Just panicking because I’ve noticed that the 10k I’m planning to run on Sunday (my first ever, and a week ahead of schedule on Ju-Ju’s plan) has ‘trail’ in brackets. I usually run mostly on roads so there aren’t any nasty surprises underfoot. I know the site for the run, (but somehow didn’t think about it when I decided to participate!) and it has some very rocky inclines, stepped areas and narrow paths with massive tree roots sticking up. Am I out of my mind to try? I could just sign up for the 6k instead, which is a distance I know I can do, even around and over obstacles.
If I do try, what should I look out for (other than tree roots 😀) and how should I pace myself?
Getting nervous now...
Xxx
Written by
Lizzisforliving
Graduate10
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Be very careful about that run, you might be advisable to go to a sports shop and buy trail shoes, I understand that they are a little different to normal running shoes, seek professional advice, I hope you enjoy your run but take it easy.
I’ve done a few different parkrun courses which were trail or cross country type courses. Tree roots, rocks, narrowing paths and uneven surfaces are the main things to look out for. Just pace yourself comfortably.
I’ve entered a 13K Mountain trail run in November. Yikes!
If its dry your shoes will be fine for a one off, if its wet you'll need to be careful of slippery rocky surfaces. Tree roots, rocky, unstable, lumpy paths can put strain on the ankles so just take it steady and watch your footing. If you want to take b in views come to a full stop before looking around, most trips are when we try to do both at once!
If you know the area just go check it out. I'm sure you'll be fine unless it's super rugged and it will be a great experience for you 👍🏻😁
Thank you, that’s helpful. It’ll be dry (no rain forecast until later in the week) and mild with a gentle breeze. I’ll take your advice to watch where I’m going (I am rather naturally clumsy) and try to enjoy the experience.
Okay, I’m calmer now. I’ll sign up and pay now, then I can’t back out. 😀
Hi Lizzie - I think you will be fine. I run on mixed ground (road-grass-in woods- gravel) all the time in normal road trainers. Just slow down a bit in wooded areas, and watch the ground for the tree roots then you can pick up the pace on the clearer sections.
When I started to get fit I built up to walking 7 -10km each time and it took too long, so I started C25K thinking I could do more exercise in less time. Since I got the running bug, however, I’m spending more time than ever preparing to run, shopping for running gear, commenting on here (and even, sometimes, doing some actual running). Now, I’ve got to fit in a recce on a non-run day! Not sure when I’ll get any work done. 😂 Thanks, though. I’m sure it’s good advice. X
If in doubt ask. Some trail runs are easier than running on road, basically well made forest paths: others however are challenging - hilly, narrow, slippy, rocky, thorny - and need very great care. Check the actual route rather than the general area and email the organiser if in doubt.
My default shoe for mixed surfaces is a road shoe, as long as it is not wet or muddy. Looking at the forecast............it ain't gonna be dry anywhere in the UK.
If wearing road shoes, just be sensible on uneven, steep and loose surfaces and keep your pace well controlled.
Thank you, IannodaTruffe. I am lucky to live in the south of France, where we can get torrential rain and fierce mistral winds, but neither is forecast for Sunday.
Are ‘Road shoes’ my regular running shoes (Mizunas in my case)? I won’t wear my old, beloved On shoes because stones get stuck in the soles on rough surfaces.
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First 10k next Saturday 
10K trail run this morning
Trail running Vs road running?
