Have you decided to give trail running a go?

Becoming a trail runner has many benefits, including getting in better health, improving your mentality and happiness, and getting to see more of the world around you.

But if you’re just starting out, there are some important things you need to think about, such as choosing the right clothing and shoes, setting your pace and how often you should run.

At The Running Outlet, we’re passionate about encouraging new trail runners to pursue their new interest safely.

Here are our top trail running tips for anyone starting out:

Invest in the right clothing & accessories

Of course, there are some things that come naturally the more trail runs you go on, such as stamina and performance.

However, trail running becomes more enjoyable and bearable in those early stages if you have the clothing and accessories to help you.

This includes specific trail running shoes which have been designed for comfort when running on trail terrains, and specialist clothing that doesn’t rub on your skin when you sweat.

Another thing to remember: If you’re going to be trail running at night, you will want to consider buying high visibility clothing for extra safety.

Items you will need for your first trail run:

• Moisture-wicking top and bottoms

• Sturdy, comfortable running shoes

• A transportable water bottle

• Sunglasses if running in summer

• An armband for vital medical cards

• Earphones if you like to run with music

• Windbreaker or a lightweight raincoat

Remember to treat your body kindly

Mental perseverance is important… but it can only get you so far.

You need to fuel your body with the necessary nutrition if you want to successfully go on regular trail runs.

You should be having at least 5 portions of fruit and veg a day, and ideally 6-8 glasses of water to keep you hydrated.

Some food foods to eat before a trail run which boost your energy are:

Bananas

Oats

Dark chocolate

Whole grain pasta

Plain yoghurt.

Aim for consistency over frequency

It can be tempting to try and push your body as hard as possible when you first start out as a trail runner but in fact this can do more damage than good.

Pushing yourself too far can be disheartening if you aren’t hitting the pace you want and may also lead to serious injury, which could stop you running for weeks, months or even years!

Instead, keep in mind that consistency in your trail running routine is more important than the frequency that you go on your runs.

A consistent routine of 2 trail runs a week is better than a relentless 7-day streak because you give your body time to recover.

Consider a trail running partner

The early days of embarking on any sport are critical, and the same goes for trail running.

While some enjoy the solitude that trail running provides, others need motivation to keep it up.

If this sounds like you, consider finding a trusty trail running partner that can inspire and encourage you.

This could be your partner, family or friends, or you could even look for a local trail running club to join.

Research trails ahead of time

The thrill of starting trail running is that you get to explore new areas while keeping fit.

But it’s really important that you don’t attempt to run a trail blind.

Not only is researching a trail ahead of time safer for you, but it also allows you to better plan out your run.

For instance, identify where you can stop for a break if you need to, as well as any amenities and areas where you can seek help if necessary.

Shops, hotels, pubs, cafes and tourist centres are notable places to look out for.

There are also several different types of trail, including footpaths, dirt paths, sand paths, woodland paths, and more.

When researching for trails local to your area:

• Consider the time of day you intend to run

• Look at the amenities spread throughout the trail

• Read reviews of previous trail runners if available

• Do a trial walk of the trail before embarking on a run

• Inform a point of contact of the location of the trail

Don’t give up after the first trail

If your first trail run doesn’t go as you anticipated, don’t let it put you off!

Perseverance is crucial for trail runners, and it’s only by persevering that you get better and are able to push yourself more.

Carrying on with trail running allows you to naturally develop a tolerance for this type of exercise if you’re new to it, and in time you’ll notice the way your body responds positively as opposed to negatively.

It’s a process which takes time!

Shop at The Running Outlet today

Whether you’re just starting out on your trail running journey or you’re a seasoned trail runner, The Running Outlet is the best place to shop for all your trail running clothes, shoes and accessories.

We stock products for men, women and junior runners, meaning the whole family can enjoy time out together on the trail.

Browse our range of products today to find your next investment in trail running as a hobby, daily exercise, or brand new way of life.