Looking to take your training to the next level? Whether you’re a first time runner or a seasoned marathoner, there are a variety of options to assist you in prepping for race day.
Achieving Cures Together has hosted charity race teams at the Twin Cities Marathon and Denver, Colfax Marathon for ten years! We are grateful for the dedication that each runner has contributed to advancing microbiota therapy research. Each member of our race team has made a direct impact in advancing research and microbiota transplant therapy treatments. If you’re interested in joining one of our race teams, visit our All Events page to find the next race that fits your schedule.
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We’ve summarized a few great tools for runners to stay focused, personalize your training and track your progress. All of the following options are apps compatible with both iOS and Android used to help track, train, and encourage you throughout your runs.
Strava has built a massive global platform where runners log their activities, follow each other's progress, and compete on local route segments. Beyond tracking your pace and route, Strava includes social and competitive features. You can join clubs, participate in group challenges, and see how your performance compares to others on local stretches of road or trail through its leaderboard system.
Strava also integrates seamlessly with almost every GPS watch and device on the market (Garmin, Apple Watch, Coros, and more), and its mapping tools make it easy to discover new running routes in your area. There is a free tier, but many of the more advanced analytics and training features require a paid subscription.
If you're new to running or an experienced marathoner, Nike Run Club (NRC) is a great option. The app is completely free, and designed to get you out the door without a steep learning curve. NRC tracks the basics like pace, distance, heart rate, elevation, and mile splits. What sets it apart is its library of 300+ audio guided runs. Nike's coaches and athletes talk you through your runs in real time, offering encouragement, form tips, and a sense of company throughout your training. NRC also offers structured training plans covering everything from a 4-week beginner plan up to a full marathon prep program.
When you sign up, Runna asks detailed questions about your experience level, goals, available training days, and race date. From there, it builds a fully personalized plan, not a generic template, but a week-by-week schedule that adapts as you progress. Plans cover everything from a 5K to marathon prep, and the workouts include a mix of easy runs, tempo sessions, intervals, long runs, and recovery sessions. Strength, mobility, and cross-training are woven in too, so you're developing as a complete runner which is great for injury prevention.
The app syncs with Garmin, Apple Watch, Coros, and other devices, and it provides audio guidance during workouts so you always know what you're doing and why. Runna is a paid subscription service, but it includes a one week free trial to see if it’s the right fit for you.
The best training app is the one that works best for you! All three options listed above include free options or a free trial so there is no harm in trying something new. If you are interested in joining ACT’s 2026 Twin Cities Marathon team, please visit: https://www.achievingcures.com/2026tcmarathon.
Happy training!
