13 Best Free Virtual Walking Apps to Explore in [2024]

Video: Map My Walk Tutorial. [GET FIT WITH WALKING NOW].

In an era where our smartphones are almost as essential as our shoes for a walk, finding the best free virtual walking app can be as crucial as choosing the right footwear. With a plethora of options available, how do you sift through the digital clutter to find your perfect walking companion? Fear not, dear reader, for we’ve laced up our digital sneakers and embarked on a journey to bring you the top 13 free virtual walking apps of 2024. Prepare to be intrigued, entertained, and possibly a bit healthier by the end of this read.

Table of Contents

  1. Quick Answer
  2. Quick Tips and Facts
  3. The Journey Begins: A Brief History of Virtual Walking Apps
  4. 1. MapMyWalk: Your Digital Walking Buddy
  5. 2. Fitbit App Mobile Tracker: More Than Just Steps
  6. 3. Walkmeter GPS: The Data-Driven Walker’s Dream
  7. 4. Footpath Route Planner: Craft Your Path
  8. 5. Go Jauntly: Discover the Joy of Walking
  9. 6. AlpineQuest Off-Road Explorer: For the Adventurous Soul
  10. 7. Nike Run Club: Not Just for Runners
  11. 8. OutDoors GPS: Your Outdoor Companion
  12. 9. ViewRanger: The Explorer’s Choice
  13. 10. World Walking: Walk the World Virtually
  14. 11. Strava: The Social Network for Walkers
  15. 12. Google Fit: Google’s Take on Walking Apps
  16. 13. Charity Miles: Walk for a Cause
  17. FAQ
  18. Conclusion
  19. Recommended Links
  20. Reference Links

Quick Answer

Looking for the best free virtual walking app in 2024? We’ve got you covered with our top picks, including MapMyWalk for its comprehensive tracking features, Fitbit App Mobile Tracker for those without a Fitbit device, and Charity Miles for those who want to walk for a cause. Whether you’re a casual stroller or a serious trekker, there’s an app on this list for you.

Quick Tips and Facts

  • Walking is one of the simplest ways to improve your health, requiring no equipment other than a good pair of shoes.
  • Virtual walking apps can enhance your walking experience by tracking your progress, providing motivation, and even allowing you to explore virtual landscapes.
  • Most apps are compatible with both iOS and Android devices, ensuring accessibility for all users.

The Journey Begins: A Brief History of Virtual Walking Apps

Virtual walking apps have revolutionized the way we view walking, transforming it from a mundane task into an engaging, data-driven activity. The first walking apps focused primarily on step counting, but as technology advanced, so did the features. Today’s apps offer route planning, social sharing, and even virtual challenges, making every walk an adventure.

1. MapMyWalk: Your Digital Walking Buddy

  • Features: Tracks time, distance, pace, elevation, and calories burned. Connects with wearables and offers social sharing.
  • Pros: Comprehensive tracking; wide compatibility with other apps and devices.
  • Cons: Some advanced features require a subscription.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

2. Fitbit App Mobile Tracker: More Than Just Steps

  • Features: GPS tracking, daily steps using the phone’s motion sensor, virtual challenges.
  • Pros: No Fitbit required; detailed activity tracking.
  • Cons: Limited social features compared to other apps.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

3. Walkmeter GPS: The Data-Driven Walker’s Dream

  • Features: Calendar view, Google Maps integration, weather recording, Apple Watch pairing.
  • Pros: Extensive data analysis; customizable.
  • Cons: Interface can be overwhelming for beginners.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

4. Footpath Route Planner: Craft Your Path

  • Features: Easy route mapping, offline functionality, distance and elevation measurement.
  • Pros: Intuitive design; great for planning walks in advance.
  • Cons: Limited social sharing options.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

5. Go Jauntly: Discover the Joy of Walking

  • Features: Over 700 walking routes in the UK, walking times to public transport.
  • Pros: Encourages exploration; community-driven.
  • Cons: Primarily UK-focused.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

6. AlpineQuest Off-Road Explorer: For the Adventurous Soul

  • Features: Online and offline maps, multi-layered maps, compass and orientation functions.
  • Pros: Ideal for off-road exploration; comprehensive mapping tools.
  • Cons: Can be complex for casual users.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

7. Nike Run Club: Not Just for Runners

  • Features: Route, time, and speed tracking, Auto-Pause, social sharing.
  • Pros: High-quality tracking; motivational features.
  • Cons: Primarily designed for runners, but adaptable for walkers.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

8. OutDoors GPS: Your Outdoor Companion

  • Features: Access to various maps, offline functionality, comprehensive route planning.
  • Pros: Versatile mapping options; great for rural walks.
  • Cons: Some maps require purchase.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

9. ViewRanger: The Explorer’s Choice

  • Features: GPS unit functionality, free Open Street Maps, route recording.
  • Pros: Robust feature set; excellent for adventurers.
  • Cons: Premium maps at additional cost.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

10. World Walking: Walk the World Virtually

  • Features: Pedometer, virtual global routes, social clubs.
  • Pros: Motivational and social; encourages global exploration.
  • Cons: Requires consistent internet connection for full features.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

11. Strava: The Social Network for Walkers

  • Features: Activity tracking, heart rate monitoring, route sharing.
  • Pros: Strong community features; versatile tracking.
  • Cons: Best features behind a paywall.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

12. Google Fit: Google’s Take on Walking Apps

  • Features: Step counting, activity tracking, goal setting.
  • Pros: Simple and effective; integrates with other health apps.
  • Cons: Less feature-rich compared to dedicated walking apps.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

13. Charity Miles: Walk for a Cause

  • Features: Earn money for charity with every step, track walks, runs, and bike rides.
  • Pros: Supports a good cause; simple to use.
  • Cons: Earning potential is limited by the number of sponsors.
  • CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy

FAQ

Are there any free virtual walking apps?

Yes, all the apps listed in this article are free to download and use, with some offering premium features for a subscription fee.

Does Google have a free walking app?

Yes, Google Fit is Google’s free health-tracking platform that includes walking tracking capabilities.

Is there a free version of MapMyWalk?

MapMyWalk offers a free version with comprehensive tracking features, with an option to upgrade for advanced functionalities.

Is there a free app for group walking challenges?

Strava and World Walking offer social features that allow for group challenges and shared walking experiences.

Conclusion

In the vast landscape of free virtual walking apps, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re motivated by data, community, exploration, or charity, the perfect app is waiting to accompany you on your next walk. Our top pick? It’s hard to choose just one, but MapMyWalk offers a great balance of features for most walkers. Remember, the best app is the one that gets you moving and keeps you motivated. Lace up, choose your app, and start exploring the world one step at a time.

Jacob
Jacob
Articles: 183

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