Welcome to another edition of Tuesday Topics.  This week we’re talking about trail running.  I’ve done a few runs here and there but nothing compared to what other runners do.  Trail running isn’t for everyone and that is OK.  Let’s discuss!

Tuesday Topics-34

This week’s Tuesday Topic:  Trail running – yes or no?  You can write about this topic or feel free to post any running related blog post.  Remember to link up with Kim and Zenaida!  Visit at least two of the other linked posts – the more the merrier!  Remember to come back for later linkers!

For years I’ve been a road runner.  Sometimes I drive to the lakefront and run there.  Sometimes I run by myself and other times with a group.  The past couple of years I’ve been running by my house.  To me it is much more convenient and easier.  

A few years ago I started going to Waterfall Glen.  It is perfect for hill training because as you know Chicago is FLAT.  I go there too to get a break from running on the pavement.  My favorite time to go is in the Fall.  Not only do I love Fall running but going there is beautiful.  The trees and the leaves give me a peaceful feeling.  Oh, and I also love going after it rains.  The smell of the dirt!!  There is something about it that I love.  I know, it sounds weird.

I realize it isn’t a difficult terrain.  It is still smooth.  The hills is what makes it challenging hence providing a great workout.  

Besides the softer terrain, other benefits of trail running include: strengthens the legs; it is quieter; reduces the risk of injury; high quality air; and improves your mood.

I am planning to run at Waterfall Glen more often.  These past few months haven’t been going well (running wise) and I hope things are better the rest of the year. 

If you need trail running shoes, Wendy wrote a great review of the Brooks Cascadia 14 XT.  Check it out!

Trail running might not be for everyone.  That is OK.  Now trail racing is something I don’t think I will ever do.  You?

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20 Comments on Tuesday Topics: Yes to trail running!

  1. I have done some trail running (and racing), but it does take an effort to make to make it happen, in terms of driving to an actual trail LOL It is an awesome experience, though, and a great way to enhance one’s running experience!

  2. I love trail running, especially in the forest! But when a trail gets too technical, I become fearful of falling and slow down.
    Love your photos! The smell of the dirt, the clean air and the peacefulness – I agree, it’s so relaxing to run in a forest!

    • Oh I agree with you. I am also scared of falling. Luckily where I go isn’t technical but that does not mean I won’t fall. The smell of the dirt!! Love it!

  3. I do enjoy trails. And there are quite a few nearby but I prefer company. So I don’t go often.

    Contrary to what Judy said, we do have a lot of nice trails in our area. Read my post.

    Racing. Nope.

  4. I’m new to trail running but I’ve fallen head over heels in love (figuratively!). We’ll see how I feel after my hot trail race in Florida this weekend, tho!

    We sure are lucky to have so many trails by us!

    • How close is the one you go to? I wished Waterfall Glen was closer. Yeah, sometimes I get lazy to drive. But I agree that we are lucky we have so many by us.

  5. I’ve done quite a few trail races but have struggled to feel comfortable. I’m always so focused on pace and worry about obstacles I haven’t even encountered yet! BUT although I think I’ll always be a road runner at heart, something keeps drawing me to trails and at my trail race this past weekend, I felt so happy and content on the trail. I felt I finally learn to let go and things just felt easier although I was out there for around 2h45min.

Thank you for your comment!