This week we have a guest blog from Bristol Run Series Partners – Maverick Race, written by Elyse Fletcher. If you’re interested in learning more about trail running read on, and remember to sign up to the Bristol Run Series 6.5k in the Mendips now!
So you’re interested in trail running, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Maverick Race we are all about trail running! We live and breathe life on the trails, always looking for new trails to run on, new adventures to go on and new runners to join us!
But… What exactly is trail running? Why is it (in our opinion) superior to road running? What are trail shoes? And is it only for runners who can run 100 miles over mountain ranges and tolerate an unpleasant amount of mud?
We’ve written a handy short intro to answer those questions.
What is trail Running?
Trail running is simply when you run on anything unpaved.
Those hard packed gravel tracks you might have seen in a park, yes, that’s trail running. Coastal paths, mountain ascents, forest fire roads, if it’s unpaved then it’s trail running. This means that trail running is a lot more accessible than people initially think as trails really can be found anywhere, even within cities.
Trail running is also a lot more about the adventure you have and the time spent in the great outdoors, instead of checking your pacing splits or running PB’s. Seldom will you hear trail runners discussing finishers times or progressive training sessions, instead you will hear a lot more discussion around epic new routes and unexplored trails. Because of this trail running is a very inclusive, fun and relaxed sport. Of course there are competitive races, buton the whole trail runners are out there for an adventure and to soak up time outside.
Trail running will take you to the most incredible places and leave you breathless at the scenery you’re able to explore whilst on two feet. We can’t recommend it enough and we see so many road runners getting hooked on exploring the trails.
Why is it (in our opinion) superior to road running?
Firstly as we’ve said above, trail running is a relaxed sport with an emphasis on getting outside no
matter your pace or experience level. Because of that we think it is superior to road running.
Secondly, you won’t find any ‘sharp elbows’ at trail running events as it’s actively encouraged to take a bit of time to really immerse yourself in the trails.
Furthermore, unlike road running, trail running brings a sense of calmness to our runners who frequently stop to take photos during their runs and don’t worry about what their garmins are doing. It really is the easy-going nature of trail running that makes it superior to road running.
What are trail shoes?
Trail shoes are simply a different type of trainer that is designed for handling more technical terrain and will help protect your toes, feet, ankles and everything else further up the chain (knees, hips and so on…) from the path ahead.
You wouldn’t ride a road bike off road as you’d find the tyres too thin and slippery and you’d likely fall off. Additionally you’d find a road bike to be really uncomfortable as you went over technical terrain and your body position would be all wrong. Instead you’d want a mountain bike with nice fat tyres that had plenty of grip. You’d also want a bike with plenty of suspension and padding to protect your body as you took on whatever the path threw at you.
The above is what you’d also experience should you wear road trainers off road. Your sleek racing flats would see you slip and slide to the ground and leave your ankles rather unprotected as you navigated over any sort of lump and bump. For trail running you’re best off in shoes with additional grip on the bottom, extra protection around the toes and increased support around the ankles. Trail shoes are also often more ‘roomy’ in the toe box (the front bit of the shoe) which allows for a bit of movement as you take on technical paths stopping your toes from becoming bashed up and bruised.
Is trail running only for runners who can run 100 miles over mountain ranges and tolerate a lot of mud?
In a word. NO!
Trail running really is an inclusive sport that welcomes all types of runners with open arms. There are some absolutely bonkers trail races out there that see runners tackle high peaks over insane distances. However there are also loads of trail running events that showcase local hidden trails you didn’t know were right on your doorstep.
Also we need to address the elephant in the room… mud. Trail running isn’t always muddy, but it certainly can be. Trails are a lot more susceptible to weather conditions than the roads and therefore, if it’s been wet, the trails will be wet and vice versa. Mud isn’t something to be concerned about, just make sure you pack a change of shoes and socks for after your run and you’ll never bat an eyelid.
Take a look at our upcoming races by clicking here. Our trail running events are friendly and welcoming and we are frequently told how chilled and relaxed our races are, especially compared to road races. If you’re new to running as a sport or simply want to move away from pounding the pavements and give trail running a go, you won’t look back. We’d love for you to come and join us.
If you’re feeling stuck on where to start with a training plan then click here. There’s a plan for every type of runner, whether you’re looking to run your first ever trail race, or you’re looking to tackle a big trail ultra. We’ve got you covered!