I refuse to go running with a phone - too heavy, and too distracting, running outside is one of the few places I _escape_ the phone for a bit. So I made sure to get a fitness tracker with onboard GPS. It syncs to the phone later, when I return, which then uploads workout data to the vendor's cloud.
I look at the results on my PC with a web browser, phone is a passive middleman and is never touched directly for fitness tracking.
Maybe he said it as in you feel you have it with you when you run. I've tried many things (arm bands, phone belts), but I still can't find a good place for it. There's always something too tight, too loose etc.
You may have tried this, but I run with my phone in an elasticated belt that's just tight enough to keep the phone stable without being uncomfortable. I really don't want to fork out for another device just for running. (I also find a watch on my wrist annoying when I don't wear one normally).
Not the OP but I used to do that - problem is phones are becoming so damn large even the elasticated belt doesnt work that great anymore. Too much bounce.
I found a "belt" thats much wider and doesnt have a clip (has to be sized just right) that does work better. But a bit of a pain to wear sometimes.
For years I just literally ran with the phone in my hand (got used to switching hands and positions for comfort) so I could still do music and tracking. Not that bad when you get used to it. Eventually got a Garmin watch (cheapest with maps and music) which works great.
9/10 runs I leave my phone at home, but when I do bring it for some reason, I'm very happy with my "Flipbelt(tm)". It carries a 250g phone with no slipping, sliding or bounce.
My Flipbelt has lost some tightness after three years and many laundry cycles, but it still manages a Pixel 10a with no problems.
The belt rests over the hip and I usually have the phone flat on my backside. I don't really notice it after a few steps.
question is _why_ are you bringing it on your run?
the OP says they want their run to be time away from the phone. Not just because it is too difficult to carry physically.
Ok, you don't want to fork out for another device just for running, but why do you need a device at all? And what if it is those "needs" that the OP is trying to get away from.
To have a small window of time when you are free from all the damn devices.
Do please link to leggings with pockets, I'll pass the info to some ladies I know...
For men, part of my "hiking pants" have zipped pockets that are big enough and placed well enough that the phone doesn't bother you when running or climbing or whatever. (Don't get me started on women's hiking pants, the missus buys hers from the men's section.)
I look at the results on my PC with a web browser, phone is a passive middleman and is never touched directly for fitness tracking.