On Your Mark, Get Set, Run

By Todd McClamroch in News on Mar 9, 2006 6:38PM

The recent spring-like weather almost inspired Chicagoist to dust off our running shoes, but then we thought, nah, we'll write about running instead. Springtime signifies the start of the running season for all but those diehards who actually run through the winter months.

Plotting out a variety of routes to run is a great way to start the running season. We prefer to change our routes regularly to fight boredom, to stimulate our mind and to increase our distance. Getting in a car and driving a course to measure the overall distance is so last year. A better way to plan out routes is with online tools like the Google Maps Pedometer.

The Google Map Pedometer lets you mark a route on a map while it calculates the distance for each leg and for the total route. It also allows you to save the route. USA Track & Field and Walk, Jog, Run offer community-based running routes that allow you to view and share your routes while also viewing those created by others.

Once you have warmed yourself up the Chicago Area Runners Association is a great resource for finding races to compete in. After looking over the 2006 calendar Chicagoist is excited to compete in the Race to Wrigley 5K on April 15th. We figure this is the best race to start the season off as there is no pressure to win; and in true Cubs spirit, you are still celebrated while pulling up in the back of the pack.

Photo via cjkarr.