Best (and cheapest) way to map distance?

[Ash&Wes07]

I would LOVE to get a Garmin, but it is just not in the cards.

I've been measuring runs when I'm in the car, but I'd like to know my distance while I'm running, instead of after or pre-mapping routes.

Any rec's for a good and cheap pedometer or stopwatch/distance tracker?

I had a cheapie one from Target (it was like $5, but it stunk).

 

[Swmr359]

I use mapmyrun.com It uses goggle maps, and you just draw out your route. It's pretty easy to use, and free!

 

[DisneyPiPhi]

I use the Gmap Pedometer to create a map of my route.

 

[FireDancer]

I use Microsoft Streets & Trips but if you are looking for the cheapest download Google Earth. It is free and you can plot out distances on it.

 

[StitchAttack]

You won't find a cheap distance watch that is going to be much good, but you might be able to find a Garmin on ebay for less than the price of a new one.

Another option is to just run by time instead of distance. Lots of people train this way and many training plans actually suggest this.

 

[disneygirlinnj]

mapmyrun.com is free and pretty decent! I used it all the time before I bought my garmin!

 

[VernRDH]

mapmyrun.com is free and pretty decent! I used it all the time before I bought my garmin!

Same thing for me too. I know that the Garmin 101, which is pretty basic but tracks distance, can be bought for less than $100, probably less on ebay. I don't know of anything else that would track distance while you are out, you might just have to track before or after runs.