Can you track a route with Google Maps?

Track Your Route with Google Maps: A Guide for Runners

Introduction

As a runner, it’s important to have a reliable way to track your progress and plan your routes. Google Maps offers several features that make it an excellent tool for this purpose. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of creating a running route map in Google Maps.

Creating a New Map

1. Log into Google Maps: Go to www.google.com/maps and sign in with your Google account.
2. Click My Maps: Find the “My Maps” tab in the top left corner and click on it.
3. Create a New Map: Click on the blue “Create” button.

Naming Your Map

Once you’ve created a new map, it’s important to give it a name that will help you identify it later. Click on the “Untitled map” field at the top and enter a descriptive name, such as “Running Route – [Your Neighborhood].”

Pinpointing Locations

Now, it’s time to add locations to your map. This will help you create a running route that you can follow.

1. Use the Marker Tool: Click on the “Add marker” icon (a red pin) in the top toolbar.
2. Pinpoint Locations: Move the map around and click on locations along your desired running path. Each marker represents a point on your route.
3. Add Descriptions: If desired, you can click on a marker and add a description, such as “turn left here” or “water fountain.”

Customizing Your Map

Google Maps allows you to customize your map to suit your needs.

1. Change Map Style: Click on the “Base map” icon in the top right corner and select a map style that provides the best visibility for running, such as “Terrain” or “Satellite.”
2. Adjust Zoom Level: Use the zoom controls to adjust the level of detail on the map.
3. Add Layers: You can add additional layers, such as traffic conditions or public transit information, to enhance the map’s functionality.

Saving and Sharing

Once you’re satisfied with your running route map, you can save and share it.

1. Save Map: Click on the “Save” button.
2. Share Map: Click on the “Share” button to generate a unique link that you can share with others. You can also choose to embed the map on a website or blog.

Conclusion

Creating a running route map in Google Maps is a simple and effective way to track your progress, plan your paths, and share them with others. By following these steps, you can unlock the full potential of Google Maps as a tool for runners.