trail run prep
73
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1089 days
JMA posted 2 years ago.
Definitely run the trail near your house. I do a couple of off-road tris per season and several trail running races. The terrain of a trail run makes a difference in pace and requires much more alertness. If you are not looking ahead and slightly down to see any obstacles, ruts, roots, loose spots, mud, etc., you can easily turn an ankle or trip and fall.
Trail races are some of my favorites, though. The routes are usually interesting and usually you get to run in the shade.
74
Member
1108 days
gjpure posted 2 years ago.
Yes, that is another thing I have noticed about trail running. It seems that I am running faster as the trees wizz by. It seems harder to keep a consistent pace to as you go up and down hills and around bends, etc. In turn, this seems to elevate the heart rate more than a flat road course. I love trail running for this reason; the challenge, the scenery, etc. But here in Michigan its not like I can walk outside my house and jump on a trail everyday. Any additional thoughts on how to keep a consistent pace and keep a good rythmn on this type of course? Thanks for your thoughts.
16
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799 days
TheCahill posted 2 years ago.
Do you have old RR tracks or phone line cuts that go through wooded areas near you (may not notice them but there almost everywear) or old fire lanes? these are great for off road running, there not technical but will get you feet ready for uneaven running and your legs for the extra controll needed.
122
Member
1101 days
Beldrueger posted 2 years ago.
One piece of advice if the course has really steep downhills: Cut your toenails. I lost a toenail last year after a race with a lot of steep downhills where my foot was jamming the front of the shoe. It didn't hurt too bad. The toenail just fell right off in a few days. Several trail shoes, like Montrails, have bigger toe boxes for this reason.
Otherwise, get out and run those trails!
3283
Member
1264 days
RV posted 2 years ago.
Yup, get out and run that trail a couple times. After running it you might find that it is a nice alternative to running on the road all the time. I also mostly run on the road, but will periodically mix in some nice trail runs. They are great workouts and seems to be a nice release.
RV
It takes a long time to get good. - Scott Molina
Slow is smooth; smooth is fast. - Rich Strauss
190
Member
912 days
jmruns430 posted 2 years ago.
gjpure wrote:
Any additional thoughts on how to keep a consistent pace and keep a good rythmn on this type of course?.
I actually went to a trail running clinic when I lived in Utah for the summer and ran them everyday. The best advice they gave me is to try to maintain constant power or effort, because constant pace is usually near impossible, especially with the hills. You won't go as fast up the hill but you can make sure you'r putting in enough work to keep yourself in a rythm and on track. Have fun, trail runs are my favorite!
I have a tri coming up in earl June which involves a 5 mi trail run. The terrain in rough and involves hills and single track and times. People often moutain bike on it. Since I usually run on the road, I am wondering the best way to prepare for this. I have a similar trail close to my house I thinking of running a few days before just to get mentally prepared for. Any other ideas?