Considering trail running. Any advice?

NorthCascades

lorrpb wrote: »

No expert on the topic, but it would make sense to do some downhills in town to help condition your muscles & connective tissue. Such a gorgeous route you've chosen!

You're always such a positive and cheerful person, and very encouraging. Before I started this thread I wondered if the down hill might be an issue, people confirmed that it can be, but it sounds like it's not insurmountable, and I can even work at it ahead of time to have a better day on the trail. I'm kind of an indecisive person, and this is helping me a lot. Thank you.

RuNaRoUnDaFiEld

The downhill is what puts the pressure on the lower spine and knees. And people also try to go too fast and end up face planting.

Your pictures are amazing. Very jealous.

Nony_Mouse

NorthCascades wrote: »

I really appreciate the advice, everybody.

There was a time in my life when I was too heavy and unfit to run. I don't love running, but I love being able to.

I've only ever run on streets in my neighborhood in Seattle. I'm kind of looking forward to soft dirt.

I started out with trail running, because it followed on from trail walking. When I first saw articles about 'how to do trail running' I was like 'huh? Am I doing it wrong?', turns out not. I loathe street running with a fierce passion.

So need to start running again

rybo

NorthCascades wrote: »

scorpio516 wrote: »

Look out for bikers.

That's one thing this trail has going for it for my purposes with this. No bikes, no horses. Even mid-week, though, it'll be crowded, this is the most heavily used trail in the area.

You and @Tiny_Dancer_in_Pink are both stressing footing, other people have stressed the important of small strides. As a novice runner, should I find another trail to get started? Or do you think if I make a point of running down hilly roads in the city, I can figure it out before this run? (It won't be melted out enough for another month.)

You're going to have to make that call on your own. The good part is that at any time the trail becomes too steep or technical, slow or stop. Personally I love cutting loose on a steep down hill, it's an adrenaline rush. And a technical trail where every foot placement needs to be precise really helps me focus. What one person loves, another may avoid. But yes to the part about short choppy strides on technical parts. Much easier to maneuver.

ninerbuff

Lol, don't run without bear mace.

A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
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NorthCascades

@ninerbuff The bears up there are pretty skittish - no grizz. Saw two when I biked up to the trailhead.

kenyonhaff

TELL SOMEONE WHERE YOU ARE GOING. Give trail names, region, etc. This is doubly important if you are going alone. STAY FOUND.

TELL THEM ABOUT WHEN YOU WILL BE BACK. Don't depend solely on cell phone coverage!!! Remember that texts usually are more effective than phone calls.

PACK AS IF YOU MIGHT BREAK YOUR LEG ON THE TRAIL. Things go wrong in the back country even on well travelled trails that have lots of people on them. Even seasoned hikers or runners can get lost, wander off trail, have a medical emergency, and even end up having to help someone else.

Whenever I go hiking in any reasonably wild place, I bring:
*space blanket
*fire making device
*first aid kit
* water, extra food
* cell phone
* small flashlight
* compass
* map
* small pocketknife

Safety is very important on the trail...and it may not be for you, it may be for someone else.