When I first got into trail running this was a concept that confused me a bit. The sport was called trail running and yet I encountered people walking in the first race I competed in. It took me a while to realize that running up steep hills burned way more energy than walking with no obvious speed advantage.
Trail runners do walk, especially when going up steep hills. Most trail runners are able to power-hike up long steep hills at virtually the same speed as they would run. By walking steep hills it saves energy so that trail runners can run faster over the top of the hill and down the other side.
Let’s look more closely at why walking is a good strategy for trail runners and how you can use it to improve your performance on long, hilly trails.
Do Trail Runners Walk?
Even the most popular and super-fast trail runners walk during race events or training. Why? It is because walking is a very crucial part of trail running, and other forms of running as well.
Walking is essential for the health, safety, speed, efficiency, and success of every trail runner. Without it, runners will find it unlikely to finish every race or activity without any problems or injuries.
Even if walking on trails is not always featured on magazines or shows, it is an important part of trail running because not only is it imperative, but it also makes every trail runner even greater in what he/she does.
What Is Trail Running?
Trail running is a mode of sport or activity that combines running with hiking. It also involves walking, especially on risky trails and terrains.
Many runners all over the world find trail running very exciting, challenging, and rewarding because it is usually done in amazing and stunning places in different countries.
Why Is Walking Essential To Trail Running?
Walking gives runners a much-needed health break.
Even the best of the best trail runners need to walk in order to avoid health risks or injuries. Walking does not make trail runners less of who and what they are.
It is needed especially in uneven trails where running would be riskier.
No smart trail runner would ever run a dangerous trail. Walking is recommended on risky paths because it is much safer for the runner.
Walking allows runners to improve speed, regain power, and prolong endurance.
If a trail runner pushes his/her body to run all throughout a 100-mile race, what do you think will happen? Will he/she finish or survive the race without any injuries or problems?
It gives runners the chance to really appreciate the location or environment of the trail run.
Trail running is very fulfilling because this sport or activity is usually done in breathtaking natural environments. And these places are best appreciated whenever trail runners walk.
The Importance Of Mindful Walking And Trail Running
When a trail runner is on the move, he/she should not be just walking or running without any strategy, awareness, or careful thought. This could lead to injuries, accidents, and other unfavorable situations.
Mindful walking and trail running are very essential for the health, safety, and success of every trail runner. Since trails are often rugged, unpaved, and challenging, trail runners should always be mindful of what, where, and how they walk or run.
Not only will mindful walking and trail running elevate the safety of runners during their activity, but it can also lead to a successful, injury-free run at the end of the line. Therefore, these should be done by every trail runner, whether they are a beginner or already a winning marathoner.
Run. Walk. Rest. Repeat.
Trail runners are not just defined by their running technique, speed, endurance, and finishing time. They are also defined by how they embrace and employ walking as a way to improve and accomplish their trail runs.