Welcome to Wednesday Word, a monthly linkup for everyone, not just health and fitness bloggers. On the first Wednesday of every month you will have a single word prompt to write about. Let your imagination run free and share with your readers your interpretation of that word, or simply use it as inspiration for your post. Today’s word is technical… I’d love to have you link up, and if you do, please remember to follow my four simple rules.

 

Technical (as in trail)
Rough terrain, often in a wilderness setting;
Dirt trails, often covered with roots and loose rocks
~ Deb Runs

 

I recently ran a trail race that was described by the park ranger during the pre-race meeting as technical; 25K later, I wondered why I don’t spend more time running on these types of trails. What’s technical to one person might not be to another, and for me, running with a cautious eye to the ground to avoid tripping on a root, loose rock, and scree while plowing through streams, and slowing to a walk on steep ascents is the determining factor to make a trail technical. The Appalachian Trail is far more technical than the well-groomed trails where I raced, but both are wonderful experiences; and in my humble opinion, far more exciting venues than provided by a road race.

What better time than now, while the memories and excitement from my recent race are still fresh in my mind, than to invite my runner friends to give trail running a try. Start out on a well-groomed trail and work your way up to something more technical.

Still not sure? Here are eight reasons I think you should give it a try…

McAfee Knob off the Appalachian Trail

 

Eight Reasons To Try Technical Trail Running

1.  Trails are easier on the body – Soft dirt is more forgiving and provides more shock absorption than asphalt or concrete. Case in point, my knee had started bothering me about three weeks before my 25K trail race. Not once during the entire very hilly race did it bother me, and it wasn’t until I returned to my asphalt trails at home that I was reminded of my knee’s bad attitude.

2.  Uneven surfaces provide a great core and leg workout – When your body needs to make constant adjustments each time your foot hits the ground in order to keep you balanced and upright, your core and leg stabilizer muscles pitch in to help.

3.  Trails are often less crowded – Technical trails are often off the beaten path; and therefore, less congested. If you’ve had enough of sharing a popular trail with bikers and walkers on a busy weekend morning, go out into the country and find a trail!

4.  Nature is ready to show off – Depending on the time of year, trees might be showing off magnificent blossoms or brilliant multi-colored leaves. Trail running might also treat you to views of young fox kits or bear cubs playing in their natural habitat. Of course, what might be a positive aspect of trail running for one person, might be a negative for another.

5.  Breath-taking views await – After a challenging run along the Appalachian Trial, Bill and I were treated to the above view of the Catawba Valley from Mcafee Knob, just one of many stunning sights along the AT.

6.  Run where history was made – The relaxed pace of trail running, allows for stopping to read historic signs and markers. A little research once home or before the run, can help turn a training run into a learning experience.

7.  Trail running provides a mental break from daily stresses –  While soaking in the beauty of a sun rising over a mountain or dew dripping from elaborate spider webs, it’s hard to worry about work or stressful family situations.

8.  The people are friendlier – Trail running is relaxing and relaxed people are happy, making for much friendlier people with which you’ll be sharing the trail!

 

Do you enjoy trail running? How about technical trails? 

 

Grab My Button!

Deb Runs


Next Month’s Wednesday Word:  Dedicated