# 5K Run vs Running Coach

The clearest difference is rating: 5K Run at 4.6 against Running Coach's 3.5. 5K Run also leads on update cadence (every 10 days vs every 2 months) and ratings volume (2.2K vs 4). On price, ads, in-app purchases and monetization model there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. 5K Run sells 1 one-off in-app purchase and Running Coach sells 4 in-app purchases, starting at $11.49 per month. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

5K Run holds the better App Store score, 4.6 against 3.5. That said, the two scores are not equally well evidenced: 5K Run has 2.2K ratings behind it against 4, so its average is the more settled of the two. Written reviews point the same way: 24% of 5K Run's written reviews are positive against 0% of Running Coach's.

5K Run ships an update every 10 days, Running Coach every 2 months. The most recent releases landed on August 23, 2026 and September 9, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | 5K Run | Running Coach |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | **[4.6 (2.2K ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/5k-run-beginner-training-plan/id1271409505/reviews)** | [3.5 (4 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/running-coach-beginner-guide/id1493491341/reviews) |
| Number of ratings | **2.2K** | 4 |
| Positive reviews | **24.3% of reviews** | 0.0% of reviews |
| In-app purchases | Yes | Yes |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | **Every 10 days** | Every 2 months |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | Free with in-app purchases |
| Size | 25 MB | 99 MB |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 | **16.6** |
| Devices | iPhone, Apple Watch | **iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch** |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Carlos Fernandez Mayor](https://appshunter.io/developer/1544231737) | [Riafy Technologies Pvt. Ltd.](https://appshunter.io/developer/918478397) |

## What reviewers say

### 5K Run

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/5k-run-beginner-training-plan/id1271409505)

This app guides beginners from inactivity to running a 5K with a flexible, adaptive training plan. It offers audio cues during runs and integrates with HealthKit to track progress and Apple Watch activity.

**Highlights:** Adaptive 5K training plan, Voice trainer for run/walk intervals, Flexible workout scheduling, HealthKit integration, Motivation and progress tracking

**Features:** Family Sharing, Apple Watch app

**In-app purchases (1)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Plan de entrenamiento 5K | $4.99 | one-time |

**What reviewers like**

- 🚀 Simple and easy to use
- 👍 Motivating for beginners
- 💡 Gradual training program

**What reviewers complain about**

- 🐛 Unreliable sync with Apple Watch
- 🔒 Lack of customer support
- 💰 Hidden in-app purchases
- 🔄 Inability to repeat or restart stages

**Reported bugs**

- App crashes and loses user progress
- Inconsistent tracking of distance and pace
- Issues with treadmill workouts

**Requested features**

- Ability to manually adjust training program
- More detailed workout information
- Integration with other fitness apps
- Audio cues for run/walk transitions


### Running Coach

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/running-coach-beginner-guide/id1493491341)

Personalized running plans for beginners to build endurance safely and achieve weight loss goals. Offers indoor/outdoor workouts, audio coaching, and progress tracking. Includes strength training and nutrition tips.

**Highlights:** Beginner-friendly workout plans, Progressive training system, Weight loss focused routines, Indoor and outdoor workout options, Audio coaching guidance, Progress tracking with analytics, Nutrition tips for runners

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Apple Watch app, iMessage stickers, Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases (4)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Running Tracker Monthly | $11.49 | per month |
| Running Tracker Half Yearly | $39.99 | per 6 months |
| Running Tracker Discounted | $39.99 | per 6 months |
| 7 days premium | $2.99 | one-time |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is 5K Run free?

5K Run is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Is Running Coach free?

Running Coach is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Which has better reviews, 5K Run or Running Coach?

5K Run is rated higher. 5K Run averages 4.6 out of 5 from 2.2K ratings, while Running Coach averages 3.5 from 4 ratings.

### Do 5K Run or Running Coach have ads?

Neither 5K Run nor Running Coach shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, 5K Run or Running Coach?

5K Run ships an update every 10 days, and Running Coach every 2 months. Most recently, 5K Run was updated on August 23, 2026 and Running Coach on September 9, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*