Runtastic trains you in more than just running

LAS VEGAS--A finalist in the Mobile Apps Showdown here at CES, Runtastic offers a suite of training apps designed to improve your fitness in several different areas. The newest apps in the suite focus on running, push-ups, pull-ups, and squats -- arguably the most important full-body, calisthenic exercises in popular use. However, Runtastic does have other downloads available for activities like biking and hiking. To get started, you must create an account or sign in with Facebook.

The flagship Runtastic app is focused on running, and lets you plan routes, track times and calories, and do so much more. As for the other apps -- push-ups, pull-ups, and squats -- they help you follow your performance and set goals for the exercises. They also offer clearly defined programs for achieving your goals. One thing people love about the Runtastic suite is the social aspect it adds to your fitness regimen. If you like, the apps can share your goals and achievements with your friends on Runtastic.com or on Facebook, which, for some, can be a huge motivating factor.

My biggest issue with Runtastic is that it is divided up into so many different apps, which is obviously an inconvenience. It's a fair assumption that many who are interested in one of the Runtastic exercises will also want to try at least a few more. Plus, the user interfaces of the different apps appear to be very similar. So, why not combine the functionality of at least the four calisthenic exercises into a larger, paid version?

The Runtastic apps are available for free download now on Google Play. There are also paid Pro versions, which offer premium features such as voice feedback and more advanced training regimens. For iOS users, the apps are available in the App Store as well.