Trail running is considered by most to be part of the elite group of running. A few factors support this narrative: expensive gear, the cost to access trails, travel, and lifestyle. Unlike road running, buckling up and hitting the ground running for trails is not as easy. To have an enjoyable experience on trails, one must consider a few things.
Gear makes or breaks the experience
I entered the realm of trail running by chance through a race substitution. A friend had an injury and therefore offered an entry to ‘Run the Berg”. I had hiked the Drakensberg mountains before but even with that experience, I was ill-prepared for the race. Firstly, I ran with my road shoes, which were slightly worn off and therefore horribly slippery – yes, I kissed the ground with my butt more than once. I soon learned that the right gear is important to adequately prepare for trail races. One should invest in quality trail running shoes to withstand trail obstacles like rocks, roots, and mud. Some shops, especially those located at the trail parks, offer to test shoes to ensure the right fit for an extended period.
There are compulsory items required (over and above the normal running gear) at most trail running races that should form part of training gear. The list includes a 1.5L hydration pack, waterproof jacket, charged cell phone, whistle, thermal base layer, a buff, a cap, and an energy bar or snacks. Other recommended items vary per different races, but these are often standard and therefore not negotiable in most trail races.
Although with increasingly accurate weather forecasting, the mountains are unpredictable, and therefore the list is often drawn for different seasons for the safety of runners. Some trails don’t have water sources let alone drinkable water, therefore, a hydration pack filled with water to be used sparingly is essential. Hydration packs also come in different sizes, so finding the right fit is important.
Train on trails
My preparation for the first trail race was done on the road which didn’t give the variation of the mountains and did not have acceptable technicality. Time spent on trails is not equivalent to the road. The mistake that most road runners make is expecting to run trails at the same pace as they do on the road. Trails have more variables making it difficult to even compare time on different trails. Another thing to consider is that no one trail is the same across all seasons; one might perform better in winter than in summer on the same trail or vice versa. Some hills are so steep that running becomes inefficient and therefore a power hike is advisable to conserve energy.
To get better at trail running, one must train on trails.
This means researching trails around prioritizing safety and convenience. Some trails offer annual membership at discounted prices for unlimited visits. This might save some cash but only if it is utilized frequently, otherwise purchasing day passes is the way to go. Also, day passes allow for some flexibility to try out other trails and not be restricted to one. Choosing easier or less technical trails builds up confidence and encouragement to enjoy trail running. It also helps to tag a pal along for some companionship and to capture the scenic moments. When researching on trails, consider incidence cases of theft or mugging and be aware of the dangerous zones. It’s always important to carry an ICEID tag (In Case of Emergency Identification) for when things go wrong. The wilderness is never predictable and it’s therefore important to prepare for anything and to be continuously aware of the surroundings.
Trail marking/signage
Marked trails are easy to follow but if you come across a trail with different paths, you can easily get lost and therefore end up doing the wrong trail/distance. Common trail markers used are color-coded arrows, reflective tapes, or trail-specific signage which are normally detailed at the start of the trail. The rule of thumb on trails is that if you think that you are going in the wrong direction, you are most likely lost. Trails are marked at certain intervals which should also be included in the trail briefing. If you don’t see a marker/signage for an extended period, then it’s advisable to return to the last spot where there was a marker for clear direction. Stay the course and focus on the signage applicable to the trail being followed.
Runners are not the only ones that use the trails, in some trails, there will be hikers, bird watchers, dog walkers, and mountain bikers. Trails are single-track, allowing for only one person to pass at a point in time, so it’s important to be mindful of other people using the trails.
Remember to only leave footprints on trails and if you come across some litter, please be a decent citizen and pick it up.
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