Shannon

I'm no runner, but on occasion while I'm hiking I encounter trail runners, exchanging nods and/or smiles as they pass. I was curious how many trail runners, if any, we have here? I also have some questions to pose to a seasoned trail runner, if any are about...

Ever since my knee surgery in February, I've been more intrigued by trail running -- something I wasn't at all interested in prior to my injury. I was one of those purists who felt trail runners were "missing out" on the trail. Now I realize that it's not so much missing out as seeing it in a different way. For myself, I don't think trail running is something I can do -- at least, not in the way serious trail runners do. I do find if I jog at all, I prefer soft (natural) surfaces to pavement. Pavement hurts this new knee, still.

With exercise now a much more important part of my life, thanks to my "expensive new knee" to take care of (ACL reconstruction and cartilage repair), I pay more attention to all kinds of exercise activities.

If you're a trail runner, am I right that the primary attraction is exercise, but the pleasant environs, challenging terrain and lack of vehicle exhaust, is what brings you out on the trails? Do you also run on pavement, and trails just help "break up" your running regimen? Or are you strictly a trail runner?

How about a question to all the hikers and backpackers -- what's your feeling when you see a trail runner? Mine has always been, "Wow, I don't know how he/she's doing that." or "Don't I feel a little silly. Here I am with my camera gear and a CamelBak, and he/she's running... with no gear whatsoever!" Of course, a runner's done with a 6 mile trail far faster than a hiker or backpacker, so it makes sense we'd need a ready supply of water and other basic gear.

Just some thoughts that popped into my head. I think this CNN article entitled, "Runners find union of exercise, nature", sparked the thought.

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- Shannon Moore
Your Host @ WildTexas.com
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lost_but_found

My thoughts on trail runners are those guys/gals are respectable! I love to go backpacking and have spent up to a week at a time on a trail. But these trail runners will do the same trail I do in three days in just one day! That's pretty amazing. It must teach amazing foot-eye coordination because there are so many "obstacles" on a trail that could potentially be a twisted or broken leg.

I have never had any problems with encountering trail-runners along the trail either. They are typically very nice and will go around me. So, in summary, I truly respect the ability of trail-runners and have no problems sharing the trail with them, but I think I'll stick to walking myself!!

copuswalker

Yeh but they never stop and talk??

And who wants to do a trail in one day when you could spend three?

I'd say they are a weird group

__________________
There are those that hike and those that don't and those that say they will but won't.

Shannon

True. Of course, that's what non-hikers and non-backpackers say about us, you know. Same for non-pilots and non-aviation enthusiasts when Justin and I regale folks with stories and photos from our latest General Aviation flight.

__________________
- Shannon Moore
Your Host @ WildTexas.com
http://www.twitter.com/ageekgal

matt

I guess I'm one of those 'weirdos.' I love to run trails for the very reasons Shannon listed. It's a unique way to enjoy the solitude of the trail. I also am an avid backcountry backpacker (I currently live in Montana but am moving back home to Texas this summer). Both hiking and trail running have their attactions to me...however, they both involve enjoying the outdoors. Among other things, this means being away from exhaust fumes, traffic, etc.

Caledonia

Running the street is not only tough on the joints, but it's dangerous. Running the trails at Barton Creek greenbelt has kept me from getting bored and I'm in Austins most beautiful surroundings.
Anybody else have a favorite spot for endless trails?

Retro51

I jog and walk and do other exercises (jump rope, for example) often. I try to jog on places like the Trinity Trail from Benbrook, or up by University in Fort Worth, or Forest Park by TCU. I also jog in parks, running around the trees. My experience running on hiking trails has been limited, but I see it as another fun thing to do. I have wanted to go on a trail running excursion, but usually wind up biking in that case. It depends on your goals - if you're mixing jogging and exploring, it's a good option. If you are more interested in the hiking, or going with non-runners, you just hike. Also, if you have to pack in your gear, you would just hike.
If you want an option to further your exercise, and mix it with hiking, you might consider Nordic Walking or hiking with HeavyHands - Google either one for more information. I walk/jog/exercise with HeavyHands almost everyday, and have used them when hiking. You get many of the same benefits as jogging, without actually running. You get some benefit with Nordic Walking poles, with the added stability, especially up/down hill.
BTW trail running is usually one of the more difficult activities, because of the hills and rough terrain, so they are due respect. They obviously are out to enjoy nature, since otherwise they would just run on streets or a track.