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Trail Running |  |
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See the Index for more topics, information, hints and tips.
I define a trail as not concrete or asphalt, but a natural surface like dirt or sand. It is uneven with obstacles like rocks and roots where you are surrounded by nature – trees, shrubs, birds, and other animals.
When I first started working on this page I had a few things that I wanted to share with others. But then every time I ran on a trail I’d be thinking: what have I learned that could help others, what would I tell someone who is new to trail running. And every time I would come up with at least a couple new things to add to the page. Sometimes it was a challenge to remember them all until I got back to my car to write them down. The page finally got so big and disorganized that I had to split it into different sections so I could organize it more logically.
Trail running is a great change of pace from road running, a fantastic way to beat the monotony of running on roads, tracks, or treadmills. Treadmills are to roads like roads are to trails. Trails are always different, always changing, always challenging, so peaceful and quiet, relaxing, thrilling and exciting. The trail is a gift. Enjoy and appreciate the trees, the wildlife, and the scenery.
Your mind is clearer and less distracted by civilization and technology when you are on the trail. It’s easier to forget about your troubles or it can be a calming place where you can work through problems. It's almost like meditation. It's very therapeutic!
They build mental and physical toughness. As you run you may notice your mind solving the many problems it has to contend with like where to place your foot next, how your body is feeling, what your body needs, how hard you should be running. As you solve these problems you gain more confidence.
You may also find your mind wandering to areas of your life that need your attention. This is not a bad thing as long as it doesn’t distract you from keeping safe on the trail. You may even find that because your mind is clearer and you are removed from the problem, that you are able to gain a new perspective and solve problems.
There’s a lot more to learn about trail running than road running. With trail running not only do you have the same performance challenges as a road runner, but there are lots of new techniques and skills that you have to learn. While you are running on a road you really don’t need to know how to fall or the best technique for climbing or descending a steep hill with rocks and roots. But these are skills that are very important for trail runners. It’s best to start on easy courses with experienced trail runners for some on-the-job-training until you learn the basic techniques and dangers. You will learn a LOT from the mistakes they've made!
Trails give you a great workout, too. They really build up the supporting muscles in your legs and torso and help you develop better balance. Because it is always changing it is much more challenging and your pace will be 10-20% slower than on the road, but it's also lower impact. Trails are also a bit more risky in some ways than running on a road. There's a chance you might get lost or fall.
After your first trail run, your body will let you know you did something different and challenging. Your legs, especially your calves, will be sore along with your core - abs and back.
Don't just think of a trail run as another workout on your schedule. Take some time to appreciate being out and experiencing nature and the beauty of God's creation! It's always exciting to explore a new trail. Learn to identify wildlife from their vocalizations and their tracks. Learn to identify plants from roots, leaves, seeds, nuts, and berries.
Look ahead and to the side to take in some of the beauty of your surroundings and maybe catch a special glimpse of nature ... a deer, bobcat, turkey, armadillo, rabbit, or raccoon. Remember you are in their house, so treat it with respect. Watch for any motion that could be an animal. Listen to the birds and other sounds and try not to step on the toads, frogs, and other critters. Drink in the sounds, sights, and smells of nature.
To appreciate a familiar trail try looking for 3, 4, or even 5 new or different things. Throughout the year various things will be growing and/or blooming. Different animals, particularly birds, may visit. Evidence of animals like tracks, scat, songs or calls, markings, nests or dens may be visible to the probing eye and attentive ear.
What’s the most unusual thing you have come across on the trail?
Don’t be so concerned about your time and pace that you can’t stop and investigate nature or celebrate a beautiful view.
Learn about the history of the trail, when it was built, who championed it, landmarks, the history of the area and if anyone or anything famous that happened there.
Running trails in the dark can be an almost magical if not terrifying experience, and it presents a number of challenges. You'll notice that all of your senses are heightened. Take in all the sounds of nature. If you think you hear an animal off the trail, hold your flashlight near your eyes and shine it in the direction of the sound. This makes it easier to see their eye shine. Or turn off your light, let your eyes adapt to the darkness and appreciate all the stars and fireflies and other things you can see.
In my area the Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association is a great source of maps and trail conditions.
Look for trails in your area by searching the National Geographic All Trails. Do a search on your city and the word 'trail'. Also look for hiking and biking trails.
You might be interest in learning about Camping.
