For people too tired of running the same routes on city streets or on the treadmill, going for trail running can be a good way to break the boredom. As Steven Rindner points out, trail running is a great way to get exercise, as well as improve cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance. It may also help reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
Steven Rindner marks some of the top benefits of trail running
Trail running is more unpredictable than road running, meaning one would be not guaranteed a smooth, paved path. While elevation changes might occur in both trail and road running, based on the location, trail running typically includes terrain with rocks, roots, and streams. Over the last decade or so, the popularity of trail running has significantly gone up due to the many advantages it provides. Trail running can help in:
- Improving every element of fitness: Running on trails can be really good for overall health and fitness. The resistance of running uphill can help improve leg strength, while running on uneven ground can improve flexibility, balance and ankle strength. Having to vary stride lengths in order to deal with rocks and roots on the trail helps in improving agility and coordination.
- Enhancing mindfulness: Anyone who has ever gone for hikes would know how important it is to pay attention to where one is going. Running trails is the same. As a result, trail runners would not have any choice but to be present at the moment. Hence, trail running can prove to be a great exercise in mindfulness by default, and help melt the stress away. Trail running is also a great way to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Improving balance: Twisted tracks, roots and rocks tend to demand much greater stability than simply running on smooth roads. When running on a trail, the body of the runner automatically engages its core to maintain balance. This helps in working out smaller, stabilizing muscles and develops a fine-tuned sense of balance.
- Get a feel of an adventure: If a person wants to explore beautiful places, check out hidden spots amidst nature or go for a mini adventure, then getting on the trails would be the ideal move. Trail running allows people to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the outdoors. Trail runners often see stunning scenery and wildlife while they are running. Trail running is often dog-friendly, hence people can even bring their furry friend with them on the adventure.
- Reducing the odds of some injuries: Running on the road can be harder on the joints than running on a soft surface like a trail. In fact, one can actually reduce the risk of certain injuries by heading out onto the trail rather than the pavement.
As Steven Rindner mentions, instead of slogging it out on the treadmill, trail runners are able to put in their miles on footpaths and bridleways in the open countryside, which can be a much more joyful and advantageous experience. Any person fond of running should consider giving trail runs a try.
