17 viral content marketing ideas made by running apps
These content marketing ideas for running apps are energizing, practical, and built for runners of all levels. No marathon required—just content that gets people moving.
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Napolify's Resources
- More than 500 viral content pieces analyzed
- Case Studies of viral accounts (Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook)
- Free Marketing Tools & Calculators
- Latest Tiktok Trends
More blog posts
- Viral marketing trends for running apps
- Viral social media strategies for running apps
- Viral short videos made by running apps
The Stepler Money-Making Reveal, 1.7M+ views
This TikTok from Stepler (a step-tracking rewards app) shows a woman freaking out about new "diamonds" in the app, then realizing she can exchange them for real money.
The hook works because money gets people's attention fast.
The transition from confusion to relief creates a mini story arc. People watch to see what made her stress out, then stick around for the payoff when she discovers the cash rewards.
The actual app interface showing £8, £20, £80 payouts makes it feel real instead of just talking about vague rewards.
The "POV" format lets viewers imagine themselves in her shoes. Most people can relate to being confused by app updates, so the opening emotion feels familiar. Then the dreamy music and sparkle effects when she realizes the money potential makes earning seem almost magical.
For running apps, you could show someone discovering they've earned rewards for their weekly runs, or realizing their steps converted to discounts on gear.
The key is starting with a relatable problem (not understanding a feature) then revealing a clear benefit.
@steplerapp Have you earned any diamonds yet? 💎💎 #getrewarded #rewards ♬ All American B Scream Ending Olivia Rodrigo - Khaleesi
The "Overlay Revelation" TikTok, 1.7M+ views
From Fitshot App, this video shows someone discovering they can add professional running data overlays to their photos.
The creator's surprised face combined with "Wdym I've been posting running pics without adding this overlay" immediately creates FOMO.
The quick demo of pasting text to generate a sleek pace chart and distance data offers instant utility. People see something they can actually use to make their posts look better.
The unexpected Chris Brown song during the tutorial adds humor and makes it more memorable than a straight how-to video.
Comments show people asking "how?" and expressing thanks, which means the tip hit the mark.
The 8-second length keeps retention high while delivering the hook, problem, solution, and a laugh.
For running apps, this works because it solves a real desire: making social posts look more professional. You could show overlays for route maps, elevation gains, or training streaks. It's one of the classic viral formats we have noticed.
@fitshotapp So quick an easy, would be rude not to!! #Running #distancerunning #fitness #fitshot #strava #runningcontent #intervaltraining #marathontraining #athlete #instagramstories @Inca ♬ original sound - Chanel😽
Keep Fighting Moment, 1.3M+ views
This TikTok from Trail Running APP captures elite runner Malen collapsing after pushing through harsh conditions.
The encouragement text "Keep fighting, Malen" builds emotional investment before the dramatic collapse.
The "WORLD ELITE" bib close-up adds context that this isn't just someone getting tired - it's peak-level effort.
The muddy conditions and ski lift background show she's battling tough terrain, making her struggle feel more intense.
The carefully chosen music amplifies the emotional impact. It transforms a sports moment into something cinematic that hits harder than just showing someone tired. People would share this because it captures what giving everything looks like.
Running apps could film users pushing through their own challenges - a first 5K, returning after injury, or completing a training program.
The key is showing real struggle with the right emotional soundtrack.
@welovetrail.app Cuando lo das todo en la montaña 🙌🔥 🎥 Goldentrailseries #trailrunning #trail #run #running #runners #fyp #viral #mountains ♬ som original - Football Moments
The Commuter's Companion, 1.5M+ views
This TikTok from Garmin (via NAVCO) demonstrates playing music directly from the Forerunner 965 watch.
The "FROM RUNS TO WORK TUNES" text immediately shows the benefit: seamless transition from workout to office.
Close-ups of the watch interface make the feature feel tangible. Viewers see exactly how to access music controls and volume, removing the mystery.
The bright yellow strap keeps the product visible even in wider office shots.
The scenario hits a common pain point: managing music across different activities. Instead of showing every watch feature, it focuses on one practical use case in a relatable setting.
The office environment makes it aspirational for active professionals.
For running apps, you could show how training data syncs across devices or how workout playlists adapt to pace. Focus on one clear benefit rather than overwhelming with features.
@garminbynavco Run to the rhythm of your own beat! The Garmin Forerunner 965 lets you store and play your favorite tunes on the go—no phone needed. Stay motivated, stay moving! #garmin #garminph #garminforerunner965 #music ♬ original sound - Garmin by NAVCO
The Digital Cable Revival, 2.6M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Name.com showcases ytch.xyz, a site that lets you "channel surf" through YouTube videos like old TV.
The nostalgia hook is immediate and powerful.
The remote control graphics and static between "channels" directly tap into memories of simpler times. For many viewers, random discovery beats algorithm-driven recommendations.
The "TV guide" categorizing channels adds familiar structure to the chaos of YouTube.
Comments show people missing "the randomness of tv" and wanting escape from algorithms.
The concept is instantly understandable and cleverly updates an old behavior for modern platforms.
Running apps could create similar nostalgia by bringing back elements people miss - like simple route discovery instead of complex training plans, or random running buddy matching instead of curated social feeds.
The Fast-R Nitro Elite 2, 51M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Running PEAK showcases the PUMA shoe's unusual design through close-ups and movement.
The segmented sole and floating heel piece immediately stop the scroll because it looks so different.
The crisp "thud" sound when the shoe hits wood creates an ASMR-like effect. Combined with shots of someone flexing the material and tracing the heel, it builds a sensory experience that keeps people watching.
The "Elite" name hints at performance without explaining it, creating anticipation. Comments asking about price and expressing desire show the video successfully built intrigue around the product.
This pattern keeps popping up in our breakdowns of viral content. Running apps could apply this by showing unique features through close-ups and sound - like the satisfying "ping" of completing a workout or the visual of progress bars filling up.
The Rise and Fall of a Sprinter, 51M+ views
From Running PEAK, this Instagram Reel shows a marathoner starting way too fast, then completely burning out after 400 meters.
The contrast between his confident start and immediate exhaustion creates perfect comedy timing.
The "After 400 meters" title card works like a mini cliffhanger, making people want to see what happens next.
The confetti and cheering at the start build up expectations that make the collapse funnier.
Comments like "I would definitely do this too" show the high relatability. Most people have started something with too much enthusiasm and crashed quickly.
The runner's initial showmanship makes his downfall more entertaining than if he'd just quietly tired out.
Running apps could create similar expectation-versus-reality content showing common training mistakes or overambitious goal setting.
The key is building up the "hero moment" before revealing the humorous reality.
The Adventures of a Mini Shopping Cart, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Meta for Business shows a tiny camera traveling in a miniature shopping cart through an event.
The unusual POV immediately creates curiosity about what will happen next.
Each "collection" - coffee sleeve, puppy, fries - acts like a mini reward keeping viewers engaged.
The puppy scene especially triggers strong positive emotions that people want to share.
The claw machine attempt adds relatable humor since most people have experienced that frustration.
The cart's "journey" through different event areas creates a sense of adventure. People gave it a name ("Dolly") showing how the anthropomorphism worked to create emotional connection.
For us, it looks very familiar, because it's a proven format we've documented many times. Running apps could use similar unique perspectives - maybe following a GPS dot through a route or showing a runner's journey from the perspective of their shoes.
The Tapestry of Human Motivation, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Runna captures marathon runners sharing why they ran.
The variety of stories - from personal loss to overcoming illness - creates emotional peaks that keep people watching.
The woman who "wouldn't live to see my next birthday" and broke 26 bones provides the most powerful climax. Her "nothing is impossible" message leaves viewers feeling inspired and likely to share positive feelings.
The simple setup with a microphone and sign feels authentic rather than produced.
The rapid succession of different motivations means viewers connect with at least one story, even if others don't resonate.
Running apps could collect similar user stories about transformation, motivation, or overcoming challenges.
The key is gathering diverse experiences that speak to different audiences while building to the most powerful testimonies.
The Marathon Fueling Formula, 0.8M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Runna shows a "2:34 marathon runner boss" explaining gel strategy.
The authority signal immediately makes people pay attention since this advice comes from proven performance.
The "January sales" graph in the background becomes a running joke in comments, adding unexpected humor to an educational video.
The structured explanation (60g carbs per hour, gel math) satisfies people who want to understand the reasoning, not just get a number.
Comments show debate about the 60g recommendation, with some pushing for higher intake. This controversy actually boosts engagement as people share their own strategies and experiences.
Running apps could feature their fastest users or coaches explaining training concepts.
The credibility of the source matters more than production value, and subtle humor helps make educational content more memorable.
Keep Running, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from KIPRUN opens with kids running joyfully, then asks "Why did we ever stop?" The nostalgia hook immediately creates emotional connection and a sense of lost innocence.
The rapid montage with "KEEP..." variations maintains energy while showing different aspects of running - discovery, friendship, resilience, progress.
The quick cuts and driving music create momentum that mirrors running itself.
The diverse representation lets different viewers see themselves in the narrative.
The mix of struggle ("KEEP FALLING") and triumph ("KEEP GETTING UP") reflects life's broader challenges, making it more than just exercise content.
Running apps could use similar emotional storytelling that connects running to life values rather than just fitness metrics.
The key is tapping into deeper motivations beyond performance.
The Marathon Taper, 1.2M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Strava features Joe Sugg preparing for London Marathon with partner Dianne Buswell.
The "final episode" framing creates anticipation for viewers following the journey.
Joe's self-deprecating humor about nearly hitting a tree branch makes him relatable despite his celebrity status.
The charity element (Age UK) adds meaning beyond personal achievement, encouraging shares to support a good cause.
The integration of Strava feels organic since it serves his actual training needs - route planning, progress tracking, community connection.
The "Mario Kart mushroom" analogy for kudos makes the app request feel playful rather than promotional.
It's a recurring element we've seen in multiple viral case studies. Running apps could partner with users who have existing audiences, letting them document real training journeys while naturally showcasing app features.
The Roadside Hustle, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel from INFLUISH shows a man in an office chair on a road with blue smoke, advertising paid collaborations for 4K+ followers.
The absurd visual immediately stops the scroll.
The clear value proposition - ₹1000 for one reel and story - appeals to micro-influencers who struggle with monetization.
The low follower requirement makes the opportunity feel accessible to a large audience.
Comments show genuine interest mixed with skepticism and technical questions. Even critical comments boost engagement metrics, while the unusual setup gets shared as an example of creative marketing.
Running apps could use similarly unexpected visuals to announce features or partnerships.
The key is pairing the attention-grabbing hook with clear, actionable information that serves the audience's interests.
Marathon Milestones, 1.5M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Strava follows Joe Sugg and pacer Savannah through London Marathon.
The kiss from girlfriend Dianne establishes emotional stakes, then shows the complete race journey from start to medal ceremony.
The iconic London landmarks provide visual interest and progress markers. Joe's selfie-style filming during the race creates an immersive first-person experience that lets viewers feel part of the event.
His vulnerability about struggling at 30km followed by triumph at the finish creates a classic underdog arc.
The inclusion of Strava data and 3D route visualization provides satisfying closure and quantifies the achievement.
Running apps could document user journeys through major challenges, showing both the preparation and payoff.
The key is capturing authentic emotions and providing clear milestones that make progress tangible.
A Viral Marathon Moment, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Strava showcases four elite marathon runners with their paces and achievements.
The opening "They really ran that pace for a whole marathon" captures viewer disbelief and sets up the showcase.
Each runner gets distinct personality touches - Alex Yee as "just a chill guy," Phily Bowden "stirring up the crowd." These details make them individuals rather than just fast runners, creating multiple connection points for different viewers.
The rapid-fire format prevents boredom while the crowd energy provides infectious enthusiasm. Comments expressing awe ("superhuman") show the content successfully triggered feelings of wonder that people want to share.
Running apps could highlight user achievements with similar rapid showcases, adding personality details that make faster runners relatable rather than intimidating.
The key is balancing impressive performance with human elements.
London Marathon Triumph, 0.6M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Strava documents a runner's London Marathon journey from training doubts to finishing with a 13-minute PR.
The "something I never thought I'd be able to do" opening creates immediate relatability.
The montage balances struggle ("dreadful runs") with joy, making the journey feel authentic. Showing the race kit layout and nervous goodbyes captures familiar pre-race rituals that other runners recognize.
The emotional peak of seeing supporters at mile 20 demonstrates the power of community support.
The Boston qualifying time and "cheeky pints" celebration provide both aspiration and down-to-earth relatability.
Running apps could document similar transformation stories, focusing on the emotional journey rather than just performance metrics.
The key is showing real struggle overcome through persistence and support.
The "Pregnant Pause" Payout, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel from INFLUISH features a man with a stuffed shirt explaining influencer pricing while promoting their app.
The fake pregnancy belly creates immediate curiosity and comment bait.
The pricing formula (1/3 of follower count for payment) addresses a real pain point for aspiring influencers. Even though some commenters dispute the numbers, the specific advice feels actionable and valuable.
The visual gag generates discussion while the practical information provides substance. People probably comment about both the absurd appearance and the financial advice, driving engagement from multiple angles.
Running apps could use similarly unexpected visuals to announce monetization features or partnerships.
The key is pairing attention-grabbing hooks with genuinely useful information that serves user needs.
Napolify's Resources
- More than 500 viral content pieces analyzed
- Case Studies of viral accounts (Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook)
- Free Marketing Tools & Calculators
- Latest Tiktok Trends
More blog posts
- Viral marketing trends for running apps
- Viral social media strategies for running apps
- Viral short videos made by running apps