Where to Put Your Phone When Running: The Ultimate Guide to Safe, Bounce-Free Solutions

Whether you want to listen to your favourite music, take a mid-run selfie, or capture your performance data on the go, your phone is often a vital part of your running equipment.

But when it comes to taking your favourite tech out on your run, holding it in the palm of your hand isn’t the best idea – and not just because you risk the costly mistake of dropping it.

Running with your phone in your hand can actually affect your form. While it might not feel like much, the additional weight can make you use your holding arm differently, leading you to overcompensate on the opposite side.

And, over time, that sub-optimal technique can lead to injuries, which, as a keen runner, you’ll be desperate to avoid.

So, if holding your phone is a no-no, what are the other options? You need a solution that keeps your phone safe and secure, minimises movement, and doesn’t cause chafing from repeated contact with your skin.

Luckily, we’ve got plenty of suggestions for where to put your phone while running: read on to find out our most practical solutions.

Where to put your phone while running: Waist-packs and belts

Carrying your phone in a waistpack or belt that straps securely around your waist is, for our money, probably the best way to carry your phone while you’re racking up the miles.

At ASICS, we offer a range of solutions, including specially designed running belts and waistpacks that keep your phone snug and secure, preventing it from bouncing around and distracting you.

Running belts

Worn around the waist, either against your skin or over a thin top, running belts let you comfortably stash your phone and then forget about it until you need it.

Look for adjustable options: the fit should be snug enough that it doesn’t move up and down as you run, yet not so tight that it restricts your movement or feels uncomfortable. Breathable fabric is also a big advantage if you prefer to wear your belt against your skin.

If you’re just going for a run around the block and don’t need to take much with you, we’d recommend the ASICS men’s and women’s running belts. They are slimline, soft, and a comfortable option for keeping your phone safe.

Running pouches

Another lightweight option is a running pouch, which tends to look a little like an old-school bum bag, with an adjustable waistband and a front storage compartment.

Most runners find that a running pouch sits more comfortably over a thin top than against the skin, but you still need one made of breathable material to keep you from getting hot and clammy underneath it.

Our pouches feature spacious storage, are super lightweight, made from breathable material, and are adjustable to fit your waist size.

Running waistpacks

Running waistpacks are a great way to stash everything you need when you’re out and about: your keys, cards, energy gels, sunglasses, some spare cash, and of course, your phone.

Because they’re bigger and designed to carry more kit, you need a pack with a stretchable, adjustable, and comfortable waistband. This will keep the pack in place and prevent it from bouncing up and down against your back. And breathable fabric is a must, otherwise you’ll feel hot and sticky when you up the pace.

Where to put your phone while running: Clothing solutions

If you don’t want to take any extra kit out with you, then investing in some running clothing with phone-safe pockets is the best option.

Running tights and shorts with pockets

A pair of running tights or shorts with zipped or deep-compression pockets is a good investment for runners of all levels.

Look for options with either side-thigh pockets to reduce bounce, or a centre-back waistband so that the extra weight of your phone doesn't affect your stride.

The right running gear should offer all of these solutions, and then some. Look for running legging or tights made from buttery-soft fabric, with reflective details to help improve visibility in low-light conditions and practical storage options such as side-thigh phone pockets.

(A quick additional top tip here: you can place your phone in a sandwich bag inside these pockets to protect it from sweat and rain. You’ll still be able to use your touchscreen, and there’s no risk of damage from the elements.)

If you prefer something slightly looser-fitting, running trousers can be an excellent choice. Styles made from wind-resistant, water-repellent materials offer extra protection from the elements and often feature secure storage solutions, such as discreet waistband or back pockets, to keep valuables close at hand without becoming a distraction while you’re on the move.

And for those hot summer days, lightweight running shorts made from flexible, breathable fabrics can help keep you comfortable. Many designs now include multiple easy-to-access storage compartments and integrated waistband pockets, providing convenient space for all of your on-the-road essentials.

Sports bras with phone pockets

Stashing your mobile phone in your sports bra might not sound like the most elegant solution, but innovation is a wonderful thing: there are specially designed sports bras on the market that feature phone-sized pockets for your small valuables.

Usually, these pockets are found either on the rear of the bra in racerback designs (great for phone security but not so great for instant access) or on the front; the latter offers easier access but can cause chafing on a long run.

The downside is that these pockets might not be sweatproof or waterproof, but you can always use the sandwich bag trick here, too.

Where to put your phone while running: Armbands and magnetic solutions

Still not sure where to put your phone when running? Strapping it to your arm, or attaching it to an item of clothing with a specially designed magnetic tool, is a safe bet.

Running armbands

A running armband is a very handy piece of kit that you can grab quickly as you head out the door.

They’re sweat-resistant and attach securely to your arm. One of the biggest benefits of this solution is that you don’t have to remove the phone from the pouch to use the screen, making this a firm favourite phone-storage solution for many runners.

However, it’s worth noting that some athletes find that the additional weight can interfere with their arm swing, leading to uneven biomechanics.

Magnetic clips

Magnetic running clips are minimalist solutions that secure and protect your valuables without the need for pockets or belts.

Using a strong magnetic fastening, they sandwich fabric between two plates, allowing you to clip your phone, keys or a card securely to a waistband, shorts, or even the back of a sports bra.

Their appeal lies in their versatility and simplicity – when positioned correctly and secured tightly, they can feel virtually bounce-free.

The trade-off is capacity and comfort: they’re best suited to carrying just the basics, and because part of the clip sits against the body, you may need to apply anti-chafe cream to avoid irritation on longer or sweatier runs.

Where to put your phone while running: Hydration solutions

If you’re a regular long-distance runner, then you’ll no doubt be familiar with the water carrier.

You wouldn’t necessarily want to wear a water carrier solely to carry your phone, as there are far less cumbersome options available.

However, if you’re heading out for at least an hour, you should take water with you to replenish the fluids you lose through sweat (and maybe a couple of gels, too).

Featuring an array of zippable front-vest pockets for quick access, this super-lightweight and versatile vest includes an expandable back panel for freedom of movement and ultra-comfort when wearing over a running top or jacket.

Find what works for you: Safe, bounce-free phone options for every runner

Choosing where to put your phone while running really comes down to the distance and the type of run you’re doing, and your personal preference.

For shorter runs, a slim running belt or pouch is usually all you need to keep your phone secure and bounce-free without feeling bulky.

For longer runs or trail sessions, a waistpack or hydration vest with dedicated storage offers comfort, stability, and easy access to essentials.

And if you prefer not to carry extra kit, running tights or shorts with secure pockets are a great alternative.

Whatever you choose, avoid holding your phone in your hand: you risk dropping it, and it can affect your form and create imbalance over time.