Trail running is an endurance sport, which is quite similar to road running. However, while road running takes place on paved, sealed, surfaced, or asphalt roads, trail running involves running on natural terrain. As Steven Rindner mentions, this terrain can be desert, wooded, or mountainous areas. Road runners usually focus on their pace, speed, heart rate and distance. However, for most trail runners, the priority is to have fun amidst nature and enjoy the joy of exploration.
Steven Rindner offers an introduction to trail running
Trail running involves going on a run in the heart of nature. This sport works both the legs and the upper body of the runners. It also requires a high degree of attention and concentration, as the runners need to navigate uneven terrains. Trail running is very different from running on the road or hard asphalt. But at the same time, this increasingly popular sport cannot be equated with mountain running where the focus generally is on the steepest and fastest ascent.
While trail running is not only practised in the mountains, rugged terrains and climbs are an integral part of the sport. The route, associated terrain as well as the conditions in trail running are much more varied than with mountain running. When on a trail run, the runners typically have to alternate between walking and running during the ascents. They may also need to use poles or push their legs with their arms in the steeper sections. On the other hand, during descents, the runners must watch their footholds, and try to land on the forefoot to cushion the impact. Using the arms often becomes necessary to maintain balance. Runners should try to embrace the slop, run in a relaxed manner and try to have fun with the terrain.
The terrain varies constantly in trail running, as opposed to road running. One would have to run over rocks, grass and mud, and even over snow during a white trail run. In most cases, even an urban or a city trail tends to foster a diverse route.
As Steven Rindner says, depending on the route and the weather conditions, runners may have to cope with a lot on a trail. In addition to technique and endurance, concentration and balance also play an important role in trail running. Many believe that trail running requires the runners to complete all parts of the course at a running pace. But this is not the case. Very often, trail runners alternate between walking and running in the uphill sections. At times, fast walking can additionally be more economical than running.
Trail running often helps the runners to open their senses, listen to their body and its sensations, and gain an appreciation of the place where they are running. All these feelings allow runners to exercise in harmony with the natural environment. As runners concentrate on each step on the trail, they shall begin to think less and start listening to their emotions. This sensitivity allows runners to take pleasure in exercising and being outdoors.