Steven Rindner Provides Tips on Preparing for Trail Running

One of the best aspects of running is that it provides people with various opportunities to embrace a new challenge or adventure, such as starting trail running. As per Steven Rindner, trail running is often a path where long-time road runners find themselves when they are in need of a change in scenery, or just want to try out something fun. After all, dirt trails and rough terrain are way more exciting than the typical paved roads.

Steven Rindner talks about how to prepare for trail running

Even though trail running is all about having fun and enjoying the moment, maintaining a low-key approach towards trail running does not necessarily mean that the runners do not have to do any preparation whatsoever. Trail running is definitely a simple way to explore the nature and improve fitness level. However, there are a few elements to keep in mind prior to heading out on such an adventure, such as:

• Find a trail in a familiar area: People who are new to trail running must especially try to stay in an area they are familiar with. If not, they should at least stick to well-marked trails and bring an offline map to the run. Running on well marked trails is important unless one has a solid knowledge of the area. It is always better to carry some extra water and snacks as well, in case it takes more time than expected to complete the run.
• Prepare for getting lost: No matter whether one has plans to run on the local trails or somewhere remote they have never been before, it is vital for the runners to have a clear idea of where they are going and how to find the way back. Marked hiking trails are a safe way to start. However, it can be a bit tricky to find the way around in new areas. At times, the markings on trails may not be the best. Hence, it is prudent to have some sort of a backup, like an offline map of the route.
• Bring extra water and snacks: Unless the trail is too long, no such specific pre-run nutrition is needed for the activity. Runners can have anything they normally eat before a workout. However, before hitting the trail, they should ideally try to find if there is water in wells along the way or if the water in streams is drinkable. If not, it is better to bring enough water to cover the run. For a long trail runs, it would be a good idea to get snacks packed in calories, like protein bars.
• Be realistic about the fitness level: Before heading out into the wilderness, runners need to assess their fitness level and running experience realistically. Outdoor running does require a certain level of fitness in certain situations. While going for a run on a well-marked trail in a recreational area would not be too challenging, running on a hilly terrain would undoubtedly be tougher.

As per Steven Rindner, while running in a hilly area would be harder than running on a flat road, one of the key attractions of trail running is that it is more about enjoying the experience than anything else. Hence, rather than worrying about the trail, one must remember that they are not in a hurry and just take it easy.