The data reveals 790,000 people downloaded the NHS fitness app in 2024, with 9.3 million runs started, and 8.7 million NHS Couch to 5K runs completed last year.

Designed to help beginners gradually build up to running 5 kilometres, the app's popularity has continuously grown with more than 7 million downloads since it was first launched in 2016.

As we move into 2025, people are being encouraged to download the app and join the hundreds of thousands of people who got last year off to a healthy start. 

Public health minister, Andrew Gwynne, said: ‘New year is the time to reset, outline new goals and adopt healthier habits for the year ahead. For many of us, getting more exercise and implementing more movement into our daily lives is top of the list. 

‘The NHS Couch to 5K app is a great way to get fitter and build sustainable running habits.

‘Keeping fit can have a positive impact on our health, preventing risks of developing serious illness like diabetes and heart disease and can help to reduce pressure on the NHS. With our Plan for Change, this government is committed to getting the NHS back on its feet by moving from sickness to prevention.'

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS national medical director, added: ‘The Couch to 5K programme is a fantastic way to get into running and be on track for a healthier new year.

‘We know that regular exercise helps reduce the risk of long-term illnesses and has enormous health benefits, as well as reducing pressure on the NHS.'

Following user demand, Beyond NHS Couch to 5K ‘graduation' content is now available for people who successfully complete the running programme to help motivate people to make running habitual, helping them to improve further on speed, stamina and technique.