just another virtual coaching app—it actually creates personalized and automated running plans that match your current fitness level, available days to run, and running goals.

Whether you’re a casual jogger aiming for your first 5K or prepping for a 200 KM ultramarathon, Runna offers a personalized and affordable path forward. I signed up with a discount code and was able to purchase a plan that even included optional strength training, tailored to fit my schedule. The fact that it’s compatible with iPhone, Android, Garmin, and Apple Watch made it even easier to stay consistent.

Before Runna, I had relied on free online programs like Hal Higdon for my marathon prep, especially for my first Every Woman’s Marathon in Savannah. But after a running injury and slow recovery, I needed more structure, less guesswork, and fewer generic workouts. Runna truly stepped up—offering me a clear training journey with expert guidance for my next half marathon, and syncing seamlessly with my compatible devices. 

It even allowed me to adjust, update, and regenerate my plan based on new pace, time or progress. I followed my Runna plan for 13 weeks, targeting the 2024 London Marathon, and although overuse injuries and cervical myelopathy post-surgery (plus some opiates) cut my plan short by 3 weeks, this post-plan review remains valid: Runna offers some of the best support from a virtual running coach. From the Run Disney Princess races to Disneyland, this program has truly made an inspired impact on my training routine, even during the most painful mile 20 moments—turning painful expressions into powerful ones.

Runna App Review- The Answer

How Runna Customizes Your Journey

When I first downloaded the Runna app, I was surprised at how smoothly it worked. It didn’t throw a generic training program at me—instead, it asked detailed questions about my running experience, goals, and fitness level. What really stood out was how the app allowed me to choose how many weekly runs I could manage, and even let me choose which specific days to train or rest. Whether I felt the workouts were too easy or a bit difficult, the app would adjust the running plan in real time, making it feel genuinely tailored to me.

As someone who’s dealt with minor injuries in the past, the ability to add strength workouts for injury management and prevention was a major plus. I was also able to schedule my plan around a specific race week or marathon. This level of personalization isn’t something you often see—it truly moves away from cookie-cutter workouts and builds endurance with a thoughtful, tailored approach. I felt more in control and fully committed to my running journey than ever before.

Exploring Runna’s Flexible Training Plans

What impressed me most about the Runna App was how well it adapts to different abilities—whether you’re aiming to complete your first 5K or training for a marathon. That includes easy runs, intervals, a tempo run, and a long run each week. The adjustable options were super helpful, especially when I needed to shift sessions around to fit my lifestyle. 

From Couch to 5K to a detailed marathon training plan, each personalised plan feels structured yet flexible. I’ve had friends like Ailsa and Hasticat (who shared their thoughts via Instagram) talk about how intense some sessions were, especially the speed work, but still praise the app for giving them motivation and structure.

For those recovering from injury, the post-injury recovery plan and Run/Walk options are thoughtful additions. I tried the Runna Coach App Plan and compared it with a Coached Plan I followed earlier. Both had similar formats, but Runna’s plan featured a 0.75-mile warm-up, 800m intervals at an 8-minute pace with 90 seconds rest, and a 0.6-mile cool-down. 

Meanwhile, my previous plan had a 1 mile warm up, intervals at 7.50–8 min pace, 400m walk recovery, and a 1 mile cool down. While the paces weren’t drastically different, the recovery time really changed the feel of each session. Which helped during traveling or when I was just too tired to hit an exact pace.

Over time, I realized that structured training can quietly turn into pressure. During the final 3 weeks before my Chicago marathon, I felt the ticking off of workouts become a bit addictive, and the sense that the plan was ‘watching me’ was oddly real. I spoke to a friend who worked with Steph Davis, one of the Runna coaches, and she agreed—it’s important to allow some flexibility when you’re struggling. 

I appreciated that Runna let me adjust, move sessions, and focus more on effort than perfection. Whether you’re predicting a 4-hour marathon based on a recent 5K time, or just trying to keep your mental health and physical health in check, having that kind of support, from a coach like Ash or through a digital program like Runna, can make a real difference.

Custom Options with the Runna Coach App

The Runna App offers a wide range of coaching plans designed to suit nearly every ability—from Beginner to Elite. Whether you’re someone who can complete 5 KM under 45 minutes or a runner who regularly does 10KM or even half marathons, there’s a plan crafted for you.

When I first joined, I found it a bit challenging to choose the right criteria, but I appreciated the ability to select from Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced based on my weekly routine and experience with structured training. The app also lets you pick how many days a week you want to run—anywhere between 2 to 6—and shows total mileage based on your selected plan, whether you go for a high-volume marathon prep or a moderate schedule like four runs a week.

What really makes Runna stand out is how much you can personalize. You can choose between kilometres and miles, and even adjust treadmill settings to display KPH or MPH without doing the math yourself. I also found the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) option helpful—especially during recovery, in extreme temperatures, or on hilly terrain. The workouts sync automatically with Garmin, Apple Watch, or Coros, offering real-time tracking on your linked devices, including supported treadmills.

Considering the cost is just £15.99 a month (around $20 USD) or £100/year, the value is excellent—especially with access to a wide range of running plans plus optional strength training built in. For beginners, seasoned marathoners, or even those coming back from injury, Runna offers a smart, flexible coaching solution.

How Runna Delivers Real-Time, Personalized Training Sessions

The Runna app offers smart and well-structured workouts that keep things both effective and enjoyable. Each running session begins with a guided stretch and warm-up, often through an instructor-led video, followed by speed-focused drills with a slower start. The mix includes easy runs, tempo runs, long runs, interval runs, and even speed workouts.

For balance, there’s strength training, mobility work, and stretching to help you stay injury-free and consistently perform at your best. I really appreciate how the workout plans include rest days and easy run days, which helped me avoid my usual habit of skipping recovery.

Features like pacing guidance and weekly progress checks make it feel like having a personal coach in your pocket. You can also sync the sessions directly to your Garmin or Apple Watch, or follow along on your device mid-run. Personally, I use Shokz headphones and let the app speak through them, guiding me to speed up, slow down, or transition between sections—it’s incredibly helpful and, honestly, kind of awesome.

What Makes the Runna App So Effective

One of the biggest benefits I’ve experienced with the Runna app is how well the company and its expert team have built a training system that’s both effective and incredibly easy to use. The app integrates effortlessly with top fitness watches like Apple Watch, Garmin, Coros, Fitbit, and Suunto, making each session feel smooth and connected.

With a Premium membership, you can instantly add mobility, pilates, or strength training into your weekly routine—just a quick tap on the screen. Their team of professionals—including GB Olympians, physiotherapists, yoga, and pilates instructors—is highly accomplished and deeply knowledgeable. I had praised many of these features in my original review, and I’ve only seen them improve over time.

Personally, I love the exclusive discounts available to Premium users. With over 40 partner deals (including Shokz, Sweaty Betty, Pro:Direct, and Science in Sport), there’s genuine value added to the subscription. Runna also offers helpful articles and videos that dive into essential training topics like running form, nutrition, and fueling strategies—keeping me informed, focused, and confident throughout my journey.

Runna App Pricing: Is It Worth the Subscription?

Pricing-wise, Runna follows the usual subscription model you’d expect from premium fitness apps—but with a few key perks that justify the cost. You can subscribe monthly for $19.99 or go yearly for $119.99. There’s even a 2-week free trial available with the code CARLY20, which is great if you want to test things out first. 

What makes it worth it for me is the balance between expert-level coaching and tech convenience. It syncs with your devices, delivers a structured training plan, and feels like having a personal coach—without the steep price tag. Plus, there’s no long-term commitment. You can use it during a training block or marathon prep phase, then pause when you’re off-season. Simple and flexible.

What I Loved About Runna

• Built-in Strength Workouts: Runna includes optional strength training that blends seamlessly with your running plan—no need for a separate app.
• Super User-Friendly: The interface is clean, simple, and easy to navigate, making setup and plan adjustments effortless.
• Affordable for What You Get: With so many personalized features and expert input, the subscription feels like a bargain compared to hiring a personal coach.
• Plenty of Plan Variety: From Couch to 5K to marathon training, there’s something for every runner.
• Flexible Scheduling: You can customize how many days a week you want to train, so it fits around your lifestyle.
  

What Could Be Better

• Choosing the Right Level Is Tricky: The labels—Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Elite—sound helpful, but figuring out which one truly fits you can be confusing.
• Speed Sessions Can Feel Overwhelming: Especially in longer-distance plans like the marathon, some workouts felt a bit too intense.
• Kilometer-Centric Design: The app is clearly designed with KM in mind, which can feel awkward if you’re used to training in miles.
• Limited Training Styles: There’s currently no dedicated run/walk or heart rate-based training plan, which some runners might prefer.

Would I Recommend the Runna App? Here’s My Honest Verdict

If you’re asking whether I’d recommend the Runna app, the answer is a strong yes—with some important context. It’s a fantastic training companion, especially for those committed to a structured running journey. Whether you’re a beginner starting with the First 5K or targeting a 16-week marathon plan, Runna offers personalized guidance and motivation that many runners—and even non-runners—find incredibly valuable. New users can enter the code GRITTY in the referral section for two weeks of free access. I’ve used their referral link myself, and honestly, the experience felt smoother and more supportive than any similar app I’ve tried.

That said, a few caveats are worth mentioning. On social media, it’s common to see influencers completing intense marathon plans in a short time. Naturally, some people try to replicate that journey—but without fully grasping the training load involved. In my own case, I pushed too hard, too soon—just three weeks post-op—and ended up dealing with an overuse injury. That’s not a flaw in the app; the responsibility was mine.

Running a marathon is no small feat. Many PTs I’ve spoken with recommend at least six months of structured training, especially if you’ve only run up to 10KM before. So here’s my honest advice: listen to your body. Just because someone else can complete a plan quickly doesn’t mean it’s right—or safe—for you. Start with what suits your level. As the old saying goes, don’t try to run before you can walk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Runna app any good?

Yes, the Runna app is very good—especially for runners who want a personalized, structured training plan. It’s incredibly user-friendly, and the support team is quick to help if you need to adjust your pace or training. Based on my experience, I’d definitely recommend it to both beginners and experienced runners looking for guidance, flexibility, and expert-designed coaching.

Does Runna make you pay?

The Runna and Strava joint subscription gives you access to both with one annual plan at $149.99/year (US pricing), offering up to 60% off vs buying separately. There’s no monthly plan, so it’s ideal for those ready to commit long-term with Runna Premium.

Which is better, Runna or Coopah?

Runna generally offers more customization, strength integration, and deeper coaching options compared to Coopah. While Coopah is simple and flexible, Runna tends to deliver a more structured and performance-focused training experience.

How many miles is 5K?

5 kilometers is equal to approximately 3.1 miles. It’s one of the most common and beginner-friendly race distances.

How much is Runna worth?

While Runna’s exact financial value hasn’t been officially disclosed, its acquisition by Strava in 2025 reflects its strong position and growth in the fitness tech space.

Is Runna for beginners?

Yes, Runna is beginner-friendly. It includes plans like Couch to 5K and First 5K that are designed for those new to running, offering gradual progress with expert guidance.

Who owns the Runna app?

As of April 2025, Runna is owned by Strava, which acquired the app to enhance its offerings for runners worldwide. It was originally created by Ben Parker and Dom Raby.