TRAIL RUNNING (running on a trail) has also been called skyrunning and it's different from running on the road. Trail running in general takes place on mountain hiking trails, as a single shift. A special feature of the trail running route is that it is often not accessible to vehicles, except the route heads. The routes cross varied types of land like hills, mountains, forests, deserts. Also, steep slopes or rugged terrain may sometimes require a bit of climbing.

Runners participating in trail running competitions must often descend steep slopes. It is not unusual in this sport for the participants to climb and descend thousands of meters level difference.

Trail Running is a sport growing in popularity from year to year and is practiced worldwide. In 2007 there were over 7 million practitioners of the sport in the United States and over 40 million worldwide. Classic distances for trail running competitions are 5km, 10km, 20km, 30km, 42km (marathon), 50km, 50miles. Competitions that exceed the classic marathon distance of 42km are named ultra-marathons.

For Beginners

Isn't it too difficult for beginners? Trail running is ideal for an inexperienced runner. Reasons are that it is kind to your wrists, you can escape the crowds and traffic, and can be less conscious, tense at the thought of jogging (most beginners are more or less tense, which decreases performance).

You do not necessarily have to run to the end. It's perfectly normal to walk on certain sections of the route, even when you're an experienced runner. At first you'll walk more than you run. Trail-running is also an activity that does not necessarily mean competition. You can enjoy the scenery, fresh air, flora and fauna while running. However, if you're the type who loves the competition, there are many international races and in Romania they also multiply from year to year, trail running becoming more and more popular.

Equipment

Many practitioners use trail running shoes specifically designed for this sport. They are generally a little stiffer than running shoes for the road. Shoes are generally low to provide more balance on uneven terrain. Material of the sole is made to protect feet against injury caused by any sharp objects found on the route.

Since trail running is more often practiced on softer surfaces (grass, earth, gravel) than on roads, the absorption is easier. Other items of equipment may be breathable clothing, containers for water, sunglasses, sun cream, snow fences, mini backpack or pouch, rain jacket, trekking poles / ski poles. Another way to carry water during the race is a Camelback (mini backpack provided with a bag and a water hose).

Benefits of trail running

Why run on trails and hiking trails? Did you know that running on trails is less demanding on your body than running on asphalt? On tracks your body lands different with every step you take, helping to reduce injuries due to over-training.

Running on trails, with the variance of ups and downs, twists and turns, uses a wider range of muscles, tendons and ligaments. Further strengthening connective tissues, joints are better protected and assisted. Meanwhile, addressing such lands you improve balance and agility.

For all these reasons it is easier to increase the number of kilometers running on trails. Because of these benefits many marathon runners are training on the mountain routes. And in addition to these physiological benefits, running the trail takes you out of the urban jungle to fresh air and often amazing views.

Famous international competitions

Transalpina Run
X Terra Trail Run
Ultra trail du Mont Blanc
X Trail Asics