Visited dafltogic.com to check the distance we ran yesterday
and I was almost disappointed to find out that it was not as far as the
maintenance run. But this was a trail run and
that makes all the difference.
The trail is a different beast altogether presenting unique
challenges and benefits that you may not encounter when you run the road or the
athletic oval.
Firstly, for many the beaten path is more challenging than
the road or the oval. This is because the ground’s awkward surface will not
allow your feet to achieve the easy rhythm they can have when running on a flat
surface say a treadmill. On the trail, you would have to constantly change how and
where you land your feet as you maneuver your way through tree roots, the bare
ground, fallen leaves or branches, muddy surfaces even. Most likely, you will
also find yourself running in an ever changing elevation.
But is the human body designed to run on pavement or the
ground? I would deign to answer that it would be the latter. Ask those who live
near running trail areas and they can walk or run the mountain in any footwear.
I, myself do so with minimalist shoes and I have yet to injure myself doing so.
Of course, extra care is needed when you are shifting from the cement to the
earth.
Second, most likely the trail would be sheltered by trees. These
trees serve a lot of purposes for the runner chief among them would be their
existence as our “extra lungs” making it easier for you to breath- fresh air
that is. Their natural shade is a bonus. On the road, you might find yourself
wanting to cover your nose when traffic pollution becomes apparent.
Finally and this is
both a pro and a con, some trails serve as a temporary solace from the madding
crowd(the city). Usually found on the edges of the city, trails are often more
inaccessible for runners with busy work schedules. Because of this many would
be concerned about safety and security when running on trails especially when
running alone. Since if ever you will be
injured running on the road, it would be a lot easier to call for help compared
to when you are deep in a forest and you suffer a sprain. Security would also
be a credible concern. Nonetheless, running with a buddy or a group quells all
these worries as is being prepared and knowing full well your surroundings (if
ever you go alone). Moreover, running on the road may even be more dangerous
with speeding cars around. That is why when road running, it is strongly advised
that you do not plug in your headsets or at least lower the volume of your
running music. On the trail, you could let lose, or even lose that headset as
you listen to the “sounds of nature” and you “forest bath” your stress away.
I am sure there are other benefits and challenges of trail
running. As always, comments, additions and even criticisms are most welcome.
In the meantime, here is a first one for the trails.
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