My data is uploaded in a lot of places. SportTracks is my primary tracker, I've been using it since 2010 and have over 14,000 miles recorded there. My data is also uploaded to Suunto Movescount, Strava, TrainingPeaks, and MapMyRun. And Les takes my data into Golden Cheetah for further analysis! Each of these serve a purpose - Movescount is my Suunto Ambit2 collector and I also use it to set up my watch. Strava is my social media spot, the place where I connect with other runners and cyclists (besides the blog world.) I use TrainingPeaks when I'm following my marathon training plan. And then there's MapMyRun...
I originally used MapMyRun to create routes. This is especially helpful when planning long runs. I can make sure I'm running near parks for water and potty breaks. This also helps when I don't want to get home with two miles left on the plan. I prefer to get as far from home as possible before making my way back.
In the past couple of years I have also joined lots of MapMyRun challenges. My data syncs automatically, so there's nothing for me to do but go out and run, walk, or ride. Unlike most Strava challenges, MapMyRun challenges have real prizes. I haven't won anything big, but I have received several Under Armour gift cards and coupons.
Most of the challenges last about a month, but there is one called "You VS the Year 2017." The goal is to run 1017km in 2017. After my run this morning, I received an email letting me know I had crossed the 500km mark. With 238 days remaining this year, I am feeling really good about accomplishing this goal. For many runners this isn't much, but I have almost the same number of cycling miles as well.
Steady. That's the word for me for 2017. I'm setting some PRs here and there, but being consistent is really satisfying right now.
How do you track your miles? Do you join challenges?
