1. Safety First
1 of 11
If you get lost, hurt yourself, or feel unsafe, help is just a phone call away. If you're running late (no pun intended) then you can text your friends or family that you decided to run a few extra miles and that they don't need to worry. It's easy to let friends and family know you're OK when running outside.
2. Listening to Music
2 of 11
No need for iPods or mp3 players, most smartphones house your own music library. Create your own playlist, plug in your headphones, and log some miles. If you need some motivating music, RockMyRun has hundreds of music mixes you can download.
3. Light Your Run Route
3 of 11
If you head out for an evening run, chances are you'll be running from dusk to dark. If you happen to get stuck in night-running mode, download a flashlight app so you can light your way home. It also is a source of light to keep you lit so other runners and drivers will see you. Warning: Most flashlight apps suck your phone's battery dry.
4. Track Miles
4 of 11
5. Snap a Selfie
5 of 11
OK, maybe you're not into taking pictures of yourself when running, but there are moments that you might want to remember during your run. Sunrises, sunsets, epic trail views, scenic water shots, running in a new city, these are images that you might want to remember. Go ahead and enjoy your running scenery‐and take a picture.
6. Virtual Running Buddies
6 of 11
Run with friends near and far with Skype or FaceTime. You can keep each other motivated and see where you're all running.
7. Never Miss Your Favorite Sporting Event
7 of 11
It's Thursday night and you have to log the last few miles before taper week, but your favorite football team is on Thursday Night Football. What do you do? Stay home or head out for your run? It's a tough decision for the football lover, but with sporting apps you can listen to your favorite game, or even watch it, while you build your miles.
8. Use GPS
8 of 11
Running in a new neighborhood or trying to map out 10 miles can be a challenge. Running with your phone allows you to use GPS apps or maps to help you navigate a new route or area of town you're unfamiliar with.
9. In Case of an Emergency
9 of 11
What if a friend or family member needs to get in touch with you? If you head out for a long run, that might take a couple of hours. Running with your phone allows you to take calls or read texts that might be of importance.
10. Listen to a Book
10 of 11
Sometimes it's hard for busy athletes to sit down and read a book. Download an audiobook so you can listen to a book you've been meaning to read while getting your workout done.
11 of 11
Next Gallery
The Newbie Runner Diaries: 7 Things That Helped Me Train for My Half Marathon
Get ACTIVE on the Go
Couch to 5K®
The best way to get new runners off the couch and across the finish line of their first 5K.
Available for iOS | Android
Discuss This Article