The training has begun for my Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon in November. I need to give myself time to really get my body (and mind) in shape and READY to rock and roll! I’ve been slowly creeping up in terms of mileage that I’m running. I started out with a mile… then a mile and half… then 2 miles… then 2 1/2 miles… then 3 miles… and now right over that 3 1/2 mile range. I’m proud of myself for getting out there and just doing it. It’s not always easy for me to fit my runs in with 5 kids, but I’m determined and committed.
Running on the treadmill is easy. I can track my mileage and time by just looking down.
Running outside is a different story. I rely on apps to get me through my short and longer runs. There’s no way I can gauge mileage when I’m just out there doing my thing. I’m so focused on keeping myself centered and in the zone, I’m not thinking about how far I’ve run… there’s apps to do that for me.
Best Running Apps:
RunKeeper – I obsessed with RunKeeper. Keeping it totally honest here, this is the one I’ve been using recently on all of my runs. It’s easy. There’s a free option. It’s a great way to socially share your stats. I love it. The app records your pace, distance, total time, calories burned, etc. You can also download and follow running routes. And my personal favorite, which keeps my in track (pun intended!), you can easily see your progress and history.
Runtastic – I’ve been seeing a ton of people talking about Runtastic in some of my running Facebook groups. The Runtastic allows you to track your running, jogging, walking, cycling and other fitness activities. Share your sports activities, you can discover new running routes and reach exercise goals.
Nike+ Running App – Another one people love! Whether on a treadmill, trail or track, the app accurately records your pace, distance traveled and time, complete with audio feedback and a route map. You can even load a “Power Song” of your choice, as well as setting up Spotify Premium “Pace Stations” of running music tailored to your target running pace. I love seeing people post their Nike+ results on Facebook!
Endomondo – Oh, yes! People LOVE this one! It’s designed to track your workouts, provide audio feedback along the way and offer guidance on how to reach your goal. It’s a free personal trainer in your pocket which syncs with Endomondo.com, where you can access a full training log and analyze your fitness activity.
Zombies, Run!
This has my best friend Vera Sweeney written ALL over it! What makes Zombies, Run! different is the fact it turns your morning jog into a story about survival. You’re not just tracking your run with stats and numbers—you’re building a base full of supplies, and using zombie chases as interval training. It’s clearly not the app for the stat-obsessed, but it’s a fantastic experience for anyone who hates jogging.
