08/01/2022
πHitting the Trails...π
Now that we can venture further afield, the lure of the trails as somewhere different and βgreenerβ to run will get stronger.
It is absolutely no coincidence that over the past few years trail running has boomed as a sport as people βtry something newβ or look for a more relaxed vibe for their running. I for one, am huge advocate for trail running, for a whole heap of reasons. When you think about it, we spend so much of our lives avoiding what is truly difficult, competitive or testing, but when it comes to trail running we seem to lap it up! The courses are harder, thereβs more equipment needed, thereβs more risk of snake bites, falling off a cliff or twisting an ankle. To me, this means itβs more than just the running which attracts us. Itβs the environment created through remoteness, the getting in touch with nature, the community support, the real access to amazing role models, the lack of airs and graces and more. At trail running events we can connect with smiling, chatty, enthusiastic volunteers armed with cake, lollies, coke and salty snacks at every aid station, whilst supporting environmentally friendly initiatives like no plastic cups on the course, zero tolerance for littering, supporting local environmental charities through registration fees etc.
Trail running environments are competitive but value community, health and inclusivity above everything else. When I think about it, I have heard more open discussions about health and mental health in these environments than anywhere else. These conversations simply wouldnβt happen if it werenβt for the environment that allows people need to feel safe, valued and listened to.
Particularly at the moment, with all the stresses and strains of the past 18 months, I would love to see us runners hitting the trails as part of our regular running. However, as we dust off our trail shoes, keep in mind that these places or events are not just a walk in the park. It takes a little while to get used to the trails, re-gain confidence and find that skill.
A great option to help with that is Trail Bus, which several GoRunners have already used. Again, this is a supportive, inclusive, safe environment and a great introduction or re-introduction to the trails. You can check them out here: https://trailbus.com.au/
Check them out. Enjoy! π