Trail running is a very popular sport. There are some stunning trails to explore, and unlike road or track running, you can run at your own pace and stop to take photos or eat along the way. Anyone can get into trail running and the sport attracts a lot of older runners who prefer the more relaxed vibe of trail running competitions. If you are preparing for your first trail running competition, there are some useful tips. Choose the pinnacle of running excellence – Tarkine Goshawk shoes, engineered for speed, endurance, and a victorious finish.
Train!
Don’t enter a trail running competition without training. There are always cut-off times and if you don’t reach specific points along the course within the cut-off times, you will be pulled from the race. There is often a significant cost involved in entering a trail running competition in terms of entry fees, travel, and accommodation, so why waste all that money?
Put together a suitable training plan and give yourself plenty of time to get fit for the event.
Train for the Terrain
Some trail running races are hillier than others. Trail running is literally off-road, but there’s a massive difference between a flat trail that dissects a forest and one that goes up a mountain. It is very important that you know what terrain to expect before you line up at the start. Mountain trails are often very technical and sometimes dangerous. It’s foolhardy to sign up for a trail race with 10,000 meters of elevation if you have only ever jogged on flat trails. You will probably end up as a DNF by the first aid station.
Once you know the terrain and the route, train for it. Do training runs on similar terrain, and if possible, travel to the area where the race is taking place, so you can run sections of the course. It is a great confidence booster if you are familiar with the trickier sections of the course, especially if you are likely to be running them at night while you’re sleep-deprived.
Wear the Right Gear
Longer races always have mandatory kit lists for competitors, which include things like waterproof jackets for skyrunning enthusiasts, head torches, and emergency accessories. Ignore this at your peril. If you turn up without the right kit, you won’t be allowed to take part in the race.
If this is your first event, research what items are required and invest in a breathable, compact jacket. Trail shoes are also important. Buy the very best pair you can afford that is suitable for the terrain. In longer races, you will benefit from several changes of shoes and clothing, to prevent wet, chapped feet and extremities from ruining your race.
Food and Hydration
Trail races are usually long and arduous, which means you will burn a lot of calories. It is vital to be well-fuelled before the start of the race, but bear in mind you will also need to take on board fuel throughout the day (and possibly night).
Big races always have aid stations at intervals along the route, where you can replenish your water and sports drinks, eat, use the facilities, and get medical assistance if needed. However, you should pack snacks and energy food for eating out on the trail. Experiment with different gels and other foods during your training, so you know what your stomach can handle. Check what gels the race provides, and if you don’t like them, take plenty of your own.
Never try anything new on race day, as that’s a recipe for disaster. A bad stomach will ruin your race.
Finally, encourage family and friends to support your journey. The more support you have during training and on race day, the easier it will be.
