Trail Running in the Mountains

This post is for the AliKats’ Dream of Mountains Challenge.

Pre-lockdown I loved nothing better than going for a run up the mountain. Trail running is still pretty new to me. I tend to run on the road because it means I can leave from my front door, do 5k and be back at my front door in 30 minutes.

Trail running however means I have to run a little further afield to get the trails. Usually about 2k before I get to the mountain path.

My first trail running experience was fabulous. I went with a group of amazing women who led the way and I was hooked! Since then I’ve been on a few solo trail runs and I love it.

That’s me in the forefront of my first trail run. Heading to the mountains instead of plodding around the streets of Cardiff brings me so much joy. For starters the views from the top are amazing.

Then there’s the wildlife you meet along the way.

It’s so peaceful to run surrounded by nothing by trees, wild rabbits, horses, cows and sheep! Everyone knows by now that exercise is good for your mental health and when you add in beautiful views and the sounds of the leaves swaying, it’s a perfect way to spend a morning.

Of course, what goes up must come down again.

Can you tell by the elation in my face how glad I am to be running downhill and not uphill any more?!

Yes, while I love the climb, running back again is so much more fun! I find it takes a lot more concentration than going up hill. After all, trying not to trip over tree roots, go too fast and tumble takes a lot of concentration!

During lockdown here in Wales, I wasn’t able to run in the mountains because it was just outside our local boundary, but not that I can head back to the mountains, that’s exactly what I’ll be doing!

A few tips if you’re keen to start trail running:

• Tell someone where you’re going. Even better, if you can, tell them your exact route and how long you think you’ll be.
• If you’re running on your own, take a handheld personal alarm for your own safety. This can be useful for lots of different reasons. For example, if you were to fall out of eyesight, you can sound your alarm.
• Bring a drink with you.
• Wear trail running shoes.
• Download the footpath app to your phone. If you get lost or are a little unsure of your route to start with, this app can help you to find your way.

Have you ever been trail running? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.