One of the most-downloaded health and fitness apps, Nike Run Club is a free app that runners of all levels can appreciate. It can log all your runs, provide real-time data during your workout, and even provide training plans.

With a wide selection of ways to socialize with other app users, as well as a library of virtual coaching narrations, it's one of the most robust running apps out now. Here's a rundown of the Nike Run Club app's many features, so you can make the most of this workout tool.

Using the NRC's Run Tracking and Logging Features

As a running app, Nike Run Club tracks almost every metric a runner could want, including pace, distance, elevation changes, and mile splits. A map displays your exact route afterward. If you connect a heart rate monitor with the app, then heart rate data is also tracked.

To access the run tracking screen, open the app and click on the little icon of a running person in the bottom center of the screen.

Select the Set A Goal button to set your desired distance, time, or speed for the run. This is optional, but starting a run with a particular goal in mind can be helpful for many athletes.

Click the green start button to get going immediately. A screen displaying your miles, average pace, and total time will show up. Calories, intervals, and heartbeats per minute (BPM) are also displayed, as well as a map of your running location.

To end a run, press and hold the stop button. Your completed run will be shown on the Activity screen with the mileage, average pace, and total time listed. Elevation gain and cadence are also included, as well as your average heart rate (if a monitor is synced). You can also check out data on mile splits to further break down your run.

Additional space at the bottom of the screen lets you make any notes and record info about your effort. It's everything you need to instantly start keeping a detailed run log.

Download: Nike Run Club for iOS | Android (Free)

Listen to NRC’s Guided Runs for a Positive Workout

Sometimes it's easy to let negative thoughts creep in during your run, and these feelings can even derail your whole workout. But the Nike Run Club's guided runs offer positive, insightful encouragement throughout the entire workout. Both your body and mind reap the benefits.

On the running home screen, select the Guided Runs tab near the top. Select the guided run you want, hit the Download button, and you're ready to go. Now you can run while listening to a coach or athlete who keeps you company for every step of the way.

Narrators like Coach Bennett and the rest of the team will soon feel like the cheering squad you didn't know you needed. When you're feeling fatigued and (possibly) ready to quit, the coach's encouragement to keep going can be tremendously motivating. Even better, helpful tips to improve your breathing, posture, and mental space throughout the run can truly turn things around.

The guided run selection is also impressive. You can listen to stories from accomplished athletes while you run to learn more about the sport and the people who love it. There's an entire Mindfulness Running Pack, many of which feature insight from Andy Puddicombe of the Headspace app, a popular meditation tool.

In addition, there are guided narrations for short runs, long runs, intervals, and even treadmill workouts. (Honestly, who doesn't need a little positive motivation to get through a treadmill session?) There's also a whole section of guided runs focused on beginners that will have you striding right in no time.

Sync NRC With Your Music

Pair the Nike Run Club app with your Spotify Premium or Apple Music account to add some tunes to the experience. You can listen to your own music or select one of the NRC's playlists on the services. Music can even play during the guided runs as well.

To sync your music, go to your run screen and select the Music note icon. Select your Apple Music or Spotify account, and enjoy your playlist of choice.

Socialize With the Nike Run Club App

Connect with friends through the app to strengthen your camaraderie (or kick off a friendly competition). Click the icon with two people at the bottom of the app, then navigate to the Leaderboard screen. From here, you can invite friends to link up on the app.

Under the Challenges screen, you can join an existing challenge or create your own. You can see how many other runners are attempting to complete the same challenge, whether you're attempting to run 9 miles in one week or cover 31 miles over the course of a month.

Lastly, the Events screen allows you to find a local running club in real life through the app.

Track Your Shoe Use

Because the app is run by Nike, it's no surprise some of its features are all about your running shoes. But no matter your brand, it is smart to keep track of your shoe usage, and this part of the app can do just that. Runners often replace shoes after 300 - 500 miles of usage, although the exact number will depend on the individual. (Ask the experts at your local running shoe shop, a physical therapist, or even a podiatrist for a more personalized recommendation.)

From the home screen, tap your initials in the upper left-hand corner. Click the My Shoes button. This brings you to the shoe locker portion of the app, which lets you tag any pair of running shoes you own, regardless of brand. (If they happen to be Nike, however, then you'll probably be able to find a photo of them on the app as well.)

Now it's easier than ever to keep track of the mileage on your shoes, whether you're wearing the latest pair of smart shoes for running or a more low-tech pair.

Along these lines, the Nike Run Club app does not overtly advertise the brand's products at every turn. You can definitely access the Member Shop on your profile screen for shopping, but don't worry about getting hounded to buy new shoes every time you open the app or anything.

Run On With the Nike Run Club App

Although there are plenty of awesome running apps available, the Nike Run Club app is definitely worth a download for most runners. Whatever your goals, the guided runs and detailed data logging features are great tools that can help improve your running positively.

Now that you've read this guide, all you need to do is grab your shoes and head outdoors!