The one thing that surprised me about switching to trail running from road running is that walking is allowed! Lol. Steep hills can be great training but can also be a walk break. As Sarah and Anna have demonstrated, power-hiking or even walking hills on long routes can still be a great workout (and might be a necessity). Also: forget running to pace.
it's a great break from pavements, and if you pick a leafy route you get some shade too! Top tip for safety. Using 'what 3 words' to help with your specific locations can help anyone trying to find you if you need assistance.
I live and work at 2'200m in Banff National Park, Canada. I've been trail running all summer in preparation for my half-marathon in Glasgow in October! Trail running keeps you thinking and on your toes (usually)! 😊
🏞I generally love the trails because anything that is not a trail around where I live is a road that has cars driving on it and a main part of why I enjoy running is to get away from pollution and traffic and into nature. I do like a road run every now and then though, because it really lets you get some speed in which is also fun on occasion.
I love trails my main reason for running is to get outside in nature and help my mental health. The PBs and distances are just a fun side effect so trails really are where it's at and always feel like a mini adventure!
@@runningchannel not yet! I haven't done a race over 10k yet. I'm am very much just a for fun runner. But since joining a running club I am starting to get the bug for more races. This year I will do my first Half on mainly road next year will be a full! After that I might do some trail marathons but for now I just like the exploration while running solo.
@@runningchannel love the channel by the way. Its really nice seeing the team grow as runners and having us average runners represented along side the amazing pros. I find a lot of inspiration from people who are a few years ahead of me on journey it's not always easy to relate to the superhero runners! That said the tips on training from them is invaluable really love the team trying to do an Olympic or ultras training schedule. Sorry you had to do that for our entertainment 🤣
I was a townie before moving to the peak district now I do probably 50/50 trails and road and I love it, it's improved my running overall and helped me enjoy running again.
I conduct most of my running through canal tow paths, woods and hilly trails.. when I hit a perfectly smooth and flat concrete road my technique feels fluid and pace increases effortlessly! (Hoping all these nasty routes will help for Berlin 😂)
I ran my first ever one after building up my fitness from collapsing after 0.4km 😂 to 5km and did a 10km trail run this week with a local group. I loved it I'm going every week now
I usually run on a mixed surface since there's a nearby lake, that has trails going around it, roughly 2.5k away from my place, but up until there it's mostly road...so every run that's over 5k for me will involve a loop around the lake :)
I am definitely a road runner but I do enjoy a run on the trails. I have the best of both worlds as do runs on my own on the roads and club runs on the trails and I live that they compliment each other.
Due to shin splints I had to run in the woods. I never go up or down hill running, but I was able to keep running and healing at the same time. And it is less warm in the woods, so I could simply run my runs during the heatwave!
After running the Northumbria Coastal last month I can see me doing more trails next year. Something that wasn't mentioned, and that would recommend, is having what3words on your phone. Its useful if you were to get into any difficulties, especially if the weather is bad.
Because it gives your joints a break, allows you to run much further. Forces you to run with more coordination and control, as you're forced to use muscles you normal wouldn't on a road run. Better stamina, as you'll often find yourself having to run up one side, then back down the other. Plus seeing such stunning views, is fantastic for your happiness. I did the rat, and running with a pack of runners in the dead of night was an amazing, exhilarating feeling that you have to do at least once in your life. Plus ultras are a lot more social, and you get to eat and drink on the hills👍 There's a reason why Cornwall is considered the mecca of ultra running, come down on holiday and give it a go, it's not as scary as you might think.
Love running on trails. 100% agree that trails plus hills will definitely boost one's road running ability. I have my favourite trails-hills-trails route to go to. It's a 5km trail -> 3 x 300 hill -> 5km trail circuit. Brutal, but it builds up the lower limbs strength. This in turn helps so much with my road run.
A very good trailrunner Nienke Brinkman just won bronse for our country at the EC marathon at her third marathon. She will keep on doing trails next to her other training. We don't have mountains in our region, but do have lots of dunes with small hills combined with forest, I use them on a regular basis for the benefits mentioned in this video.
Trail running is my favorite. Since I discovered how fantastic it is, 2 years ago, I have hardly enjoyed road running as much as I used to. But I do both. My joints and ankles are happiest on trails. During races I’m not even trying very hard for a good time because I’m too distracted with nature and take lots of photos (also a great excuse to catch my breath). Just enjoying the moment 😊
Some cool ‘rail trails’ in my region. That is, trails where there used to be a rail line from times gone by. I’m a fan of Rokeby to Neerim South as well as Mirboo North to Boolarra
Love trail running I have ran the sandstone trail race for the last 8 years except covid year and love it every year. The people are just so friendly and getting wet and muddy adds to the fun
Trail running isn't clever or grown up 😀! For instance? You ask... Midnight Marathon from 9pm last Saturday (13th August) South Downs Way. Why did I do it? Cos it was suggested and *it seemed a good idea at the time* with 2 running chums we completed it in 5hrs 40mins (ish) - as an idea of its difficulty we finished about *mid table* plus there were about 10 DNF out of 180 starters + it was still *warm* several lads were shirtless! * I was completely *spent* with 7 or so miles to go. You'll know when you are *squeezed dry* when it is easier to run (waddle) than walk. I just wanted to lie down: I did get the chance when I fell over (for the second time) with 3 miles or so to go: 2am, middle-aged man, sitting in a South Downs car park, blood running down his left leg and left arm: all pride gone, having to ask 2 folks to help me up. Felt important at the finish when 2 paramedics cleaned up the (minor) scrapes! Other examples? Managed 51miles of a 100k event 6 weeks ago. Took 2.5 hrs on a half 2 months ago etc etc. I shall do another one of course! Nice 'n' Steady... long runs with a purpose. Great *time on feet* + *mind over matter* etc I love asphalt ❤️
I am lucky because there is so many trails around where I live. There is the Spring Mountain and White Rock Conservation Park, Karawatha Forest, Mount Cot-tha (not really a mountain, but this is Australia, so they probably think it is :D ), and then not much further away there is even more. Weekend just gone I was helping run a trail event at Lake Manchester, the weekend before I was helping run a checkpoint for the Scenic Rim Ultra, some lovely and very difficult trails in the Scenic Rim area in Queensland. The Brisbane Trail Ultra goes through a lot of the trails that I run on as well. And so does the Guzzler. As I said, we are very lucky here.
I run road ( not very well ) and cycle road and off road . I’m going to try some trail running . The views and peace of being on a trail on my bike is great so i look forward to the same when running . Might even see more at the slower pace👍
I'm lucky, I live in the mountains in New York. I have many trails with a variety of incline and ttail surface. I love getting out on trail runs for all of the "behind the scenes" benefits that road running doesn't give me. Great video!
I did my first and only two half marathons on the road in September 2019 and March 2020 and then switched to mainly trailrunning. I enrolled in a training program shortly after that 2nd half marathon to be able to run a 52km trail September of 2020. I basically skipped the full marathon all together and loved it. The focus shifted from mostly speed and PR's to running longer distances without time goals on the trails. I do have some road training runs for the occasional fast run but I always try to work in some off road portions whenever I can. The first thing I noticed was how tolerant my ankles became since then. The occasional misstep is now mostly shake it off and continue without any problems.
I basically live on Tiger Mountain, which part of the Issaquah Alps here in Washington State. One of the best places to trail run without having to trek into the Cascade Mountains! If you want punchy climbs (like 609m in 1.5mi) and quad-busting technical descents (640m in 2 miles, anyone?), Tiger Mountain has it! Why spend hours on the road when you can spend hours in the woods?? I switched to trail running in 2022 because I was done chasing PRs and I wanted to go for distance. My first 100 miler is August 27th and I. AM. READY.
I'm now strictly a trail runner. I couldn't stand being in the roads, worrying about whether the drivers were paying attention, getting catcalled, and the boringness of it. I've got several lovely little mountain trails and a trail trail within a 10 minute drive. Where I live, there's either pancake flat and groomed, or rocky rooty steep hills. I would love some gently rolling less technical routes to switch it up!
I love trail running! I’m super lucky that there is a large park/forest about 5 minutes from my front door. It is really fun to explore and spend time in nature :)
Perfectly timed video, we're about to head on vacation where we'll be spending a week up in the Canadian Rockies. This city boy is hoping to get some trail running and hiking in.
Love trails, it definitely amplified my love of running. The views and the new places trail running has taken me has been the best, definitely prefer trails to road. And because trail races start in different batches, you can run with like-minded and people with the same pace as yourself. I also find trail a bit more social, especially when you all walking up those steep hills! Lol! Would definitely recommend hitting the trails.
I have Horseshoe Pass as I live in Llangollen. Great for the hills and the views are fantastic. If I want to clear my head this is the run for me as you return refreshed ready to take on the next challenge 🏃
I'm definitely a road runner but did a trail run back in April and loved it. I found there are several trails near where I live but none of them have any hills (live in Florida, USA). I plan to do at least one trail run each week.
I vacation/holiday in the mountains often, and have access to some nice trails while there. I always come home stronger after running on these brutes (the end of my standard route is up a 10.5% hill). I don't worry about pace and just run by RPE. The uneven terrain is also good for developing the muscles that keep you stable on your feet, which don't get much of a workout on a consistent, flat surface.
I have a local route for training that is just 10k but has section towards the end that's in the local county park where I can add loops for distance. So every run I do when training for events incorporates at least 3-4k of offroad - uneven gravel/grass. Not so much on the inclines sadly, but still really helpful for all the other reasons you talk about Sarah. It really makes a difference to my running on the road.
Living in Japan and love running the trails, having ups and downs, twists and turns and the ever changing scenery that comes with it. Though Japan being a mountainous country, it would be nice to try a less steep elevation run so now and then 😅
I try to run most of my runs on trails, it’s so much more enjoyable. I’m also into orienteering which I find much more fun than just running on marked trails. You really get to experience nature up close. Would be cool if you guys would try it out and maybe make a video about it.
I've been running on trails for the past few months as my main training activity. I am preparing for my first ever half-marathon this October. I must say I enjoy it very much. Each time I meet either a partridge or a hare, as the trails are mainly between large agriculture fields. It's very different compared to city runs, but I love it so far.
Thank you for all the info that you all share. I am a new runner and live in the west of the Netherlands. So I am a bit jealous about the nature that I see in the video. We hardly have that overhere.
i am more of a trail runner then road, so much better on the legs and feet, plus it keeps your mind really busy, as you have to concentrate more on where you are stepping, , but doing both is good too, just so many opportunities there now, plus getting dirty in the mud at times is tonnes of fun
My nearest trails start 2 minutes from my house. There are several commons and lots of footpaths within a mile of home, and its about 5 miles to proper hills.
Hello Sarah and the running channel team. Very interesting video about trails. I've just participated to the Meribel trail 10k in the French Alps. it was my third time and i've got a PB. Like you said Sarah it's good for the training to switch between road, trail, wood, hill, ...etc and often in trail the landscapes are amazing. Go on a trail can be a good training for the next race on the road. Thank you for the video and have a nice next trail ;)
I'm lucky enough to have quite a few different trail & hill routes not too far from me here in Northwest England. I actually started running in the hills as a progression from walking the hills & have only really started running on tarmac more recently. Also recently started heading out with a local fell running club which is really good fun.
I usually run on a mixed surface as I run along the canal towpath which is uneven and isn't hard surfaced like some towpaths. My route also has me running over wooden lock bridges, through woodland and along a public bridleway past farmers fields. If timed correctly the descent to the canal has you running towards the sunrise
This year I've been doing a lot of Parkrun tourism and many of them have been grassy/trail like, unlike my usual event. I've really enjoyed them with Banstead Woods and Aldenham Country Park standout trail events. I'm a convert 😀
Ran my first trail half marathon a couple weeks ago. Fell 3 times. Scrapped my knee and elbow real bad and busted my nose open. Crossed the finish line with blood everywhere lol. And I signed up for another. Trails really vary in difficulty. A lot of the trails where I'm at don't have gravel so they become pretty rooty over time. All it takes is a couple seconds of distraction and yer flying face first.
I enjoy trail running and am trying to get in more practice at it, since I mostly run on roads. My first ever trail run was a 10 mile race (really easing into it there), and I tripped and fell 3 times. Banged up my knee a bit but nothing too bad. I live in Texas where it's pretty flat, but the woods are nice.
I often do trails and because I'm close to the Cotswolds there are plenty of routes available. Not Far from the Forest of Dean or the Malvern Hills. 👍🏻
Interesting topic! I’m pretty new to running… little more than one year or so…I’ve been into hiking and backpacking before… So the step to trail running isn’t so big. Trail running might be the running style for me. Tanks for the video.
I mix it up , lucky enough in north Wales everywhere is hilly af and I can access hills without going off trail! Wepre Parkrun is one of the hardest Saturday patkruns by average finishing time, Im doing chester marathon October then the Glasgow gb ultras 56 miler the week after 💀💀💀💀
I can start a trail from the vacant plot of land next to my house. Between where that finishes and the national park trails there is about 500m of road but I can run on front lawns if I want to avoid road. The trails have been very boggy with extra rain this year but I need to get back out there to prepare for ultras.
@@runningchannel For me, what I lose from it in the winter months, I gain so much more in the Summer months ☀️ Running on a Beautiful course, Surrounded by vineyards! And Rolling Hills.
I have Sydney Blackmores' 1/2 marathon coming up 19/9 and 20km (+450 m elevation) Bare Creek Trail Run on 6/11.... I know which is the one that's making think "whoops... what was I thinking when I signed up"
Lucky enough to be able to run on the goldfield trails just down the road from Ballarat. The most extreme trails I've done are at Larapinta near Alice Springs! Definitely feel stronger going in to the Melbourne Marathon
Doing mine the other way around Sydney 1/2 and then 2 months later the 20Km Bare Creek Trail in Sydney's Garigal NP... Trying to convince myself the 1/2 is training for the trail...
I do all my long runs in the forest. It’s great fun and the people you meet are all generally friendly people. With lots of “mornings” being said, normally when I’m going uphill 😂 Yes Beware of tree roots there is a particular one that has caught out a few people including me (twice) 😂
Love trails but the area around me is very flat even the trails so I always have a look to see if there's anywhere fun to run elsewhere in the Country when I get to travel. I do want to upgrade from my Garmin 245 to something with navigation as I have to be really careful with route planning and be a lot safer and less adventurous than I would like.
2 года назад
Trails all the way! Actually off trail is even better ☺️
Very timely- finished my third road marathon on the Sunshine Coast (Australia) at the weekend in a PB (3hrs38mins) and am now looking to give my knees a rest and try something different so looking for suggestions for trails around the Northern Beaches of Sydney please (preferably flat!)? Love the channel- please keep up the great content.
Don't got no natural trails in my city (Dubai). I can try beach run for a change from my normal road running but its not the same as trail running of course.
🏔⛰ Just a little indulging for me. I like the fact that it's irregular and you sometimes (most often) have to walk hills and so I don't get bogged down by stats and speed because it's not regular. I sometimes take a picnic in my pack and just go out for a day of run walking. I run when I want, walk what I want. So much to see around as well. I live in the Chilterns.
Last time I went trail running, I turned my ankle on some leaf-covered roots, and ended up hobbling home. Six weeks later, I could run again, but slowly...
I also found some leaf-covered roots and broke my foot 2 times in the pandemic. I'm currently recovering from the second injury and hope that I can get back to my running routine around Christmas
I'm lucky to have a trail about .5 miles from my house. I usually only run on the gentler parts of the trail. I get a little beat up on the stuff with lots of rocks and roots.
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I much prefer trail running to road running. You just can't beat getting away from the traffic and enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
The one thing that surprised me about switching to trail running from road running is that walking is allowed! Lol. Steep hills can be great training but can also be a walk break. As Sarah and Anna have demonstrated, power-hiking or even walking hills on long routes can still be a great workout (and might be a necessity). Also: forget running to pace.
Hahaha that is a huge plus of trail running! Walking is 100% allowed 😃 What ever makes you enjoy the run more
@@runningchannel walking is allowed even on the roads. Just learn to ignore people, who arent accualy watching and judging you :)
@@t0maz.m although walking is a little more like walking than running.
it's a great break from pavements, and if you pick a leafy route you get some shade too! Top tip for safety. Using 'what 3 words' to help with your specific locations can help anyone trying to find you if you need assistance.
Exactly Louis! Do you live near some nice trail routes?
@@runningchannel I live north of sheffield next to the Transpennine Trail, really spoilt for choice here!
I live and work at 2'200m in Banff National Park, Canada. I've been trail running all summer in preparation for my half-marathon in Glasgow in October! Trail running keeps you thinking and on your toes (usually)! 😊
🏞I generally love the trails because anything that is not a trail around where I live is a road that has cars driving on it and a main part of why I enjoy running is to get away from pollution and traffic and into nature. I do like a road run every now and then though, because it really lets you get some speed in which is also fun on occasion.
I love trails my main reason for running is to get outside in nature and help my mental health. The PBs and distances are just a fun side effect so trails really are where it's at and always feel like a mini adventure!
Couldn't agree more Steve! Have you done any trail marathons?
@@runningchannel not yet! I haven't done a race over 10k yet. I'm am very much just a for fun runner. But since joining a running club I am starting to get the bug for more races. This year I will do my first Half on mainly road next year will be a full! After that I might do some trail marathons but for now I just like the exploration while running solo.
@@runningchannel love the channel by the way. Its really nice seeing the team grow as runners and having us average runners represented along side the amazing pros. I find a lot of inspiration from people who are a few years ahead of me on journey it's not always easy to relate to the superhero runners! That said the tips on training from them is invaluable really love the team trying to do an Olympic or ultras training schedule. Sorry you had to do that for our entertainment 🤣
I was a townie before moving to the peak district now I do probably 50/50 trails and road and I love it, it's improved my running overall and helped me enjoy running again.
I conduct most of my running through canal tow paths, woods and hilly trails.. when I hit a perfectly smooth and flat concrete road my technique feels fluid and pace increases effortlessly! (Hoping all these nasty routes will help for Berlin 😂)
I ran my first ever one after building up my fitness from collapsing after 0.4km 😂 to 5km and did a 10km trail run this week with a local group. I loved it I'm going every week now
I usually run on a mixed surface since there's a nearby lake, that has trails going around it, roughly 2.5k away from my place, but up until there it's mostly road...so every run that's over 5k for me will involve a loop around the lake :)
I am definitely a road runner but I do enjoy a run on the trails. I have the best of both worlds as do runs on my own on the roads and club runs on the trails and I live that they compliment each other.
Due to shin splints I had to run in the woods. I never go up or down hill running, but I was able to keep running and healing at the same time. And it is less warm in the woods, so I could simply run my runs during the heatwave!
I love running trails in my Vibram Fivefingers. to feel the surface and almost "grip" it with your toes. Like being a child again :)
Trail running is fab I've done 3 trail marathons it's hard work but so much fun
After running the Northumbria Coastal last month I can see me doing more trails next year. Something that wasn't mentioned, and that would recommend, is having what3words on your phone. Its useful if you were to get into any difficulties, especially if the weather is bad.
Thank you for the great safety suggestion Al! We'll look into it 😊 Staying safe on the trails is so important
Love running trails. Try to every Saturday
Because it gives your joints a break, allows you to run much further. Forces you to run with more coordination and control, as you're forced to use muscles you normal wouldn't on a road run.
Better stamina, as you'll often find yourself having to run up one side, then back down the other.
Plus seeing such stunning views, is fantastic for your happiness.
I did the rat, and running with a pack of runners in the dead of night was an amazing, exhilarating feeling that you have to do at least once in your life.
Plus ultras are a lot more social, and you get to eat and drink on the hills👍
There's a reason why Cornwall is considered the mecca of ultra running, come down on holiday and give it a go, it's not as scary as you might think.
Love running on trails. 100% agree that trails plus hills will definitely boost one's road running ability.
I have my favourite trails-hills-trails route to go to. It's a 5km trail -> 3 x 300 hill -> 5km trail circuit. Brutal, but it builds up the lower limbs strength. This in turn helps so much with my road run.
Here in Colorado you are sure to become faster when you hear those mountain lion roars while on trail.
A very good trailrunner Nienke Brinkman just won bronse for our country at the EC marathon at her third marathon.
She will keep on doing trails next to her other training.
We don't have mountains in our region, but do have lots of dunes with small hills combined with forest, I use them on a regular basis for the benefits mentioned in this video.
Love our local trails here in NC! I play a game I affectionately call "Snake or stick, freckle or tick" when I run them.
Trail running is my favorite. Since I discovered how fantastic it is, 2 years ago, I have hardly enjoyed road running as much as I used to. But I do both. My joints and ankles are happiest on trails. During races I’m not even trying very hard for a good time because I’m too distracted with nature and take lots of photos (also a great excuse to catch my breath). Just enjoying the moment 😊
I run in local parks here in Salem, Oregon. I recommend Silver Falls State Park - 7 waterfalls in about 6 miles.
Some cool ‘rail trails’ in my region. That is, trails where there used to be a rail line from times gone by. I’m a fan of Rokeby to Neerim South as well as Mirboo North to Boolarra
Love trail running! Great reasons for trail running here, awesome!
Love trail running I have ran the sandstone trail race for the last 8 years except covid year and love it every year. The people are just so friendly and getting wet and muddy adds to the fun
Trail running isn't clever or grown up 😀! For instance? You ask...
Midnight Marathon from 9pm last Saturday (13th August) South Downs Way. Why did I do it? Cos it was suggested and *it seemed a good idea at the time* with 2 running chums we completed it in 5hrs 40mins (ish) - as an idea of its difficulty we finished about *mid table* plus there were about 10 DNF out of 180 starters + it was still *warm* several lads were shirtless! * I was completely *spent* with 7 or so miles to go. You'll know when you are *squeezed dry* when it is easier to run (waddle) than walk. I just wanted to lie down: I did get the chance when I fell over (for the second time) with 3 miles or so to go: 2am, middle-aged man, sitting in a South Downs car park, blood running down his left leg and left arm: all pride gone, having to ask 2 folks to help me up. Felt important at the finish when 2 paramedics cleaned up the (minor) scrapes!
Other examples? Managed 51miles of a 100k event 6 weeks ago. Took 2.5 hrs on a half 2 months ago etc etc.
I shall do another one of course! Nice 'n' Steady... long runs with a purpose. Great *time on feet* + *mind over matter* etc
I love asphalt ❤️
Love running on the trails! Love finding new places to explore, definitely keeps my runs more interesting! 😊
I am lucky because there is so many trails around where I live. There is the Spring Mountain and White Rock Conservation Park, Karawatha Forest, Mount Cot-tha (not really a mountain, but this is Australia, so they probably think it is :D ), and then not much further away there is even more. Weekend just gone I was helping run a trail event at Lake Manchester, the weekend before I was helping run a checkpoint for the Scenic Rim Ultra, some lovely and very difficult trails in the Scenic Rim area in Queensland. The Brisbane Trail Ultra goes through a lot of the trails that I run on as well. And so does the Guzzler. As I said, we are very lucky here.
Have started trail running with a group, also have a trail race on the schedule.
I run road ( not very well ) and cycle road and off road . I’m going to try some trail running . The views and peace of being on a trail on my bike is great so i look forward to the same when running . Might even see more at the slower pace👍
I like Lords Wood in Southampton, I always do trails in preference to roads as it is so relaxing, and absolutely no car fumes
I'm lucky, I live in the mountains in New York. I have many trails with a variety of incline and ttail surface. I love getting out on trail runs for all of the "behind the scenes" benefits that road running doesn't give me. Great video!
A great intro to trail running. I just love the adventure of it all :) 🗻🌳🏃
Going to Elgin, north of Scotland so will be doing some around Elgin & Lossiemouth
I did my first and only two half marathons on the road in September 2019 and March 2020 and then switched to mainly trailrunning.
I enrolled in a training program shortly after that 2nd half marathon to be able to run a 52km trail September of 2020. I basically skipped the full marathon all together and loved it.
The focus shifted from mostly speed and PR's to running longer distances without time goals on the trails. I do have some road training runs for the occasional fast run but I always try to work in some off road portions whenever I can.
The first thing I noticed was how tolerant my ankles became since then. The occasional misstep is now mostly shake it off and continue without any problems.
I basically live on Tiger Mountain, which part of the Issaquah Alps here in Washington State. One of the best places to trail run without having to trek into the Cascade Mountains!
If you want punchy climbs (like 609m in 1.5mi) and quad-busting technical descents (640m in 2 miles, anyone?), Tiger Mountain has it!
Why spend hours on the road when you can spend hours in the woods??
I switched to trail running in 2022 because I was done chasing PRs and I wanted to go for distance.
My first 100 miler is August 27th and I. AM. READY.
I'm now strictly a trail runner. I couldn't stand being in the roads, worrying about whether the drivers were paying attention, getting catcalled, and the boringness of it. I've got several lovely little mountain trails and a trail trail within a 10 minute drive. Where I live, there's either pancake flat and groomed, or rocky rooty steep hills. I would love some gently rolling less technical routes to switch it up!
I love trail running! I’m super lucky that there is a large park/forest about 5 minutes from my front door. It is really fun to explore and spend time in nature :)
I love trail running :) I gives more challenges than road running.
I love trail runs now that I have been introduced to them and have also found I love night time trail running with a headlamp 😀
Road in the winter 🥶, trails in the summer 🥵 is my way to go 🏃
It's m'y philosophy, road and trail ! Last year I broke my PB on 10k during a trail training plan. Also, so good for your mental health
Amazing! Which do you prefer?
Perfectly timed video, we're about to head on vacation where we'll be spending a week up in the Canadian Rockies. This city boy is hoping to get some trail running and hiking in.
Love trails, it definitely amplified my love of running. The views and the new places trail running has taken me has been the best, definitely prefer trails to road. And because trail races start in different batches, you can run with like-minded and people with the same pace as yourself. I also find trail a bit more social, especially when you all walking up those steep hills! Lol! Would definitely recommend hitting the trails.
I have Horseshoe Pass as I live in Llangollen. Great for the hills and the views are fantastic. If I want to clear my head this is the run for me as you return refreshed ready to take on the next challenge 🏃
I'm definitely a road runner but did a trail run back in April and loved it. I found there are several trails near where I live but none of them have any hills (live in Florida, USA). I plan to do at least one trail run each week.
I vacation/holiday in the mountains often, and have access to some nice trails while there. I always come home stronger after running on these brutes (the end of my standard route is up a 10.5% hill). I don't worry about pace and just run by RPE. The uneven terrain is also good for developing the muscles that keep you stable on your feet, which don't get much of a workout on a consistent, flat surface.
I've got a bunch of trail routes just outside my front door 🥰
Great way to end my day a TRC video.
Thanks Marc! 😀 What's your favourite video we've done?
@@runningchannel 🤔🤔🤔 thats like Sophies choice. I'd have to say Anna Vs Rick challenge series.
I have a local route for training that is just 10k but has section towards the end that's in the local county park where I can add loops for distance. So every run I do when training for events incorporates at least 3-4k of offroad - uneven gravel/grass. Not so much on the inclines sadly, but still really helpful for all the other reasons you talk about Sarah. It really makes a difference to my running on the road.
Living in Japan and love running the trails, having ups and downs, twists and turns and the ever changing scenery that comes with it. Though Japan being a mountainous country, it would be nice to try a less steep elevation run so now and then 😅
I try to run most of my runs on trails, it’s so much more enjoyable. I’m also into orienteering which I find much more fun than just running on marked trails. You really get to experience nature up close. Would be cool if you guys would try it out and maybe make a video about it.
Yes! This! I to do orienteering! It's fantastic!
I've been running on trails for the past few months as my main training activity. I am preparing for my first ever half-marathon this October. I must say I enjoy it very much. Each time I meet either a partridge or a hare, as the trails are mainly between large agriculture fields. It's very different compared to city runs, but I love it so far.
Thank you for all the info that you all share. I am a new runner and live in the west of the Netherlands. So I am a bit jealous about the nature that I see in the video. We hardly have that overhere.
i am more of a trail runner then road, so much better on the legs and feet, plus it keeps your mind really busy, as you have to concentrate more on where you are stepping, , but doing both is good too, just so many opportunities there now, plus getting dirty in the mud at times is tonnes of fun
My nearest trails start 2 minutes from my house. There are several commons and lots of footpaths within a mile of home, and its about 5 miles to proper hills.
Hello Sarah and the running channel team. Very interesting video about trails. I've just participated to the Meribel trail 10k in the French Alps. it was my third time and i've got a PB. Like you said Sarah it's good for the training to switch between road, trail, wood, hill, ...etc and often in trail the landscapes are amazing.
Go on a trail can be a good training for the next race on the road.
Thank you for the video and have a nice next trail ;)
I'm lucky enough to have quite a few different trail & hill routes not too far from me here in Northwest England. I actually started running in the hills as a progression from walking the hills & have only really started running on tarmac more recently. Also recently started heading out with a local fell running club which is really good fun.
I usually run on a mixed surface as I run along the canal towpath which is uneven and isn't hard surfaced like some towpaths. My route also has me running over wooden lock bridges, through woodland and along a public bridleway past farmers fields. If timed correctly the descent to the canal has you running towards the sunrise
About to head out for a quick trail run but might extend it after watching this 💯
This year I've been doing a lot of Parkrun tourism and many of them have been grassy/trail like, unlike my usual event. I've really enjoyed them with Banstead Woods and Aldenham Country Park standout trail events. I'm a convert 😀
Ran my first trail half marathon a couple weeks ago. Fell 3 times. Scrapped my knee and elbow real bad and busted my nose open. Crossed the finish line with blood everywhere lol. And I signed up for another.
Trails really vary in difficulty. A lot of the trails where I'm at don't have gravel so they become pretty rooty over time. All it takes is a couple seconds of distraction and yer flying face first.
I love the trails everything I go. I still do mostly road as I can do that from my front door. Any trail running and I need to hop in the car
Hahaha....my closest trail in out my front door! I love them......but it was an adjustment after a city life
Amazing! 😁 Where did you move from?
@@runningchannel I’m in the Bella Coola Valley
I enjoy trail running and am trying to get in more practice at it, since I mostly run on roads. My first ever trail run was a 10 mile race (really easing into it there), and I tripped and fell 3 times. Banged up my knee a bit but nothing too bad. I live in Texas where it's pretty flat, but the woods are nice.
I often do trails and because I'm close to the Cotswolds there are plenty of routes available. Not Far from the Forest of Dean or the Malvern Hills. 👍🏻
Trails are lovely near here (Zürich). Forests are great, but the hills are hard.
Interesting topic!
I’m pretty new to running… little more than one year or so…I’ve been into hiking and backpacking before… So the step to trail running isn’t so big. Trail running might be the running style for me.
Tanks for the video.
Give it a go Marcus! You get to enjoy the same scenery you would if you were hiking 💪😁
🏔I’m in Edinburgh so Holyrood Park and the Pentlands are great and close.
I run only trails last 4 week .. temperatures have been over 30°C lately
"You wont be able to hit the same paces you can on the road"... Challenge accepted 😁😁😁😁
Hahaha love a challenge! Let us know how you get on?
I mix it up , lucky enough in north Wales everywhere is hilly af and I can access hills without going off trail! Wepre Parkrun is one of the hardest Saturday patkruns by average finishing time, Im doing chester marathon October then the Glasgow gb ultras 56 miler the week after 💀💀💀💀
I can start a trail from the vacant plot of land next to my house. Between where that finishes and the national park trails there is about 500m of road but I can run on front lawns if I want to avoid road. The trails have been very boggy with extra rain this year but I need to get back out there to prepare for ultras.
My local Parkrun 🌳 during the winter 💦 seems to fit in as a Trial Run.
The ground is uneven, so this causes the Rain to run developing into Mud.
Ah that's frustrating if it gets cancelled due to mud, would you rather it was more of a road parkrun?
@@runningchannel
For me, what I lose from it in the winter months, I gain so much more in the Summer months ☀️ Running on a Beautiful course, Surrounded by vineyards! And Rolling Hills.
I have Sydney Blackmores' 1/2 marathon coming up 19/9 and 20km (+450 m elevation) Bare Creek Trail Run on 6/11.... I know which is the one that's making think "whoops... what was I thinking when I signed up"
Definitely team ⛰
Lucky enough to be able to run on the goldfield trails just down the road from Ballarat. The most extreme trails I've done are at Larapinta near Alice Springs! Definitely feel stronger going in to the Melbourne Marathon
Doing mine the other way around Sydney 1/2 and then 2 months later the 20Km Bare Creek Trail in Sydney's Garigal NP... Trying to convince myself the 1/2 is training for the trail...
@@HS-fm9kv Good luck with the run mate, try to make sure there are a few hill/ treadmill incline sessions in your road training
@@marko7871 Thank you. Wake up call with this Sunday's City to Surf (although not as bad as anticipated).
Good luck with your marathon in October.
@@HS-fm9kv Heartbreak hill, hey?
@@marko7871 + the couple of teasers before you get to it- which kind of compounds it.
I do all my long runs in the forest. It’s great fun and the people you meet are all generally friendly people. With lots of “mornings” being said, normally when I’m going uphill 😂 Yes Beware of tree roots there is a particular one that has caught out a few people including me (twice) 😂
Where are you running in the video please? Looks beautiful! 😍
In the beautiful Swiss Alps 😍
The club I'm in have summer and winter routes. The summer routes are 75%trial with steep hills and 25%road. The winter it's 100% road running. Road,
Trail running is the best! Own up though Sarah, how many times did you trip over whilst trying to look into the camera? :D
I gave up road running, trail running is less impact on my body at my age 👍😬
An added bonus of trail running is that it strengthens your ankels (and by extention your stability).
Very true Jo!
Love trails but the area around me is very flat even the trails so I always have a look to see if there's anywhere fun to run elsewhere in the Country when I get to travel. I do want to upgrade from my Garmin 245 to something with navigation as I have to be really careful with route planning and be a lot safer and less adventurous than I would like.
Trails all the way! Actually off trail is even better ☺️
Lovely 😍 Where do you run?
@@runningchannel Southern Finland. Lots of trails, forest and lakes.
Sarah is great.
There is a 10km trail race where I normally walk next weekend. Maybe I could enter and shuffle my way through....
Go for it! 👏👏 You won't regret giving it a go 😁
Running on trails brings a person closer to nature
Very timely- finished my third road marathon on the Sunshine Coast (Australia) at the weekend in a PB (3hrs38mins) and am now looking to give my knees a rest and try something different so looking for suggestions for trails around the Northern Beaches of Sydney please (preferably flat!)?
Love the channel- please keep up the great content.
Congratulations on a great PB Matt! 👏👏 We aren't too familiar with Australian trails but will keep an ear out for you!
Someome in another comment has mentioned Bare Creek Trail in Garigal National Park which is close by
@@marko7871 Thanks- my son has ridden his bike up there. Will check it out.
If you want to get back to the Sunshine Coast for a trail race, check out the Blackall 100. It's awesome and has 100km, 50km and 21km options.
Don't got no natural trails in my city (Dubai). I can try beach run for a change from my normal road running but its not the same as trail running of course.
🏔⛰ Just a little indulging for me. I like the fact that it's irregular and you sometimes (most often) have to walk hills and so I don't get bogged down by stats and speed because it's not regular. I sometimes take a picnic in my pack and just go out for a day of run walking. I run when I want, walk what I want. So much to see around as well. I live in the Chilterns.
I remember my first race in Philippines🇵🇭 when I took a video ug a fruit that I take in place of no where because I'm running out of water.
Trails!
Content is Always good
Last time I went trail running, I turned my ankle on some leaf-covered roots, and ended up hobbling home. Six weeks later, I could run again, but slowly...
Oh no! Sorry to hear that Matt 😖 Ankle injuries are a potential negative of trail running
Very bad luck. There is certainly more scope for injuries, I broke my big toe (I think) on a stub of metal bar that was imbedded in the ground.
I also found some leaf-covered roots and broke my foot 2 times in the pandemic. I'm currently recovering from the second injury and hope that I can get back to my running routine around Christmas
@@schneckirella Ugh - I thought mine was bad! I hope you heal up strong and get back out there soon, road or trail!
@@leinad512 Now that's just sabotage!
I have a lake plus woodland nearby, I prefer trails....more interesting
Lucky you Wendy! How long have you been trail running?
I'm lucky to have a trail about .5 miles from my house. I usually only run on the gentler parts of the trail. I get a little beat up on the stuff with lots of rocks and roots.
I live in Auckland ,Aotearoa NZ, you can accidentally go trail running.
I got lost on my last trail run, running far more than my intended 13k. Accidentally ran my first half marathon.
Hahaha well that's one way to start! How did you find it?
@@runningchannel I was pleasantly surprised I could finish it. I've not been running for very long and it showed me a lot of running is in the mind.