Training

What is Trail Running?

Trail running is enjoying a huge boost in popularity as more and more runners opt out of urban environments to run in the tranquil, serene setting of the trails.

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What is Trail Running?

Trail running is essentially just that: running on the trails, usually in a rural landscape and away from from busy roads and urban sprawl. This involves training on stony, muddy and rocky tracks and grass, often through hilly terrain, through woodland and forests, and along rivers.

Trail runners have long cited the physical and mental benefits of logging their miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Tricky, uneven terrain and undulating hills make for a workout that conditions and activates muscles under-used when running on the road, which improves overall endurance and performance. Added to that, study after study now suggests that training in a peaceful trail setting helps boost mood, mental focus and reduces stress.

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What’s the Difference Between Trail and Fell Running?

Fell running is in essence, the extreme version of trail running. This involves wild, mountainous, rocky terrain with steep, technical ascents and descents, often across long distances through remote landscapes, and sometimes through the night. Fell running also requires navigational skills, and often necessitates the carrying of survival equipment. Most UK fell races are governed by the FRA (Fell Runners Association), graded according to distance and severity and have mandatory kit regulations which are strictly adhered to.

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Is Trail Running right for me?

The trail running community is growing fast, with trail and fell running clubs springing up across the UK, and races taking place almost every weekend. Trail running is exhilarating, accessible to runners of all abilities and the trail running community is known for its great camaraderie and laid back culture.

So, if you’re stuck in a running rut, you’re feeling bored with your usual routes or you simply feel the need to de-stress and breathe some country air, why not give trail running a try? Read our Beginners Guide to get started.

Looking for some training tips and advice? Then head over to our Training category where our athletes and experts explain everything you need to know.