I might be slowly converting into a trail runner… crazy, right?  First, let me just say that meeting up and joining a local running club is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. As outgoing of a person that I am, I’m generally pretty shy and it takes a lot for me to “bite the bullet” and take the plunge.  I’ve been following a local running club for months now on Facebook, and after a push from a friend, I decided to join them on a weekly meetup about a month ago.  I’ve been running with them ever since and the experience has been nothing but rewarding.  So do yourself a favor and find a local running club and JOIN!

For the last 4 weeks, I’ve made it out for the local club’s run through a 7-mile course through a wooded and decently groomed trail. 7 miles seems like a lot, but when running with some new “friends” it generally doesn’t feel like very long. Plus there is something pretty satisfying about seeing the trails through the eyes of a Garmin map with each mile-marker proudly displayed. Our trail run almost looks like the great lakes when mapped out or a sad European Country.

Also, when it comes to trail running, I have noticed it’s less jarring on my body compared to road running.  I can run 7 miles through the trails in the mornings and function like a normal person the rest of the day.  Also, the day after I’m not super sore and generally find myself looking forward to more running! Also, there are several articles that will attest that trail running is better for you than road running (Runner’s World being a source for most of the said articles).

Needless to say, I’m hooked, I enjoy the group, the trails, and the general “no fuss” about my pace, or splits. Trail running is pretty awesome, and I would highly recommend it.