Think
you've got what it takes?!
Trail Running 101
- First of all you need, not want, need good shoes. I
can't count the amount of times that the tread on the bottom of my
shoes were the only reason I stuck a landing.
- Secondly you need to be aware of the fact that you will fall. It's gonna happen at least twice. It probably won't be too bad, but you just need to accept the inevitable for a while. Once you get more acquainted with running on uneven ground, through creek beds, over rocks, and on logs then you can expect to fall less, but the trail will still surprise you.
- You should plan to have water. You can read my Hiking page to see my rant about water. I don't typically carry water with me, but I know some people who do.
- Learn your limits and then go out and break them.
I've sprained my ankles a lot trying to "break my limits," but the
times that it goes smoothly completely make up for the aches and pains.
- I also recommend inline skating, because it's a great way
to strenghten your ankles and learn how to balance on different parts
of your feet.
- Wet rocks and semi-wet rocks will destroy you. The end.