Global Running Day is set to hand Apple Watch users an unusually efficient reward setup. A single 5K run on 3 June 2026 can count toward two different challenges at once, provided the required apps and accounts are connected correctly.
The appeal is simple: one workout, two digital prizes. Apple is running its own Fitness challenge, while Strava is offering a separate Global Running Day 5K with Runna challenge, and both can be completed with the same run.
How the two challenges work
Apple’s challenge lives in the Fitness app on Apple Watch. To complete it, users need to finish at least 3.1 miles, or 5 kilometers, before the day ends while wearing the watch during the run.
Strava’s version is tied to its Global Running Day 5K with Runna challenge. To qualify, users must link their Runna account to Strava and complete 3.1 miles, or 5 kilometers, within 24 hours with Apple Watch and the Strava app active.
The key is proper setup before the run starts. Both Fitness and Strava can record the same 5K session, but the account connections must already be in place for the activity to be recognized by both systems.
What needs to be connected first
Runna must be linked to Strava before the challenge is attempted. Runna also needs permission to read and write data in Apple Health on iPhone so activity syncing can work properly.
The order of app use also matters. Users are advised to open the Fitness app first, then switch to Strava before starting the run while Strava remains active on screen.
Once the distance reaches at least 5 kilometers, both apps can log the activity. After the data syncs through Apple Health on iPhone, the rewards from each challenge should appear.
Apple’s rewards for runners
Apple is offering a special Global Running Day digital award inside Fitness. Anyone who completes the challenge will also receive an animated iMessage sticker.
The company is also adding training content for runners who want to keep going after the event. Apple Fitness+ subscribers will unlock a treadmill workout featuring Danielle Burnett and coach Sherica Holman.
Apple is also offering a four-week program called “Strength for Runners.” The program is described as available to all users, not only Apple Fitness+ subscribers.
Strava and Runna’s bonus
Strava and Runna are taking a different approach, focusing on profile recognition and service access. Finishers will receive a limited-edition Strava x Runna digital trophy that appears on the Strava profile.
They will also get two weeks of free Runna premium subscription. For runners who want to test additional features from Runna, that bonus adds practical value beyond the digital badge.
The setup makes Global Running Day feel less like two separate tasks and more like one coordinated run. Apple emphasizes Fitness rewards and training content, while Strava and Runna combine community recognition with access to a training platform.
Still, the challenge depends on more than simply covering 5 kilometers. Apple Watch, Fitness, Strava, Runna, and Apple Health all need to work together so one run can be counted for both challenges without any missed sync.
Source: tech.sportskeeda.com
