Now that the weather is actually jumping above 30 degrees and outdoor activities are actually bearable, it’s time to get outside to play Frisbee, go biking, or even go for a run. The question is: where are the best places to run on campus? And, how far are you actually running?
There is actually a website that can make this super easy for you. MapMyRun.com allows you to check out running routes in your area already posted and rated by other runners, as well as to plot out your own routes on a map. The map calculates the miles of the run, and allows you to visualize where you will be running. You may discover that there are more running routes in Plymouth than you thought. Now you no longer have to be stuck with the monotony of the same routine. The time has come to change it up and add some variety to your running routine.
Once you create a profile for yourself, you can then begin tracking your runs in a workout log in order to keep track of how many miles you are running each day. This works for biking and walking as well. The site gives you a lot of options that allow you to create a detailed fitness plan that you can easily follow. Essentially, the site serves as your own (virtual) personal trainer!
If you want to take running a step further, you can also train for events and search them on the site. With the training log, you can easily make a schedule for yourself that counts down the days until race day. Another nice feature of the website is the nutrition section. Similar to the training log, you can track your meals in a food log to see if you are receiving the proper nutrients each day. The site allows you to calculate your personal calorie intake, and estimate how many calories you will burn with each workout.
MapMyRun.com is a great tool for those who are looking to really get in shape this spring in order to prepare for summer. It lays out everything you need to know, and allows you to connect to people who are also designing running routes. If you feel stuck not knowing where to run or go biking, hop on this site and pull up a map so you can plan out distances and calculate the calories you’ve burned. It is absolutely free and you can become your own personal trainer with this useful resource. If your New Year’s resolution was to run a marathon, then get outside and make it happen!