Why running became so addictive to me is not only because of the endorphines, but also because of statistics. What Nokia made possible was tracking and logging every step you take with the internal GPS chip that was built-in my mobile phone. Without buying an additional device it was possible for me to measure every single workout I was doing back in 2006.  The software was able to even log the songs you were listening at every step you took. Sports-Tracker BETA is killed by Nokia now, too bad I forgot to import my old workouts. The import feature was killed 6 days ago. They sold off the company and Sports-Tracker.com is independent now.

After changing from a Nokia E61 to a E71, an Android Phone came along. The Android platform brought a richer experience in running software. Worksmart’s Cardiotrainer started to lure me in by offering voice-overs during your workout. Cardiotrainer tells you your speed, distance while running. The paid version (2.99$) offers the ‘run against yourself’ feature, which tells you’re better or behind your last accomplishment. At the time of writing Cardiotrainer lacks a user login, all tracks are uploaded to the Cardiotrainer website, but are linked to a single phone. As I changed phones from an HTC Hero to the HTC Legend I lost all my tracks.

That’s where I found RunKeeper, a small company called FitnessKeeper from Boston have one of the most dedicated communities that can be found online. The software distinguishes itself by being simple, clean and offers a fresh user interface. You can login the RunKeeper.com website and add routes to check your improvements, find routes from other users, calories burnt per day or even join a street team! You can unlock even more abilities by going Elite (19,99$). Elite users get more extended Fitness Reports, you can break down your calories, watch trends and personal records. RunKeeper offers a great eco-system, Withings even supports their weight scale data to be imported including body fat percentage!

After trying out the RunKeeper free version for a couple of months, I was delighted to enter the BETA programme. RunKeeper PRO has just been released a few days ago (9.99$) on the Android platform and now also offers audio-cues. Other features that are already available for iPhone users will soon be added to the Android version. I’ve automatically shared my running workouts on my Facebook, which inspired a lot of people to either hide my running activities or also start running!