Spotify launched a new Running Mode on July 30 for Premium users on its iOS app in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Sweden [1, 2, 3]. The feature creates personalized running playlists based on workout type, music preferences, duration, and beats per minute (BPM) [1, 2, 3].
Running Mode offers 25 preset playlist options including interval, steady, and pyramid workout types. Each preset can be customized by duration, BPM, and music genre to fit a runner’s needs [1, 2, 3]. Spotify said the playlists feature "seamless transitions between tracks to match your tempo" to enhance the running experience [3].
The mode also includes motivational audio coaching cues currently available only in English. Spotify described these as "motivational audio cues that act as a ‘supportive friend’" to encourage users during workouts [1, 2, 3].
Users can access Running Mode through the Fitness hub on Spotify’s iOS app [1, 2, 3]. The new feature builds on Spotify’s AI-powered Prompted Playlists introduced last year but focuses explicitly on fitness playlist customization [1, 2, 3].
Spotify previously offered a tempo-matching running feature from 2015 to 2018 that synced music pace to running speed but required no manual settings. The new mode requires users to set parameters such as workout type and BPM themselves [2, 3].
Earlier in 2026, Spotify partnered with Peloton to add fitness content to its app [1, 3]. This launch comes as Strava recently ended integrating Spotify playback within its app [1].
Spotify said the goal is to "spend less time hunting for the right music and more time moving," aiming to make workouts more seamless and motivating [2]. The company intends to expand Running Mode availability and features over time.
The new Running Mode is currently exclusive to Premium users on iOS and is part of Spotify’s growing fitness and wellness offerings.
