Oh the amazing features of the Internet, even for runners...

If you’re a runner, perhaps you can relate to this scenario: 

You’ve been running outside for quite some time; enjoying the fresh air, taking in the scenery, and completely lost in thought. Suddenly, you have a bit of a meltdown…

“Wait a second; where am I? How do I get home? 

How long have I been running for?  

And, more importantly, how will I ever figure out, 

and therefore get credit for, the amount that I have just ran?”

I used to have this moment ALL the time when I started running. I would estimate the distance I ran based on the amount of time that I was out for. And then, I realized just how inaccurate this method truly was.

My speed, although fairly consistent, does vary depending on the type of day I’m having, type of mood that I happen to be in when I step out the door, and even what I’ve ate throughout the day.

After discovering a little site called walkjogrun.net, all of this has changed.

I’m pretty much in love with this site. Part of me cannot wait to finish my run, so I can go home and map it out to see my distance. It’s very simple to use:

• Create an account
• Enter your "Starting Point"
• Voila! Your neighbourhood map will appear.
• Simply click and drag your route on the map (a StreetView map from GoogleMaps)

Another cool feature is that the site actually allows you to record your routes and your running times, so you can compare your exact distance versus the amount of time it took you to finish.

Definitely check out this website if you are a runner, cyclist or even a walker. You can search for routes in your area. So, if you don’t feel like getting lost in the midst of trekking out a new 10k, then search for a pre-existing route near home and find one at your fingertips.

All of this would not be possible without the wonders of Satellite imaging. At first, I thought the whole concept of GoogleMaps was slightly invading, but I take back any negative feelings I may have had because of my new addiction.

Happy Running!