In preparation for my Ultra in October, today was Day #1 of trail training at Wekiva Springs National Park. I had not run in a wooded area since I was a teen back in PA. Back in the day, running in the woods to get to the coal banks was a popular activity. As was turning various shades of black and gray.

Today’s run was unique. I had some assumptions and guesses, all of which proved to be incorrect. Firstly, I anticipated trail running to be much more difficult compared to road running. This was really not the case. In fact, in many ways it proved easier. The softer surface was much easier on the joints and body as a whole and the canape of trees was a welcome shade most of the way.

In addition, according to my handy dandy heart rate monitor, I burned only 56 more calories during this 10 mile run as compared to the road. Basically 2 bites of a candy bar. It was surprising as there were constant changes in direction, both vertically and side to side. With the exception of some relatively straight patches, it was mostly running and shuffling up and down and both sides of the trail, over stumps and around fallen branches.

The views were dramatic. No less than 15 deer were my new “friends” at various points along the path. An assortment of melodies from birds too numerous to name also provided welcomed entertainment. Add some rabbits and a couple of snakes and it was definitely a visual treat.

There certainly were challenges as well. Every 500 feet or so, I had to unwrap a spider’s web from various upper body parts. Bug spray would have been a really good idea also. Sun glasses too. Not to protect one’s eyes from the sunlight but from the gnats and other flying critters that had a great affinity for my cornea.

The biggest difference between trail and road running is the social aspect. On the road, I always feel connected to people. Seeing our Tri & Run friends or favorite Muddy Buddies or even strangers helps me to realize that there always is a bigger reason to run than just oneself. There is a common bond that joins us and  feels really good to be a part of this. The opposite is the case for trail running.

Trail running is great:

  1. If you live and work in Manhattan and need to get away from it all – to balance life or
  2. You are an introvert. Not necessarily a unibomber-type personality but unlike most road runners, anti-social is commonplace in this crowd.

I have 4 or 5 more practice runs before the Ultra and have to say, I really prefer the road more traveled.