Embarking on the untamed paths of nature, trail running transcends the ordinary, offering enthusiasts a thrilling escape from the monotony of paved roads and tracks. Transitioning from road running to trail running might take a bit of patience and seem a bit daunting at first, but the rewards are leaps and bounds better than the sore quads! Here’s a rundown of how hitting the trails is a great addition to your training:
Good Views and A Different Experience
Are you tired of having to run on crowded sidewalks with noisy vehicles on the side, breathing in the heavily polluted air of the metro? You can replace those with trees lined on the side of the trail and picturesque views, while being greeted by locals, other trail runners, and even some friendly mountain bikers. The trails are a nice go-to when you want a drastic change of pace and scenery. Take in the experience of the environment with your friends and make your heart pound with the beautiful views and seemingly never-ending yet thrilling uphills.
Good Cross Training Exercise
A lot of runners, like us here at runnr, who do not wish to let go of running completely just to cross train, found the best excuse in trail running. Given the surface is softer as compared to the pavement, it's definitely more forgiving on the joints. The training stimuli might be different and there are certainly a few challenges which are not present in road running, but it surely helps in developing better balance. Having to run on terrain with roots and rocks will also make any runner more engaged with his or her core muscles to stay stable. The quads and calves might get a bit more sore than usual, but that is normal for the first few tries. That’s fine as it gets easier eventually, especially once you have gotten more comfortable.
It Builds Mental Fortitude
Getting out of your comfort zone and exposing yourself to challenging conditions helps you build your mental foundations. The trails will not fail in presenting uncomfortable situations to you with each passing mile. Running in the great outdoors will require you to be courageous enough to navigate unfamiliar roads, to adapt to extreme weather conditions, and to fight through your fears. Trail running also teaches you ways on how to be prepared for anything that could happen, which naturally injects some confidence in you. Just stay in the present and look at where you are running. This might take some getting used to, especially coming from our usual zone outs on when running on pavements, but give it some time and you’ll get used to it!
You’ll Meet New People
Just like running on the road, there is an existing community of trail runners that are waiting to greet you once you pass by them. You will meet people from different walks of life who come from different places all looking for the same thrill, adventure you're after!
Trail running is no doubt an amazing way to experience the outdoors while doing what you love the most—running. Just don’t expect to hit your normal paces on the road when on the trails. The uneven surface, the twisting roads, and rolling terrain definitely requires a bit more energy and more focus. Ease into the experience of the wild as you please! Whether you are looking for a way to break away from the hustle and bustle of the city or just want to explore more ways to run, the trails and mountains await you with open arms. Just do put in mind that as trail runners, we have to take care of it as much as it takes care of us.
Happy trail running!
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