What is the best way to measure distance for running?

I am new to running and I am curious how to figure out the total distance I have run.  It's easy to do when I am at the gym or running around a track but how do you know if you are just running around the neighborhood?

http://www.mapmyrun.com/

i use google earth.  there are lots of on-line programs that use maps and GPS coordinates, but they usually only account for roads.  on google earth, i can see the trail system and greenspace behind my house.

Very cool -- thanks!

I use  the training log on runnersworld.com.  You can also keep track of any other exercise activity.

As a new runner, you would be better served focusing on how long you run at first, not on distance covered. Many new runners start by doing walking/running intervals in cycles they repeat for 20 to 30 minutes. When you can do 30 minutes of running non-stop, then start paying attention to distance.

I think one reason this method is so popular is it puts all the emphasis on how your body feels and takes the emphasis off of pushing yourself to cover a certain distance.

Remember to start really, really slowly and to walk before you think you need to! By the time you KNOW you need to slow down or stop, it is probably too late and damage is being done (not necessarily horrible damage, but making this a habit is a recipe for long-term injuries).

I LOVE http://www.mapmyrun.com/. It's really user-friendly and is very accurate (and free)!!!

Yep. Just keep mental track of what time you started and what time you got home, and then record it all on mapmyrun... I adore that site! I just wish they could manage to make it remember my login from one hour to the next!

Mapmyrun.com is amazing!! I'm one of those people who can't run unless I know exactly how far I'm running. :) This site has everything you could possibly need, so check it out! :)

Mapmyrun is an awesome, helpful site (I use mapmyride for biking), but just throwing an 'old-fashioned' method out there for those that may care...drive your route and keep track of the odometer reading.  This is especially easy for running (distance shorter and doesn't burn up a ton of gas like you would getting bike ride mileage stats).  Plus if you are already headed out on an errand, it shouldn't be out of your way too much.

if you know your general pace, like if you do a 10 minute mile or so on a track, than you can estimate your distance. If you have an iphone, theres an app called gps lite. Its sick!!! it has a gps stop watch and will give you all sorts of information on your "track". it'll tell you your average speed, you total time, your max speed, you can view your track that you took on a map, you can e-mail it to someone. its super. I love it.