Runpreneur Journey Blog
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The Gospel of Route Planning: How I Navigate New Locations on a 1,938-Day Running Streak
The Gospel of Route Planning: How I Navigate New Locations on a 1,938-Day Running Streak
Today I want to talk about something that is absolutely non-negotiable when you are running in new locations as frequently as I do: a decent route planning process. If you are a regular runner who travels, you know the anxiety of "winging it" in a place you don't know. When you are on a mission to run 40,075km, a full lap of the world, and raise £1M for children’s causes, you cannot afford to get lost, stuck in a stinging nettle nightmare, or end up on a dangerous road.
What I realised early on is that consistency requires systems. On Day 1,938 of this diary, I’m reflecting on the three-app stack that keeps me moving forward.
The Three-App Tech Stack
My process involves three specific tools: Strava, Footpath, and WorkoutOutDoors.
Strava (The Heatmap Discovery): I start with the Strava maps feature. It allows me to see where other people have actually run. Unless you are in the most isolated place on earth, someone else has likely logged a run there. I use the filtering mechanisms to look for trail runs versus road runs, and I check for elevation and specific distances.
Footpath (The Precision Tweak): Once I find a suitable route, I map it out in Footpath. This app is brilliant for "tweaking", I can increase or decrease the distance to meet my specific daily criteria, usually between 7.2km and 7.5km. It also allows me to check the "key" of the map to see if a path is truly runnable or better suited for a slow hike.
WorkoutOutDoors (The Execution): I don’t run with my phone, so I export the GPX route from Footpath to my watch via the WorkoutOutDoors app. It acts as a real-time GPS with a map on my wrist, even narrating when I need to turn right or go straight.
Learning the Hard Way
Even with a system, perspective matters. I’m currently in Saxmundham, Suffolk, celebrating my parents' 50th wedding anniversary. Today, I got it a little bit wrong. I didn’t use the Strava filters properly for an off-road section and ended up in a "stinging nettle nightmare", twice. I’ve now got about 20 stings on my legs to show for it.
The lesson for me was a reminder that running in unknown areas can be precarious. Following a proven process isn't just about the data; it's about safety and protecting the daily streak.
We are currently at ~15,504km with ~24,571km remaining to hit that 40,075km goal. Every mile planned is a mile closer to saving children's lives. If it’s not on Strava, did it even count?
Kevin's 40,075km Challenge: Raising £1 Million for Children
Meet Kevin, a dedicated Runpreneur who embarked on an extraordinary journey to raise £1 million for children in need. Over the course of his 40,075km challenge, Kevin's unwavering determination and passion inspired thousands to join the Runpreneur movement.
Runpreneur Vlogging: Capturing Kevin's Journey
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Empowering Children, One Step at a Time
As Kevin logged every kilometre of his 40,075km challenge, the true purpose behind his journey came into focus. Each step, each bead of sweat, fuelled essential healthcare, education, and nutrition programs for children in need around the world.
The Transformative 4x4x48 Challenge
Experience the thrill and personal growth of our iconic 48-hour running event. Witness the determination and resilience of Runpreneurs as they push their limits, one mile at a time.
Runpreneur Vlogging: Capturing the Journey
Dive into the visual stories of our Runpreneurs as they document their experiences through engaging video logs. Witness the challenges, triumphs, and moments of camaraderie that define the Runpreneur spirit.
Becoming a Runpreneur: Join the Movement
Learn how you can become a Runpreneur and be part of this global community. Discover the steps to sign up, complete the challenge, and share your journey, all while making a lasting difference.
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I am on a mission to raise £1,000,000 for children's causes by daily run-vlogging barefoot-style, covering the total distance of a lap around the world—40,075 km.