Why run on a boring old road when you could run in the woods?
Trails differ across the country, of course.
In other areas, trails may be more rocky or sandy, climb mountains, or be dead flat.
Heres what you gotta know about making the switch.
For trails, though, you may want to start over and find shoes designed for them.
Some road shoes, as a pleasant surprise, may work just fine on the trails.
(I do both my road running and trail running in theNike Free.)
Heres what youll need to keep in mind:
Grip.
Find shoes that can keep their grip on wet and irregular surfaces.
If your trails are rocky, you may want plenty of rubber between your feet and the road.
On the other hand, some runners love minimalist trail shoes.
and alwaysease into minimalist runningif youre new to it.
On the trails, though, all bets are off.
Youre also working your muscles harder, in many cases, to dodge obstacles and constantly adjust your footing.
Heres how to deal with this new reality:
Stop caring about your pace.
Accept that pace means very little on the trails, and judge runs by how you feel.
Train by heart rateif you really want to gauge effort by the numbers.
If your pace is slow but your heart is pumping, you know youre working hard.
Running without walk breaks is a reasonable goal on the roads, but often impossible on hilly trails.
First, you might get losteven when it feels like youre very close to roads and populated areas.
I thought to follow the trail, but trails dont show up on Google Maps.
Meanwhile, the sun was going down and my phones battery was dying.
Hike or run new trails with somebody who knows the area.
Joining group runs can be a great way to learn trails safely.
Injuries are the other big risk.
If its more involved than skinned knees, consider how youll get back home.
What if you roll your ankle and youre two miles from your car?
Also, consider carrying identification, either in a wallet or a custom tag or bracelet like aRoad ID.
Enjoy yourself
Despite the minor dangers, trail running is fun and addictive.
Next time you go camping, youll be able to see scenery faster than the average hiker.
Then pick out some shoes, ditch the watch, and pack some safety gear.
