How To Track Your Run

Need to know how to track your run? All runners need to know how to keep track of the distance and time that they run. Runners who are training for a race will want to know exactly how much they are improving on a daily basis. Runners who run for fitness will also need to keep track of their distance and times. A few simple tools are all a runner needs to successfully track his running data.

 To track your run, you will need:

• A running log, either on paper or online
• A computer (for an online runner's diary)
• A stopwatch
• A GPS system
• A pedometer

1. Get started recording your running. Often it is the beginning that is the hardest part of doing something, so it is best just to do it. You can choose either a computer-based runner's journal or stick to pen and paper. There are many different online (and offline) programs for tracking your progress as a runner. There are also many free programs out there, so you don't have to spend a lot. Computer-aided running journals can be a great help to someone who wants to analyze his running, but may be too sophisticated for a beginner. Do an internet search if you decide to go this route. There is a lot to be said for a pen-and-paper runner's journal. It is portable, cheap and you can fully customize your log to track what you need to.
2. Decide what you need to record in your running log. What information is important for you to record in your runner's diary? This is up to you. This is where the pen and paper method shines. Choose the way that you want to record your running data. You might want to think about including the following: times, dates, minutes of your run, miles covered, weather conditions, goals for the day, your route, and any food or drink consumed during the run. Of course, you can choose your own categories.
3. Use your jogging journal to track your runs. Even the best computer-aided software won't help you to improve your running if you don't use it. Get into the habit of filling out your running journal immediately after a run. Make this a part of your exercise routine, and soon you will notice an improvement in your running.