Do you want to explore running beyond the paved pavements, sidewalks and roads around your home? Then trail running could be your new lifestyle. Running on trails with different terrain benefits your fitness and health, challenges you to focus and builds your perseverance. Moreover, you will always be surrounded by the calming beauty of nature without any disturbances. Trail running is an enjoyable sport suitable for every runner. If you are a beginner in the sport, read on for six things to get you started with trail running.
1. Discover Excellent Trails
Unlike the unchanging paved sidewalks or pavements you are used to, every trail is different. You will come across loose dirt pathways, uneven rocky trails, and flat, steep or meandering routes filled with gravel or tree roots. Excellent trails aren’t only found near country sides or mountains; you can also discover good trail running pathways in your city or suburban neighbourhood. Consider researching online to find the most suitable trails near you. You can also contact running clubs near your home and enquire about the best tracks.
2. Pack Crucial Trail Running Equipment
Trail running is different from your usual running, and sometimes you may find trails that are distant from your house. It is crucial to gear up with some trail running equipment to make your run comfortable and safe. They include:
• The hydration pack- ensure you carry enough water to keep hydrating and maintain energy throughout the running session.
• GPS watch- it is excellent for capturing your running distance, heart rate and the number of calories you burn during your run.
• Smartphone-allows you to contact people for help if you get lost or injured.
• Windbreaker- trail running is unpredictable, and you may experience harsh weather at some point. Packing a windbreaker helps you keep warm if the weather becomes cool.
• Map- if you are running in an area without an excellent connection, a map is a suitable backup plan in case you need to check directions.
• A small first-aid kit- is essential for taking care of medical emergencies in case of a scratch or fall.
3. Focus On Your Pace and Effort
Shifting from road to trail running requires you to modify your running form, gear, and technique. Running on roads and pavements is a bit easier because the route is clear, and you can predict what to expect from start to finish. Trails are so different, and you need to figure out what to expect if you have not run a particular route.
When starting your first trail run, you can begin with your usual road running speed and then go a bit lower as you proceed. Expect to take longer on trails because you may need to slow down to traverse uneven terrain.
You need to shift your focus from the running time and speed to the amount of effort you exert on your run. Ensure you slow down, walk in hilly or rocky sections, and pick up pace in flat and smooth pathways.
Lastly, pay attention to where you step. Ensure you are mentally present on the run and keep scanning the route a few meters ahead to notice any obstacles and avoid them.
4. Exercise Trail Running Safety
Most trails require running in remote areas or through a forest or mountain. Ensure your friend or family member knows where you intend to run and your expected return time. You can also bring a friend on your run or the necessary trail running equipment discussed above. If running through a forest, stay alert and beware of sections where wild animals frequent.
5. Dress Suitably
It is necessary to stay prepared for any expected weather changes. If your run is short, the conditions may remain the same from start to finish. However, if you plan to trail run for over an hour, ensure you dress suitably in case the weather becomes unbearable. Bring a windbreaker, waterproof jackets or tights and a cap to stay comfortable.
6. Invest in the Right Trail Running Shoes
Your usual road running sports shoes may be unsuitable for trail running. Invest in good quality trail running shoes that offer excellent support, great track gripping potential, stability and comfort throughout your run. There is a wide range of trail shoes in the market, and you should purchase them depending on your foot type and trail running intensity and route. Research widely and enquire from shoe experts on the most suitable shoes for trail running.
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