Fitness review: trail running leaves road running for dust
Trail running has a legion of followers and is a great alternative to running on concrete footpaths, roads or bikeways. And best of all, it’s free.
I’m new to trail running, but I can see why people really get into it. In my opinion, you don’t need any special skills or abilities to do it. Anyone at any fitness level can give it a go, and if you can jog, you can trail run!
Trail running is a great way to mix it up if you generally run on the pavement or road, or are a bushwalker looking to step it up. I literally stumbled into trail running. I had gone on a bushwalk and tripped going downhill. To avoid face planting, I quickened my stride to keep my balance. By default, I broke out into a jog from the momentum…and just kept going. Before I knew it, I was trail running and the rest is history.
I now alternate bushwalks and hikes with short trail runs, repeating a loop several times depending on its length and how fit I feel. When I reflect back, it seems bizarre I hadn’t become a convert sooner.
The details:
Duration: As long or as short as you like, use your body as a gauge
Style: Own pace
Cost: Free
Who’s there: Bushwalkers, other trail runners, people with dogs, mountain bikers
What to wear/bring: running shorts, moisture wicking t-shirt, hat and water bottle
What to expect:
Trail running is an activity you can do at any reserve or National Park where there is a bushwalking track that doesn’t involve rock scrambling or scaling heights. The best trails are those that are wide – like fire trails and/or service maintenance tracks so there’s plenty of room for you and others.
You will get a workout from the first stride you take! Trail running is not only great cardio, but great for building strength in your legs, core and back. Because you’re also running on an uneven surface that changes with each stride, you’ll find you have better awareness of how your body is moving in space and the energy being applied. This is known as proprioception and is great way to keep injury at bay, as well as being more in tune with your body.
This is a winning combo that I think makes trail running so addictive. Not only do you have the beautiful surrounds of nature, and the endorphin high of running, but you’re also relaxed as you let your body do what it is designed to do – and that’s to move. Take note of the following tips if you want to give it a go next weekend:
Know your track – If you’re on a proper bushwalking trail, make sure you read what level the track is graded so you know what the terrain is like. It’s a good idea to cover your track at walking pace first, so you can familiarise yourself with the route, and the following week come back and hit up as a trail run.
Take it easy – Unlike footpath or road running where your goal is beat your previous time, trail running isn’t as hung up about time. This is something I’ve had to get over – but am embracing. Because you’re running on a track littered with dirt/gravel/rocks/stones and going up and down hills, it’s going to be hard to set a personal best every time. Just enjoy the movement.
Walker/runner etiquette – Bushwalking trails are popular and the majority of people are bushwalkers, so make sure you smile, and give way. There is nothing wrong with slowing down to go past, or breaking into a walk if it’s required. You don’t want to be that engrossed in your trail running that you miss the beauty of your surrounds.
Would I recommend this fitness workout to a friend?
Absolutely, 100%. So good for body, mind and soul and running is an excellent overall fat burner. If you want to step it up, there are plenty of trail running events hosted throughout the year and cover courses ranging from 5km to 40km+.
What I liked: outdoors, sunshine, nature, feeling my body move as it’s supposed to
What I didn’t like: carrying a water bottle on me – I’d suggest investing in a hydration pack like a Camelbak or similar so you can be hands free. There’s plenty on the market at a range of prices.
What do I rate this fitness workout out of five?
Fitness: 5/5 Strength and toning: 5/5
Weight loss: 5/5 Wellness (mind, body, soul connection): 5/5
What would I listen to as I trail run?
The Middle – Zedd & Grey feat. Maren
Keen to try a trail run soon? Let me know in the comments box below!
Don’t forget to get in touch if there’s a workout you’d like me to review. Just post it on my Facebook page or email hello@askthatfitgirl.com. I’m also finally on Instagram. Feel free to follow me now.
Until next time,
Maryanne K
