I’ve deleted all my fitness apps for my mental health. I can’t stand the competitiveness

The lockdown fitness industry is booming, but Anna Matheson finds the pressure to perform on tracking apps too intense

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Puffing as I rounded the last corner, I pushed myself into a sprint. By the time I ran the last few yards I felt sick and dizzy. Still, I was proud I’d managed 5k on a day when I really didn’t feel like exercising. Wheezing to catch my breath, I ripped off my running armband, which was holding my phone, and swiped open my tracking app to press stop.

The pride I’d felt moments before quickly gave way as I realised I hadn’t shaved any seconds off my usual running time. No matter how hard I tried, I never seemed able to dip below the 30-minute mark. Deflated and red faced, I retreated upstairs to my flat and sulked in the shower.

Six months ago, making the effort go for a run would’ve been enough to make me feel great. I’m not a natural runner, I prefer team sports. But for the last few years I’ve tried to go out for a jog semi-regularly to keep up my fitness and clear my head. I’ve used tracking apps on and off but never been too bothered about improving my time or racking up more miles.