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by James Neely - freelance writer for hire

With warmer weather in the upper states comes the desire to get out and exercise more.  Running is a common physical workout for many people.  The cardiovascular workout is hard to beat.  The investment in clothes and shoes is minimal.  There are no monthly dues or fees.  And you get to experience the great outdoors at the same time.

There are inherent risks in running that should not be ignored.  These include rude drivers on streets and roads, unfettered dogs that chase after you, and even weather.

One item that runners should add to their regimen to help increase safety is a GPS Tracking device.  Here’s why:

Track progress.  If you have not yet mapped out your running circuit, then you might not know the distances which you are running.  A GPS tracking device maps your running for you so that you know exactly what distances you are running and the time that it takes you to complete your route.  This helps promote consistency of distances and times.  You can compare your times and find out how much improvement you have made over a period of time.  This becomes especially important if you are a runner that competes in marathons and mini-marathons.

Safety and security.  Having the ability to locate you in case of a problem is priceless to those who are interested in your whereabouts during your running times.  You never know what circumstances you might encounter, so it is better to be prepared than not.

Map out running routes.  Mapping out different running routes helps you to be able to run different routes so that they do not become mundane.  Also, different terrain offers different challenges to runners.  Routes that have a lot of hills add time to your runs and supply resistance which helps your body become stronger.  But, you might not want to run that route all of the time.  Or maybe run a shorter route when you do.  With a GPS tracking device, you can print out your maps and compare them and make decisions according to the data presented.

Track marathon races.  If you are into the marathons, you can track your races along with the times.  Yes, these are kept for you in the race, but you can compare your own data to see which is more accurate.  Keep a log of all of your races and use the data supplied on the GPS tracking device as your primary source of information.  You will become used to it and comfortable using it over anything else.

There are several GPS tracking devices available, but the Tracking Key is one that you should consider if you are a runner.