Have you ever run on trails? Do you even know what trail running is?
Or do you know why trail running could be a massive benefit to your road running?
Well, stick around as I'm going to be answering all of these questions in today's video.
Plus, there will be a quick fire trail running Q and A at the end.
So keep watching and let's get stuck in. Trail running, put simply, is running on any surface that isn't paid.
Now we're in the mountains, which is a slightly more extreme example, but it doesn't have to be that way.
It could be in the woods, in the forest, in your local country park, basically just anywhere that isn't on a road.
There are so many benefits to trail running, but don't just take our word for it. Here's why.
Proprioception plays a key role in trail running. What this means is because of the sometimes uneven and unstable
terrain, I want an extreme example here. Your body is constantly trying to
keep itself stable and steady and so improving your proprioception,
also referred to as kinesthesia, this is basically your body's ability to sense movement, action and location.
So by improving this, it can help to strengthen your joints and also help improve your reaction speed.
And all of this can be done just by heading out onto the trail. I'm going to put you down because this bit is intense.
Trail running definitely requires a lot of attention because there isn't always a
clear path. But what this is great for though, is improving ankle strength, flexibility,
balance, and it's also good for your core. But remember though, trail running can be difficult.
So look out for tree roots, rocks or any holes that could take you by surprise.
So how else can trail running help your running?
Well, if you're combining trails and hills, then there are lots of pluses.
For example, running uphill on the trails can help with glute strength which builds power and speed.
And then when you come back down, like I am now, this is great for building your quad
strength as they act as your brakes on your way down.
So if you're an experienced road runner looking for a challenge, then why not combine your trails with your hill reps workouts?
And if you're stuck for a hill workout rep session to do, we've got one that you can give a go on The Running Channel.
We've got a video all about it, so go check it out.
On the flip side, trail running can also be a great recovery tool.
Running on a soft surface like grass is much easier on your joints than running on a hard tarmac.
So why not head to the trails for your next recovery run?
Quick pause this video and comment down below where your nearest trails are.
Or if you don't know, have a quick Google. Trail running can give you so much more than physical benefits.
The biggest difference you're probably going to find is to do with your watch.
You won't be able to hit the same pace that you can on the road, so instead put the watch away,
enjoy the beautiful views and feel connected to nature.
Lots of people say how trail running is a workout for your brain as well as you're having to navigate different paths and routes,
and also navigate the sometimes tricky and technical terrain.
But whilst it's also a workout for your brain, it's also a chance to feel connected to nature and feel a sense of achievement in a different way.
Like the fact I just climbed this hill.
Trail running is like a mini adventure. You can find new spots to run around and explore new routes.
Also, the views are pretty good too, although usually the better the view, the bigger the hill.
And this is no exception to that. I'm halfway up, look at where I could go.
Let's carry on up. Trail running is also a time to embrace your inner child, have fun, explore, get lucky and muddy.
And you never know, you might surprise yourself with how much fun you have.
Hopefully we persuaded you to hit the trails or carry on your love affair with the trails, but you might have some questions about trail running.
Well, we asked you around Channel Community what your questions about trail running were, and here are some quick fire answers.
Do I need new shoes? Well, short answer probably not, no.
If you're running on really technical terrain or in wet and muddy conditions, then you might want to invest in a pair of trail shoes.
But for most easy trail runs, then your road shoes will probably be fine. Although maybe leave your carbon plated shoes at home.
How do I find a route? Now, you might want to go trail running, but you might not know where the best routes near to you are.
But don't worry, there are lots of tools out there to help.
The simplest way is probably just to get up a map of your local area and zoom out until you can see all the green spaces.
But if you want to find the best places to go trail running, then there are apps that can help you.
Garmin Connect has a popularity map so you can see where everyone else is going and spot the best routes.
And Strava also has a similar feature. Do I need any other specific kit?
Well, if you're just heading out on a short trail run in your local area, then the answer is probably no.
But the further and more extreme trail runs that you do, the more kit you might find yourself needing.
If you need to take water out with you, then you might need a hydration vest.
And this can also carry lots of other things like head torches, extra fuel, water, your phone, and any other kit that you might need.
Also be aware that if you enter some trail races, then there might be an essential kit list. So definitely check this before you turn up.
How do I stay safe now? Trail running is beautiful but it sometimes can feel a little bit intimidating.
There might be less people around and so it might feel a little bit daunting.
But don't worry, there are plenty of precautions that you can take to feel safe.
There are lots of apps out there that can help like Garmin Live Track or Strava Beacon to let people know where you are.
And it's also worth having your phone on you so that you can call an emergency contact in case of anything happening.
You might also want to take out with you some extra layers and food in case you get lost,
as well as a map and compass as a backup in terms of safety as well.
Anything else to be aware of? Well, definitely respect the environment that you're in.
The trails are beautiful, but in order to stay beautiful, then they need to be well looked after, so don't litter.
And anything that you take out with you, make sure you take home with you as well.
So have we persuaded you to hit the trails or are you a trail lover already, and this is just a video to indulge in your favourite hobby?
Comment down below a mountain if you're in love with the trails,
or a road if the road still has your heart. And we'll see you next time on The Running Channel.
I'm off to hit the trails.