I take it easier on myself when transitioning outdoors. Treadmill pace doesn't always translate to outdoor pace, due to wind, hills, etc. Focus on effort, not pace.
I've seen a few of the ones mentioned, but one that really stands out to me is 'Desert Runners'. It's about a group of runners taking on the 4 Deserts Grand Slam, which is just insane. What I liked about it is that it's not just about the running, but about the people and their stories. It's a great reminder that running is just one part of who we are. Plus, the scenery is just stunning. Definitely worth a watch!
I've found that a 2-week taper with a gradual decrease in mileage works best for me. I aim to reduce my weekly mileage by 20-30% each week, with the last 3-4 days being almost complete rest. This allows my body to recover without feeling too flat on race day. Of course, everyone's different, but this approach has worked well for me in the past.
I've tried barefoot running and it's not for me. While it does strengthen your feet, I found it too harsh on my joints. Plus, you need to be careful about where you run. I'll stick with my trusty shoes, thanks.
For socks, I prefer Injinji toe socks to prevent blisters. Pants-wise, I like Salomon's Trail Pants for their flexibility and water resistance. As for tops, a breathable, moisture-wicking tee like the ones from Smartwool does the trick. Safety-wise, I always carry a small first aid kit with blister care and a lightweight headlamp, just in case. Oh, and don't forget a hydration pack or handheld water bottle!
Great read! Love seeing athletes like Keely Hodgkinson push through setbacks and come out on top. Her perseverance is inspiring to all of us runners out there.
Tough break for Sam Kendricks. Missing the Olympics due to Covid must be devastating. Hopefully he can bounce back for the next big competition.
Exactly! It's amazing how often just showing up can turn into a great run. And yeah, all the motivational fluff can be overwhelming. Sometimes simplicity is the best motivator.
Not really running related, but a fun quiz nonetheless. Good distraction from a tough training week!
Totally agree. I've been there too, where the pressure to perform starts affecting your mental game. It's refreshing to see someone acknowledging the darker side of competitive running. You're right, it's not all sunshine and rainbows, but it's worth pushing through the struggles.
2-3 long runs should be enough, depends on your current fitness level and weekly mileage.
That's a great point about focusing on training! Have you also tried making a pre-race routine to distract yourself from nerves?
Biggest difference: softer surfaces and varied terrain. Trails can be technical, so focus on footwork and agility. Hills are steeper and longer, so incorporate hill repeats into your training. Start with shorter XC races to get a feel for it. And don't be afraid to walk if needed!
Trail running's a whole different beast, ain't it? Roots and rocks can be tough to navigate. For me, it's all about slowing down and picking my feet up. Try to focus on the trail 10-15 feet ahead and anticipate the obstacles. It's better to take smaller, quicker steps than to try to bound over stuff. And don't be afraid to walk if you need to - it's not a road race, it's about enjoying the trail.
I've run in the rain plenty of times and it's not so bad once you get used to it. Just wear breathable gear, avoid cotton, and try to find a route with some tree cover to minimize the rain in your face. It's actually kinda refreshing. Plus, fewer people on the roads so you've got the place to yourself.