Training Tip: Map Your Run

As technology continues to become an important tool for runners, there are many useful gadgets available to improve your training. Many training aides, such as GPS watches or the popular Nike Plus system can provide you with a detailed analysis of your run that can be very helpful to improving your training. However, if expensive gadgetry is not for you, consider a more cost effective solution, such as USA Track and Field's America's Running Routes, a free program that allows you, via a Google Map-like interface, to plot your run.  Once you have finished mapping your run, Running Routes tells you the estimated distance of your run and also provides an elevation profile of your route.  Basic information such as this can be invaluable in improving your daily training regiment.  USATF also allows you to store your route in their database of nearly 300,000 running routes across America.  Furthermore, you can also search this database to find routes that other runners in your area have created.  This feature is a great way to beat the boredom of training by finding new places to run.  Overall, the more you learn about how you train, the more effective your training becomes.