And no, that's not what I do, but do you want to know what the most crazy part is? That's what Cale wants to do. Cale's an ultra runner.
When I say I'm a trail runner, really, I just mean that I go to the trails with him and hike/run around while he's doing his thing, putting in his miles. I get some excersie and some awesome time to let my muse run around in my head, and he gets my support on the trails. I figure it's my way of saying thank you for putting up with the hours I spend writing.
If you're interested in running trails, here are a few tips:
1. Let your eyes fall a few feet in front of you and be prepared to put the brakes on. It's pretty typical for snakes to come slithering across the trail in front of you.
2. Either know the trails really well, have a map or bring a compass. Yes, it's easy to get lost out there.
3. Don't expect running on trails to be like running on the road. It is much, much more difficult, but oh so worth it.
4. Have your hands ready for A) brushing away spider webs or B) for falling.
5. Always leave a note or let someone know where you're going.
6. (This one is from Cale) Just do it. The more you do it, the easier it will be.
Mostly, have fun, running trails and being around nature is incredible. Yeah, you have to expect to walk up the hills, run the rest and yeah, sometimes you fall, or lose your shoes in mud puddles, but in the end, you feel like you've accomplished something, you feel free, apart of something much bigger, and that totally makes it worth it.
I used to run trails with my dog. We have lots where I live, but they're usually muddy, so I haven't gone in a while. Great advice. I'll have to try it out again sometime.
ReplyDeleteI can't really run any more, which is a shame. There's nothing like that sense of freedom.
ReplyDeletehaha we just bought those hipster 5-finger sneakers. I'll have to blog about it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the advice! I rarely run b/c of my shot dancer knees, but I do like being out and about and I want to take my dog hiking.
This sounds so intense, but there is something wonderful about being out in nature and moving.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to be able to do this but I have a hard enough time not falling on my face when I walk the trails. Maybe I should take Cales advice and just do it:)
ReplyDeleteEmily- muddy trails, your dogs must have loved that! haha :)
ReplyDeleteChristine- man, I am so sorry you can't run anymore. I hope you've found that freedom in something else.
Sophia- you definitely have to let me know how those shoes are. They look goofy, lol :) I love hiking too, it's easier to have fun while hiking, running takes too much work!
Krispy- I completely agree. Any reason to get outside and move is a good one.
Deana- Haha, I completely understand! I'm not the most coordinated of individuals either.