You’re passionate about running, but you’ve gotten used to it, and the exercises have become monotonous. When this happens to you, you may lose interest in running unless you decide to change.If you have lost your motivation to run, leaving the hustle and bustle of the urban jungle and starting trail running may be the perfect solution to regain your passion for running.
The changing terrain will test your physical condition. Still, you will be able to enjoy the beauty of the nature around you without any distractions (unless you decide to run while listening to your favorite podcast). Although it is a demanding sport, trail running can help you slowly regain your running momentum.
So,Why is trail running good for you? Here are some of the physical and mental benefits of trail running.
Table of Contents
12 Incredible Benefits of Trail Running
1.It Works Your Mind
It is known and PROVEN that running in forest is good for the mind. We release stress and tension more easily when we are outside than inside. Studies have repeatedly shown that spending time in the woods is beneficial for the brain and cognitive functions. And let’s not forget that admiring the landscapes is also pleasant.
In addition, the state of mind of trail running is very different from that of road racing. Runners often take a more serene and relaxed approach to counterbalance the ultra-competitive attitude of road racing. Trail running is often characterized by a more meditative practice than running or exercise. It allows one to come into harmony with nature, both physically and spiritually.
The trail gives you the possibility of forgetting the objectives and the statistics and reserving yourself moments of abundance, leaving the stress of the city behind you. Instead, see it as an opportunity to focus on your stride in an environment that regenerates your soul and quickens your spirit.
2. To Improve Your Physical Condition
Your body will benefit much more from training on a natural trail than on a sidewalk, so your muscles will become stronger.
Running on steep slopes improves leg speed and conditions muscles against impact.
You will be able to go faster and further, as you work your glutes and hamstrings more. You can even improve your stride length if the trail is very challenging (e.g., rocky).
Trail running gives runners a chance to experience nature without any distractions from man-made objects like cars or buildings which reduces stress levels significantly! It also allows them to appreciate how wonderful it feels when they run barefoot on dirt or grass (especially in areas where this is allowed!). Trail running naturally benefits people’s moods by making them feel much better than other kinds of exercise because of its meditative effects that originate from mindful movement out in natural surroundings.
3. Trial Running Good For Your Mental Health
Running outdoors can help improve your mental well-being, which will increase your motivation to keep going.
You know that running is a great way to stay in shape and lose weight, but you might not be aware of how healthy it can make you feel both mentally and physically. According to studies, exercising outside has been shown to have even more benefits than doing the same exercises indoors.Also It is a great way for stress relief as it allows you to let go of all those bad thoughts that have been bog.
4. To Improve Your Balance
Trail runners must adjust their support quickly over rough terrain, which means better balance, stability and a good sense of ground.
You will have to navigate through large rocks, downed trees and roots. This is a great workout for the upper body because it requires flexibility and strength in your arms. Trail runners must adjust their support quickly over rough terrain, which means better balance, coordination , agility and strength .
The changing terrain will test your physical condition. Still, you will be able to enjoy the beauty of the nature around you without any distractions (unless you decide to run while listening to your favorite podcast).
5. To Have the Impression of Living a Little Adventure
You will have the chance to discover new landscapes and meet different people during your trail running sessions,or go on a mini-adventure with your dog.There is nothing better than running with your best friend.You can enjoy the freshness of the outside world,and you will also be able to see different aspects of it through new eyes .You will find :”The trail has taken you and continues to take you to fantastic places – find yours!”
6. To Fight Boredom
Running on the same streets day in and day out can get boring. You may experience a drop in your motivation or even start dreading exercise. However, with the trail, you discover different landscapes, smells and terrains at every kilometre. Even on the same trails, things look different depending on the season, time and weather.
You will never know what you will see and experience, maybe the surprise is hidden in the next way.
7. To Reconnect With Nature
Today, around 80% of the American population lives in urban areas. Does this have anything to do with the benefits of trail running ?
Definitely!
Even if we live in cities, we all need some time every day to disconnect from the noise of modern life and recharge our batteries for a new day at work or university (or whatever your daily routine is).Trail running will give you that, because you will experience the feeling of being alive again.
Trail running can be a great way to compare yourself with nature and push yourself in order to achieve new goals. Even if trail running is less intensive than road running, it may still give you enough pleasure when compared with your regular jogging routine.
8. It’s Better For The Body
From a physical standpoint, the soft surfaces of most trails are better for your joints because they absorb some of the impacts. Suppose you stick to a moderate running pace. In that case, you can also reduce or even avoid repetitive ground impact injuries, which are very common in running.
In general, the trails vary considerably between them. Trail running is not as smooth as road running due to tree roots, rocks, leaves, branches and other obstacles to overcome or bypass. You will need to adapt and change your pace and stride to accommodate variations in the terrain.
From that perspective, trail running is a great way to develop your balance and strengthen muscle groups you’ve never used before. In addition, trail running allows your body to work in a more versatile way, as it has to tackle climbs and descents, higher altitude and rough terrain.
9. To Feel a Sense of Accomplishment
No matter where you run, workout always makes you feel great, but trail running is especially beneficial.It will give you a sense of achievement when you overcome the challenges of nature. You will feel proud when your body gets stronger and more flexible than before.
You can get rid of stress by running in nature, which is also an amazing benefit to trail running. It takes only 30 minutes for you to lower cortisol levels (stress hormones) after exercising outdoors, according to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Health Research in 2015.
10. It Makes You Fun
Let’s be honest. Pounding the sidewalk can get boring very quickly. Running on a trail, on the other hand, will unleash the child in you as you jump over rocks, cross rivers and navigate your way through the woods. It is easy for you to get distracted when running on track, but trail running can actually make your runs more fun.
11.Enjoy the Fresh Air
Less traffic, no exhaust fumes, running in nature is good for both the cardio and the lungs. Less exposure to pollution combined with a richer oxygen content from vegetation allows you to run with peace of mind.
12.Improved Running Technique
The many bends, uneven terrain and all kinds of obstacles along the trails force trail runners to use more forefoot and increase their pace by reducing the amplitude of their stride. This helps to develop a more efficient and energy efficient running technique.
The Bottom Line
The number one benefits of trail running is that it boosts our endurance, strength and power. It also reduces stress levels which can lead to depression . Furthermore, the activity helps in reducing weight by burning calories quickly compared to other types of exercising. Last but definitely not least, trail running is great for bonding time with your family or friends.
