Google Outlines Three Ways Search's AI Features Can Help Runners Prepare for a Race

The company said searches including "run club," "how to choose running shoes" and "how to train for a marathon" have all reached all-time highs this year, a trend it tied to people looking for ways to spend less time online. The post lays out three uses of Search for runners preparing for a race.

For training, Google said AI Mode in Search can map out a strategy and produce a detailed schedule. A user can select the Canvas tool from the plus menu and ask it to build a plan that recommends cross-training and strength-building work. The post gives the example of a request for a sub-4.5-hour training plan for the Texas Marathon with routes around Montrose, from a runner who currently runs four times a week with a longest run of seven to nine miles. Google said AI Mode can also draw on perspectives from sites and creators across the web.

Google said runners who connect a YouTube Music account to Search can ask AI Mode to create a custom playlist for a run. The post describes mental endurance as being as important as physical endurance in training for longer distances, and names boredom and flagging energy during long runs as the problems the playlist is meant to address.

On equipment, Google pointed to its Shopping Graph, which it said holds more than 60 billion product listings. Search can filter products against specific constraints, such as road shoes for wide feet, lightweight hydration vests under $80 or anti-chafing apparel, and can return tailored recommendations, side-by-side comparisons of in-stock options and local availability.

The post did not give a timeline for when the features described became available or say whether they are offered in all markets.