In high-density urban areas where land is at a premium, Informal Running Environments (IRE) provides opportunities for mixed use, which is conducive to improving the current problem of insufficient and uneven distribution of fitness space. Running environments dominated by linear space are often difficult to study through traditional research methods, while the emergence of the crowdsourcing model enables Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) to provide effective data support. Firstly, text semantic analysis was done based on the recommended route data from mobile fitness APP. The key factors and importance levels that influence people's preference on IRE are identified. Secondly, a supply and demand evaluation for the informal running environment was constructed. Priority areas for renewal in the city were identified. Finally, a strategy toolbox containing visual case patterns was developed to provide decision-makers with directional and easy-to-implement guidance. Key factors such as people, paving, lighting, vehicles, residential areas, transportation facilities, green spaces, waterfront and scenery were found to have a significant impact on running behavior. The research provides a quantitative evaluation and optimization method for urban renewal.