STAY SAFE ON THE TRAILS

 

    

Even if trail running can be a serene, peaceful experience of becoming one with nature – it is also at its core an extreme sport.That's why you should always exercise caution on the trails – because a good trail runner is a safe trail runner. 

Here are our top 10 tips to staying safe on the trails.



#1 Keep your eyes on the road: No matter how experienced a runner you are, you won't get far unharmed unless you focus all your senses on finding the right path. Fix your eyes on a spot on the ground 3-4 meters ahead of you.

#2 Run with someone - or tell someone where you plan to run.

A special trick for runners is to do only half- or three-quarters-squats - don't go all the way down, because that increases the likelihood of injury. Try to bend your leg about as much as you do when running, not more.

#3 If running alone, consider wearing some kind of ID – or bring a phone.

#4 Bright colours are good, not just as a fashion statements, but for making it easier for fellow runners to notice you on the trails.

#5 If you run on roots or rocks, try to hit the ground between them, instead of landing on top of them. Rolling ankles don't last for long...

#6 Bring some fuel on long runs. Even a small energy bar, in case you get lost or your run takes longer than you thought.

#7 Have a target time frame, not a set distance. Trails are unpredictable, and a certain distance can take a lot longer than expected.

#8 Take quicker strides: It lets you react to the surface better – and avoid tripping.

#9 If you meet another runner while going up a hill, always give the downhill runner the right of way - it's more dangerous for him to change direction.

#10 Bring money for emergencies.