Even if running isn’t your favourite sport, these entertaining apps will have you lacing up and pounding the pavements in a minute.

Running is a therapeutic experience for some of us. It serves as a stress outlet and leaves you with that boost of feel-good endorphins at the end. But for others, it can be a boring affair, especially if you’ve been sticking to the treadmill or the same running route for years.

Switching your view by exploring other scenic outdoor running routes is an easy way to keep yourself motivated. But if you’re still struggling to overcome that mental barrier, download these running apps that come with missions, storylines and virtual trainers to inject some fun into your run. Who knows? You might end up surprising yourself and running farther than ever before!

(Also read: How to Modify Your Running Routine to Burn More Calories)

Zombies, Run!

Turn your outdoor runs into a game with this immersive running app, which will certainly kick boredom out of the way. As you listen to your own heart-pumping playlist, dramatic narration pours through the audio, prompting you to sprint when zombie mobs are near. With over 200 missions available and collected supplies to build your base, it’s bound to get addictive. Best part? It works anywhere – even treadmills. They’ve also got a 5k Training version with an eight-week running program designed for beginners.

Available on the App Store and Google Play

Story Running by Runtastic

This podcast series within the Runtastic app puts users in interactive 40-minute runs. With a wide range of chapters to choose from, you’ll be able to go on a different adventure every time. Plus, the engaging storyline and imaginary battles behind you will motivate you to run faster and farther.

Available on the App Store and Google Play

(Also read: Why Running Makes You Feel Happier)

Strava

Strava is one of the many community-based running apps out there that track your location and share your routes with your friends. This injects more social fun into boring runs so that it’s more than just a workout. You’ll be able to track your progress, try your friend’s running route, and dabble in some friendly competition.

Available on the App Store and Google Play

Nike Run Club

Between audio guided runs with Nike coaches and in-run cheers from friends, you’re never running alone with this app. Joining a weekly or monthly distance challenge earns you achievements after you’ve gone the distance. Plus, there are milestone badges to celebrate with along the way. We also love how you can create a Spotify Pace station that customises a running playlist according to your desired pace and music genre.

Available on the App Store and Google Play

(Also read: How to Enjoy Running Outdoors)

Pokemon Go

Yes, we had to include this fan favourite because of how popular it still is. Covering a distance of 2km, 5km or 10km is key to hatching various eggs collected. So what better way to do that than on a run? Head to popular spots and you might just catch a rare Pokemon along the way. The same developer recently released a similar game for Harry Potter fans, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, where you are tasked to run around, collect magical creatures and battle hostile beasts.

Available on the App Store and Google Play