Gmaps Pedometer

For those of you not familiar, ‘Gmaps’ is a reference to the Google Maps service. As great as the Google Maps service is on its own, many people are more excited by the recent move by Google to make the Google Maps API available for use by anyone (almost anyone anyway). All you have to do is sign up for an API key, an easy process though it gives Google a chance to deny questionable Websites hoping to use the Maps API. This has lead to many interesting applications that take advantage of the Google Maps API.

The Gmaps Pedometer was put together by a runner from New Jersey who wanted to track training distances without relying on carrying a pedometer or other GPS tracking device. Very cool idea, especially if you have regular routes for walking or jogging. To use the Gmaps Pedometer you simply double click to create points on the map to track a route. The distance will then be calculated, thanks to latitude and longitude coordinates. Ideas like this really give you a glimpse of what is possible with some open technology in the hands of creative people.