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Jay M.
Jay M. Sendmail

Is it ok to do marathon long runs on trails?

asked 9 months ago | Report

Usually do my long runs on the road, but I'm kind of in a funk on my normal long run routes. Thinking about switching it up tomorrow and heading to the trails tomorrow to spice it up. Opinions?

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  • Pamela S H.
    Pamela S H. Sendmail

    I think you are actually better off doing long runs on a trail. It takes far more concentration and agility, making for a smoother marathon on pavement. Also, long trail runs, unless you are like me and tend to trip, are easier on your body. It is a great way to make the runs more interesting - enjoy your run!!!!

    answered 9 months ago |Report

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  • Gil R.
    Gil R. Sendmail

    Most ultras are on trails. I think it's illegal to run any farther than 26.2 on pavement anyway. If it's your first trail run, I would do a bit less miles than you would have done paved, especially if it's a technical trail.

    answered 9 months ago |Report

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  • Chris K.
    Chris K. Sendmail

    Oh yeah, trail run will be fun. Harder to find water, but you'll enjoy the varied terrain. Chris Kelley - Framingham.

    answered 9 months ago |Report

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  • Dan M.
    Dan M. Sendmail

    Like the others have said, trail running is different. You may want to plan on running by time rather than distance. If your normal long run is 2:00 then plan on that time or a little longer, rather than going out to do 14-16 miles.

    answered 9 months ago |Report

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  • Blake P.
    Blake P. Sendmail

    Trail running cured my shin splints, so I am all for it. I do laps of a long-ish trail and leave food and water at the start and hydrate each lap. Works for me.

    answered 8 months ago |Report

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  • Paul
    Paul Sendmail

    As others have mentioned the time to cover a certain distance is a lot more dependent on the terain and the state of the trail. When running in a new area, or for your first few outings doing an out and back bassed on time can be a good aproach.

    Running on trails will work your legs in different ways, you may find you have DOMS in hithertoo un noticed muscles after your first longer trail runs.

    Trails can be easier on your legs, or harder, especially if there is some steep descents. so take it easy.

    Finally you deffinately do NOT want to give up all road running if you plan on racing on roads, road racing has its own unique requirements.

    answered 8 months ago |Report

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  • Mark M.
    Mark M. Sendmail

    Trail running can be a fun alternative, but don't get discouraged if you are running way slower than you normally do on the roads, depending on how technical the trail is.

    answered 8 months ago |Report

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