TFS Review: Leading Example Coaching’s Running Log Software
Posted September 23rd, 2006 at 5:00 AM by Adam Jacobs
Section: Running & Training, Gear & Apparel, Miscellaneous, Product Reviews, Special Features, TFS Reviews
Check out our review of Leading Example’s Running Log Software. You can also try it for yourself and let us know what you think. They offer a free trial download (although that version will not contain many of the features that are available in the full version).
Product: Leading Example Coaching’s Running Log Software
Price: $9.99
Rating: Average 6.1/10.0
Pros: Good for beginners, training log, mileage/pace calculations, progress graphs, shoe tracker, goal setter
Cons: Cannot calculate calories burned, insufficient for advanced runners, incompatible with portable mileage trackers, incompatible with Google Pedometer, design flaws
Overall: L.E.’s Running Software can be helpful and is certainly more effective than a mere paper training book or journal. However, this product is not worth the money for advanced and very competitive runners.
Performance - 5.75 The software is capable of tracking your mileage, graphing your progress and also allows you to set goals. One feature I particularly like is that it allows you to accurately track how many miles you have put on your running shoes. Wondering why this is important? Then check out: When to ‘Kick’ Your Old ‘Kicks’)
L.E. asserts, “Whether you’re a serious runner or a weekend jogger. This fantastic Running Log will help you.” However, after reviewing this product I believe that most serious runners and exercise enthusiasts would likely be disappointed.
The software only allows you to enter how many calories you burned. They really need to add a calculation tool, like those that can be found on Runner’s World Online. In addition, serious improvements need to be made in terms of compatibility. There is no interface or built-in support for the data that comes from devices like the Garmin Forerunner 305 or the Nike+iPod Sport Kit.
Design - 5.75 - Some welcome additions might be motivational quotes, an option to enter information on the weather or how you felt during your runs, a page to input your performance in marathons or other races (so you can compare from year-to-year), etc. Other design flaws are mentioned above. The software could also be upgraded aesthetically.
Ease of Use - 9 - The software is quite easy to use for anyone who has even the most basic knowledge of Microsoft Excel. You simply enter in the distance and time of your run, in addition to what shoes you used. Then the software will automatically calculate your pace, track your mileage, etc. It can be somewhat cumbersome to input all of your goals, but there is really no good way around that.
Like I mentioned above - this software will likely fall short of the needs of anyone above a beginner or traditionalists who prefer not to use products like the Garmin Forerunner or the Nike+iPod Sport Kit.
Editor’s note - The overall rating was calculated by weighting Performance as 60%, Design as 30% and Ease of Use as 10%. Total results are rounded.
Pictures taken directly from: [Leading Example]
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Tags: calories, Garmin, ipod, mileage, nike, Nike+ipod, pedometer, review, running journal, running software, sneakers, software, sport kit, trianing plan
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