So You Want to be a Trail Runner?

By Amy Willis

You’ve seen the photos on Instagram of people running through tall pine forests in the Pacific Northwest with sunlight piercing through the trees, highlighting their perfect form. It looks so idyllic, peaceful, and transcendental. And it is, or it can be, but there are some fundamental truths that come with trail running that any newbie must learn. 

You Will Fall

It’s going to happen, probably more than once. Even the Kilian Jornet’s of the trail running community take a dive from time to time. It doesn’t matter how much experience or training you have, when you least expect it, a root or rock can grab the front of your toe and down you go, like a toddler landing on all fours. Hopefully your landing spot is kind and you can brush off your dirty knees and keep on with the run, but sometimes that's not the case. It is also likely that you will roll your ankle here and there. Most of the time these are reminders to pay attention, but are not severe. Other times you’ll need help getting out. That’s why running with a group is handy! Also, pick up your feet.

Here are a few suggestions to better prepare for tumbles on the trail.

Stay Focused.

As much as we want to soak in the beauty around us or catch a glimpse of a rare bird or an epic sunrise, stay focused on where your feet are going. While you’re moving, keep your target at a few feet in front of you. If you want to stop and admire nature, take a moment, fully stop, and look up. Trail running is far different from running on the road, there are constant distractions from branches, cacti, rocks, river crossings, and maybe even wildlife, depending on where you are. As you get more comfortable on the trail you will be better at multitasking while running. You have to be aware of your surroundings, high and low, left and right. While many road runners prefer to listen to music to fuel their run, on the trail, you'll need to be able to hear the rustling of leaves, the sound of a mountain bike changing gears, or even the rattle of a snake. Trail runners are in nature’s territory and we must respect that. Not to mention that when you zone out, you sometimes miss a turn and lose the trail. If you do wear headphones, make sure you can hear your surroundings, or just put in one ear pod. Also, while we run as a group we prefer runners be able to converse and engage with each other, and headphones can detract from that opportunity. While you’re running, make mental notes of turns and changes, as many trails are unmarked. Maybe there’s a goofy looking tree or an off-colored rock, these landmarks will keep you on the right path.

Be Prepared

That brings me to my next point. Always bring water and some food if you think you’ll be out for longer than an hour. A light jacket, phone, headlamp, and a basic emergency kit are also wise. Anything can happen on the trail, and if you’re alone, you only have yourself to rely on. Make sure you map out your route before getting on the trail and download it if you know there won’t be service where you’re going. 

Be Smart

Running alone may sound like a nice idea, it’s just you and the open trail, but if you’re in a new place, or are uncertain of the terrain you’re running on, bring a friend! I know, most runners love to run alone, but the safety of having another buddy with you allows you to get off the beaten path and explore further. Also, be mindful of the time of day you’re running. Early mornings are great because you get your run in before the day starts, but running in the dark has its challenges. Tell a friend or family member if you’re running alone in the dark and be on high alert. Even a trail that feels comfortable can surprise you when the sun goes down. 

Be Patient

Hey, you’re new to this, you won’t be perfect at first, but you will get better. You don’t need to run fast, you don’t even need to run the whole time, take it easy and learn from your own experience. Practice with a group, learn the trails, and get comfortable with trail running. Before you know it, you’ll be venturing off to faraway places and racing in places you’ve always dreamed. It’s worth it.

Other People Use the Trail

Sure, getting off the road and onto the trail accounts for far more solitude, but if you live in a city like Austin, there will be other people with this same thought. From hikers, mountain bikers, dogs, and children, expect that you won’t be alone all the time. Proper trail etiquette gives the hiker or trail runner priority to pass. Although I’ve always found it easier to move out of the way when a mountain biker rides up instead of having them stop for me. Oftentimes they will be moving quickly through the trail, this is another reason to run headphone free. If you’re wanting to pass a hiker, simply call out “on your left”, when passing, and give them time to move to the side before passing. 

Leave No Trace

Anything you bring in with you must be taken back out, including any (ahem…bathroom) tissue, food wrappers, fallen gloves, or dropped water bottles. See all of the Leave No Trace guidelines here.

Keep Our Trails Clean

We all want to keep our trails clean and accessible for everyone. While you’re out there, you are a representative of the trail running community. Be patient, kind, and take care of our precious trails and the people who love them. There are many trail clean up and maintenance groups in the Austin area, join one and give back to the trails that give us so much.

Join A Trail Running Group

Here is my shameless plug! There are many reasons why joining a running group is a good idea for people new to trail running. The accountability will get you out the door on days you want to sleep in, you’ll learn all the trails in the area, you’ll always have friends nearby for help and companionship, and you’ll have support, community, and motivation year around. So go ahead, be a trail runner, get out there and see parts of the world that few get to see. Once your feet have hit the dirt, you’ll be hooked.