9 Things Every Aspiring Trail Runner Should Know
06.07.19 Jamie Hunter 6 Minute Read
It's Not As Hard As You Think
Okay, let me elaborate. A run is only as hard as the effort you put in. Although trails can present you with steep ascents, descents and some very uneven and technical goat tracks, a lot of trails are easy rolling fire trails connecting creeks, parklands and often spectacular views. The ground is softer underfoot so the impact with each step is more cushioned than a sidewalk. If you're just starting out, choose some easy trails close to home and keep a comfortable pace to get a feel for your new running experience.
You're Guaranteed To Make New Friends
I've personally developed long lasting friendships since being introduced to trail running. It's an amazing community and the positive influence brought into your life by fellow trail runners can only impact it in a good way. If you're less adventurous and prefer to explore trails with other people, there are plenty of running clubs across the globe that would happily welcome you to the world of trail running. Social media's a great place to start your search, there's a wealth of advice to be gained from it.
Muscles You Didn't Know You Had Will Hurt
Trying to develop a set cadence and comfortable rhythm on a trail can be difficult. Your whole body is working, switchback after switchback (a word used for a sharp turn in a trail), jumping over logs and across wet or dry creek crossings. Running downhill, you may look like a dodo trying to fly with your arms out wide flapping about to keep your balance and avoid falling. Take it easy for the first few runs so your body and legs can adjust to the new movements. Be sure to recover well afterwards with good hydration and nutrition.
You'll Never Impress Your Road Running Friends With Strava Split Times
However, you will impress them with your elevation profile! The elevation gain on a run is the amount of vertical gain you have acquired over a set distance. A 10km trail run with a 500m elevation gain can be more taxing on the body than a 10km flat city loop. Your pace per kilometre will be significantly lower but your strength will improve, and a profound sense of accomplishment will be felt knowing that you've just climbed some hills you didn't think was possible. Try to not focus on how fast or slow you ran that last kilometre, instead take in everything nature and its surroundings is offering you.
Running In The Rain Is A Great Experience, Running Through A Storm Is Dangerous
Contrary to Homer Simpson's advice, protecting yourself under the canopy of a large tree during an electrical storm is not a good idea. There have been many occasions the heavens have opened up on my running buddies and I whilst out on a run. When a storm hits, don't risk it and cut your run short. There is a chance of lightning striking and starting a fire which puts you and others at risk.
If rain is forecast, it truly is a wonderful experience running through a national forest with the rain coming down through the trees. The sounds and smell of the rain, along with the feeling of the pure clean water splashing on your skin is as refreshing as you can imagine.
Check the weather forecast before venturing out on trails and pack appropriately for predicted weather. Just be sure to have a towel and change of clothes or something warm to wear when you stop.
It's Ok To Walk The Hills
Top athletes across the world can be seen walking long hills up mountainsides during training runs and races, so don't get disheartened if you need to drop it back to a walk when the trail starts to climb. As you get more experienced, use hiking uphill to your advantage, which helps preserve energy on longer runs and races. You can also use this time to refuel with food and drink while on the move.
You Might Need Specific Trail Running Gear
Sure, you can hit the trails in your road running shoes and your gym-wear. However, out on trails, there isn't the luxury of a water bubbler every few hundred metres or pay pass to swipe your debit card for a snack at a café. Not to mention the slippery, rocky terrain and uneven ground that's hard to navigate.
Specific trail running shoes would be my first recommendation. They usually come with more stability and support than road shoes for the uneven ground, along with a more aggressive tread pattern to prevent slips and falls.
A running pack to put on your back with a bladder for fluids and pockets to hold food and supplies is recommended for longer trail runs. A couple of hours on the trails can go quite quickly, so it's important to carry electrolytes, water and food to your time on the trail is enjoyable and beneficial, not one you want to quickly forget.
It's Fun, Therapeutic And Addictive
One of my first trail runs was at night, with a headlamp and about 20 people I didn't know. We set off into the national park and ran through trails I never imagined I would, or could, run for that matter. I was at the back of the pack and was in awe of how strong and free everyone else looked on their feet. By the end, my new trail shoes were covered in mud and shins were scratched from brushing against low lying weeds and branches. My thoughts were humbled and grounded. I drove home that night exhausted with two thoughts. How did I survive and when can I do this again!
Now, I'm not saying you need to be thrown in the deep end like I was, my point is your comfort zone is guaranteed to be expanded, your mental health will improve, your needs and wants change for the better. The immediate benefits of being within untouched surrounds are noticeable and lasting.
Be Safe And Plan Your Trip
Very few of us have the luxury of kilometres of trails just outside our front door. More often than not we'll be in our car driving out of town to a remote location for a trail run. With this in mind, it's very important to plan your trip for any unexpected outcomes. The weather can change at any time, or you can simply take one or two wrong turns on a trail. When every tree and dirt track look the same, it can be a little difficult to find your way back.
Here are my must haves when out on the trails:
• A fully charged phone that has good network coverage
• Electrolytes, water and food to last (at least) twice as long as you plan on being out there
• A first Aid kit that includes a compression bandage, emergency blanket and whistle
• A GPS watch that tracks your run
• A smartphone app that shows the local trails
Lastly, be sure to let your family or friends know where you're going and when you plan on returning.
Enjoy your trail running experience and I hope to see you out there one day.
About The Author
Jamie Hunter is an avid trail runner, Australian Ninja Warrior competitor and all-around athlete. To hear more from him visit his blog or follow him on Instagram.
