How to Read Running Elevation Charts

Often used for marathons, an elevation chart maps out the elevation change of a specific run and at what mile the runner will come across the elevation. Some charts even include the percentage of elevation lost and gained at each elevation change. Elevation charts help runners prepare for their upcoming run and allows them to train for changes in elevation. This tool allows runners to know what to expect come race day.

Instructions

    • 1

      Step back and look at the entire graph. You will notice a colored-in section which may roughly resemble hills or mountains. The line tracing the colored-in section of the graph is the elevation change throughout your run.

    • 2

      Look at the mileage located at the bottom of the chart. Mile 1 begins on the left side of the chart and the ending mile will be on the right side of the chart. Mile charts may be split by mile, half-mile or quarter-mile.

    • 3

      Read the left side of the chart. Elevation numbers represented in feet are located here. The amount of elevation gain or loss during the run will determine how many and what numbers you see. Sea level is represented by 0 and elevation increases from 0. Some locations may be below 0, so the chart may begin at -100, for example, which stands for 100 feet below sea level.

    • 4

      Compare the two pieces of measurement. For example, if you want to know what the elevation is at mile 5, trace your finger along the bottom until you find 5. Move directly up from mile 5 until the colored section of the graph ends. Trace your finger to the left side until you hit a number along elevation, for example 500. So at mile 5, you will be running at a 500-foot elevation.

    • 5

      Read any other information that may be included in the chart. For example, you may find an overall elevation gain which shows the percentage of elevation you gain throughout the run. You may also see a starting altitude number and an ending altitude number.