Runner’s Logs

For those of us who love running, the miles keep flying by. But how many times do we actually keep track of the runs? The mileage, the times, the hear rate are all important factors in achieving optimum running form.
I was looking for runner’s logs that can be maintained online and can be updated easily, that offer graphs and other such visual features, something that can be done at any system – basically a web 2.0 feature – thats available 24/7, on mobile and virtually any piece that can open a web page.
That’s a pretty tall list to ask for and I was pleasantly surprised by what I found

RunningAhead really captured my attention by its simplicity and ease of use. Log all your workouts such as running, cycling, swimming, and weight training. Create custom workouts to track your other activities in your active lifestyle. You can create running routes, measure your running routes and create elevation profiles. Their mapping tool is easy and fun. It is an excellent alternative to the expensive GPS devices. You can also analyze your data and visualize your training progress through colorful graphs. Find specific workout entries using different criteria. Track your shoe mileage to reduce injury.

Nike emerged as the leader in the “coolness” factor of their runner’s log – basically with a lot of graphics and other such stuff. The best part though is that the community for nike is worldwide, very expansive and comprehensive. They have a blog, public groups that get together for group runs and social events etc. All in all, Nike runners log gives you more than a log. It gives you the doorway to an infinite supply of running resources.

Runner’s World‘s Log turned out to be my favorite – it was a hybrid of nike’s cool factor and world class community with the simplicity built into it. They even sent me a hardcopy to maintain at home. They are hosting this in partnership with Adidas- My favorite shoe.