Six Tips : Trail Running

Hi everyone!  I know that I've talked about my love of running on trails over and over on this blog, and I figured it's finally time to devote an entire post to the topic!  I think that trail running is one of the best ways to get a fantastic workout, clear your mind, and ease your worries.  There are a few things to be cautious of before taking your first trail run, and I hope my tips can help out!  Please share any other tips you have in the comments!

Safety First

Running on trails can be really exciting and fun, but also a bit more dangerous than running on a smooth road.  To be safe, I either take one ear bud out while running or shut off my music completely.  It can be harder to see people coming at you, or bikes approaching, so I always like to be as alert as possible.

I also bring along pepper spray (you can order small cans with a hand strap on Amazon) in case I'm approached by either a wild animal or wild person!  Finally, I always wear brighter colors so that I stand out against the natural surroundings. There can be a lot of blind corners on trails, so it's always a smart idea to be as visible as possible to others.

Plan it out

Google Maps is a great tool to find where trails are in your area (they're usually colored light grey, like in the image below).  I use the g-map pedometer to map out a route, and screenshot it on my phone so that I know where I'm headed.  I also make sure to tell Dan or someone else where I'll be running and how long I'm planning on running just in case something happens.

Take it Easy

My first trail run of the year is always shocking - I forget how much harder it is than road running.  I always make sure to run for a shorter distance than normal, and slow down my pace.  The last thing I want to do is be a few miles into a forest and be exhausted!  As with my other points, safe is always better than sorry (especially if you're new to trail running!)  After you're more comfortable on the trails, it's fine to add more time and pick up your pace.  Just make sure to start off slow, and your body will thank you.

Hydrate

Along with my pepper spray, I also bring a handheld water bottle with me.  On most roads, it's easy to find water fountains or a gas station in an emergency.  On a trail, you're usually on your own.  Since it's more physically taxing, I make sure to drink more water and like to keep a bottle on me at all times.   I drink a lot more water during the day as well to be as hydrated as possible.

Embrace the Challenge

Trail running can be physically and mentally challenging - the hills are usually steeper than on the road, and it's tough to keep running.  You will definitely be tested both mentally and physically, but running consistently will improve your fitness and mindset. I always feel so proud of myself after completing a trail run because I know that it's tough! 

Enjoy and Have Fun!

Trails are beautiful, challenging, exciting, and FUN!  I feel like a kid again when I'm running through a forest- free and happy.  It's a feeling that will make you come back again and again, so enjoy yourself! I hope that this post will inspire you to check out some trails near you, and that my tips will keep you safe.

Do you run on trails?  Anyone have any favorites that they run on?
If you stay off the trails, what's holding you back?

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