FAQ

What is RunKeeper?

RunKeeper is an application built for the new 3G iPhone that uses the built-in GPS in the device to enable runners, cyclists, hikers, etc, to track their outdoor fitness activities including duration, distance, pace, speed, and path travelled on a map.

Will RunKeeper work with an original first generation iPhone?

While you could technically download it, we do not recommend it, as the application works best using the GPS built into the device, which was not included in the first generation device.

Can I see my route on a map?

Yes, you can see all of the routes for the activities you track using RunKeeper when you login to your personal web dashboard at www.runkeeper.com. While we do not currently offer a map on the device itself, this is a feature we will be adding soon.

What are the recommended operating procedures for best results?

• Whether held in your hand, in a sport armband, or mounted on your bicycle handlebars, the device should be in plain view. It will work if placed in your pocket or bag, but we do not recommend it if you can avoid it.
• The GPS is more accurate in areas with direct line of sight to the sky. If possible, avoid heavy tree coverage or tall buildings. The GPS will not be accurate at all inside buildings.
• The GPS is most accurate if you run relatively straight routes as opposed to zigging and zagging or making lots of sharp turns. The device will be less accurate, for example, doing laps around a small track than it will doing a long, relatively straight route or a longer loop.
• When you first start the application, it will say 'Determining location' at the bottom of the screen. It usually takes between 30 seconds and a minute to get a 'lock' on a satellite if you are in an area with a direct line to the sky (away from tall buildings and trees for best results). When the 'Determining location' indicator goes away it means you are ready to start tracking your run.
• For best results, turn wi-fi off before using RunKeeper. Otherwise, wi-fi sometimes tries to 'help out' and it is not always that helpful.

How badly does this application drain the iPhone battery?

Our tests have shown that you should get at least 3 hours of fitness tracking on a full battery.

Can I listen to my music while using RunKeeper?

Yes, you will be able to listen to the iPod in the background while you run, as well as change songs. You will not, however, be able to use any third party apps like AOL Radio, as Apple prevents you from running two third party applications at once. This is a current limitation of the iPhone platform and something we hope Apple will address in the future. We recommend you start the iPod application before RunKeeper so that the music plays in the background. You will be able to change tracks by either double clicking the headphone button or double tapping the home button on the iPhone.

What happens if I exit out of RunKeeper while tracking my route?

Your route will be automatically be paused the moment you exit RunKeeper, and when you return, you will have the option to resume where you left off. Any distance accumulated while the application is paused is not added to your total distance.

What happens if I receive a call while I am running?

If you ignore the call or dismiss it, RunKeeper continues tracking. If you answer it, RunKeeper automatically pauses your route and you have the option to resume it when your call is completed.

Do I need to turn off the iPhone auto-lock to use RunKeeper?

While auto-lock does need to be turned off for the GPS to track your activity uninterrupted, RunKeeper handles this automatically, including re-activating the auto-lock once you are done using RunKeeper. Make sure not to lock the phone via the top lock button on the device during your run, as this has the same effect as auto-lock.

What if my run does not send completely to my web dashboard?

It should resend automatically the next time you log into RunKeeper. You can also resend it manually by opening the run in your history, clicking 'Options' in the upper right and then 'Resend to RunKeeper.com'.

Is there a way to prevent hitting buttons accidentally during my run?

Yes, there is now a RunKeeper-specific lock that you can activate by touching the lock icon in the upper left of the screen once you have started tracking your run.

What can I do if I am having trouble finding a GPS signal?

In the RunKeeper settings, you can adjust the GPS filter to 'none', 'medium', or 'high'. 'High' is the default, which gives you the highest degree of precision, but makes it more difficult to find a signal. 'Medium' is a balance between the two, and 'none' gives you lower precision but easier ability to find a signal if you are in a weaker coverage area.

Can I categorize my activities on RunKeeper?

Yes, for those of you that do running, cycling, skiing, hiking, etc., you can now label each RunKeeper use by sport. To do so, go to the RunKeeper settings page, click 'Activity Type' and the select the desired activity by scrolling through the options. Activities will be labeled with that tag until you change it again in the settings, although you will also be able to edit these labels on your web dashboard as well.