Trail Running :: The REAL Off-Road Experience

Betty’s recent post about running Fryman Canyon got me thinking about the joys of trail running.  When I first started running I was lucky enough to live in a town that boasts a huge number of fabulous made-for-running trails.  Now that I’m back in LA, it’s a little more challenging to hit the trails…hard, but certainly not impossible.

Trail running is as different from road running as night and day, primarily in two areas; the muscle groups that are used and the safety precautions that you’ve got to take if you’re going to run safely.

Even if you’ve been running for years, be prepared to be sore after running a trail.  Between the ups and downs in the grade and dodging rocks, boulders and stumps you’re going to use your ankles, your hips your arms, knees and glutes a lot differently.  Trail running is a GREAT workout!  Also, be prepared for the occasional fall.  It’s going to happen.  Consider the scraped knees a badge of courage.  And don’t try to break any speed records.  Running safely off road, your primary concern should be avoiding hazards and enjoying the amazing scenery that surrounds you. There’s nothing like it, and the feeling of leaping and bounding over boulders and streams make you feel like a lioness!

As a woman runner, safety is a concern.  To run trails safely, you’re going want to keep your eyes on the trail; be vigilant to avoid potential hazards like a stray root or the occasional woodland creature, (I’ve seen skunks, deer, coyotes, roadrunners, and possums.) If you run alone, always tell someone where you are running, when you’ll be back, and carry a cell phone with you.  Carry water and some energy bars or gels and if you’re so inclined…a little toilet paper.  Oh, and keep you eyes peeled for those wacky trail bikers!  Finally, don’t even THINK about wearing an iPod while you’re running trails solo.

When planning your trail run, think about the time it will take you to run your route rather than trying to accomplish distance. Keep in mind that trail running requires that you take shorter strides and take that into account when you time your run.   It’s a really good idea to plan your run thoroughly ahead of time. If you’re running in a national or state park, trail maps are usually available. Also, you’ll want to check the weather report.  In many parts of the country the weather can change rapidly, even in the summertime.  Be sure you’re prepared with a lightweight, rain resistant running jacket and a warm hat.

Finally, in the gear department, if trail running is going to be a regular part of your workout routine, you may want to invest in a good pair of trail running shoes.  Traditional running shoes aren’t going to cut it for regular trail runs, and you’re going to feel every single rock and root in traditional shoes.  Trust me, your feet are going to FEEL trail running. 

Looking for some trail running inspiration?  Visit the National Park Service site and type in “trails” in the search box or visit trails.com where you can find trails at all skill levels all over the country.  Another cool site is Rails to Trails. Check it out and hit the trail!

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