Trail Mix It Up

Hey guys. So, you have ran on the roads and bike paths long enough. How about you get outside today and drive to your nearest off-road trail and mix it up. Not only is it a different workout for your body (burns more calories), but it will also provide you an exciting experience and probably get you sore in areas that you are not normally (calves, glutes) after a regular flat surface run. Before you do, however, I wanted to make you aware of some of the hidden dangers of setting off into unchartered territory. Check out these trail blazing tips.

1. Bring a Cell Phone: This is always a good idea when you are going to be off the main road. If you happen to fall, you might not be heard or seen if you call for help. Also, tell your friends or loved one where you are going to be and how long you might be gone for.

2. Feet Need Extra Protection: Perhaps you want to think about wearing a thicker sock, or an additional insole, in order to prevent some pain you might experience from running on uneven ground. Thorlos brand of socks actually makes a sock that is specific to trail running.

3. Lose the IPOD: Do I need to explain why? Ever run in nature with the birds chirping, the wind blowing through the tops of the pines, and the sun lighting the path in front of you? If you do this, sans music in your ears, you might find that your senses are heightened and you can actually relax more and have an overall more enjoyable running experience.

4. Watch the penetrability of your shoes: Get less meshy shoes if you can. If you are constantly getting little rocks and sand in your shoes, they are probably sneaking through the little orifices in your shoes. You can try the thicker socks and/or try some trail running shoes.

5. Just Relax: One of the things you might notice most after you do your first trail run is that your shoulders are tight the next day. Why is that? Well, because you are running tentatively because of the uneven footing and/or because you are nervous. CHILL OUT! You want to stay as relaxed as possible and let your body take you where you want to go.

HAVE FUN AND ENJOY THE TRAILS!