Looking for a Runna alternative?
Runna nails guided running plans — if you only run, and don't mind the subscription. The Next Race is the free, multi-sport, fully-editable alternative.
Runna makes slick, algorithm-built running plans with guided audio, and for a pure runner who wants to be told what to do, it's a lovely app. The trade-offs: it's running-first, it's a monthly subscription, and the plan is generated for you rather than something you fully shape.
The Next Race takes the opposite line: free, multi-sport (run, bike, swim, triathlon), and every session editable on a fast drag-and-drop calendar. Add automatic multi-race planning, two-way Garmin sync, built-in smart-trainer control, and an AI assistant you can plan with — without a subscription.
The Next Race vs Runna
| Feature | The Next Race | Runna |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Paid subscription (~$18/mo) |
| Sports | Run, bike, swim, triathlon, multisport | Running-first |
| Plan control | Fully editable, you own it | Algorithm-generated |
| Multi-race planning | Blends overlapping race blocks automatically | One goal race at a time |
| Guided audio runs | No | Yes — audio coaching cues |
| Drag-and-drop calendar | Yes — built for fast edits | App-driven plan, limited manual editing |
| Sync (Strava, Garmin, Polar) | All three, two-way Garmin | Strava, Garmin, Apple Watch |
| Bike & smart-trainer support (ERG) | Built-in | Running-only |
| Best for | Multi-sport athletes who want control, free | Runners who want a done-for-you plan |
Runna is a subscription, commonly around $18/month or ~$120/year (varying by region and promotions). The Next Race is free.
Why athletes switch from Runna
One plan for every sport
Runna is built around running. The Next Race plans running, cycling, swimming and full triathlon in one calendar — and blends several races at once.
Free instead of a monthly bill
Runna's guided plans depend on an ongoing subscription. The Next Race delivers structured, multi-sport planning at no cost.
You shape the plan
See and edit every session rather than following an algorithm's output — drag tomorrow's run wherever it needs to go.
Built for triathletes too
Bike and swim sessions, two-way Garmin sync, and built-in smart-trainer (ERG) control that a running-only app doesn't try to cover.
When Runna is still the better pick
If you run and only run, love being handed a plan with guided audio in your ears, and don't mind paying for it, Runna is a genuinely polished experience built for exactly that. The Next Race is for multi-sport athletes — and anyone who'd rather shape their own plan for free.
Runna alternative — FAQ
Is The Next Race a free Runna alternative?
Yes. The Next Race offers structured, editable training plans across running, cycling, swimming and triathlon, with Strava/Garmin/Polar sync, for free — where Runna is a running-first paid subscription.
Does The Next Race work for runners?
Absolutely — structured running workouts, a drag-and-drop calendar, and threshold-pace zones. It just also covers cycling, swimming and triathlon if you need them.
What does Runna do that The Next Race doesn't?
Runna's guided audio runs and hands-off, algorithm-generated running plans are its strength. The Next Race gives you editable plans and an AI assistant instead, plus multi-sport and multi-race support.
Can I use The Next Race for triathlon, not just running?
Yes. It supports running, cycling, swimming and triathlon, blends multiple races, and includes two-way Garmin sync and smart-trainer control.
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Compare other alternatives
A better way to plan your training.
Free multi-race planning, a fast calendar, and an AI assistant. Make the switch today.