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is ideal for a number of reasons and it’s important to invest in your health using this form of cardio. Loads of people hate the idea of running until they take a look at trail running.

Here’s more on why more and more people are starting to implement trail running into their routine.

1) Engaging

The first thing a person will notice is how engaging the running can be. Hopping onto a treadmill isn’t going to do the same as it tends to get boring after a while.

The same doesn’t apply to trail running because you are outdoors. You are able to run through different areas and still get maximum value for your time.

2) Different Terrains

The treadmill has one type of surface and it can lead to inconsistencies in how a person develops. It can also pamper the body in a way that takes away from your effort.

To ensure that is not the case, it’s time to look into trail running. This is the type of running that keeps things simple and ensures people are able to get more value out of their time.

For example, a trail is going to have various terrains with some areas being bumpy while others being flat. This also includes potential inclines that pop up throughout the session.

3) Psychological Boost

Trail running is one of the better exercises in the world because of its psychological impact. Most people look at the exercise by assessing its physical qualities but it’s the psychological boost that’s impressive. People start to notice how refreshing it can be to head out onto a trail while running.

It is an experience that is memorable and brings along with it new experiences that are truly remarkable. You are able to soak it all in while seeing physical benefits too.

4) Great Physical Test

The physical impact trail running has is second to none because of how comprehensive it is. A person will be able to set up a short route through the trail and end up with an experience that is exceptional. You are able to get the heart racing while making sure the fat drips away. This is an excellent way to feel better about your health and how well your body is doing.

Most people will also notice how physically stronger they get as time goes on. This is what makes it loads of fun for the average person heading out.

5) Improves Long-Term Health

It’s one thing to see a boost now and another to see it over the long-term. There are situations where a person may go ahead and assume everything is going to work out when that is not the case. Trail running is a great way to improve one’s long-term health while ensuring things progress as they need to. This is what ensures everything works out as planned and leads to the type of results necessary in this day and age. The body is going to get strong with trail running and it’s also going to lead to an increase in stamina. This is one of the primary things people notice as soon as they head down this path.

Trail running is great for so many reasons and it often comes down to understanding the health-related benefits. Anyone that is on the lookout for a high-quality cardio exercise needs to put this on their list. it is great for the body and is going to bring along with it a number of new memories. This is the charm of trail running when you start to enjoy it wholeheartedly.

Should you, or shouldn’t you? That has become one of the biggest questions for trail runners when it comes to using poles. We are going to explore some of the advantages and disadvantages of using poles so you can decide if they are right for you.

Whether hiking poles are a good or bad ida depends a lot on where you are going hiking or trail running. For instance the more vert you will be experiencing the more likely poles will be a good idea.

For example if you are running through the Alps most people you encounter will have poles with them, however if you were exploring some of the Table Mountain hiking routes in Cape Town you probably do not need them.

The Advantages Of Using Poles

Reduced Leg Fatigue (Sometimes)

Removing some of the load off of your legs is one of the big advantages of using poles. When you are climbing and descending slopes, your poles can take some of the load off of your legs helping you to keep your leg muscles fresh for later in the race.

TIP: This advantage decreases when you are running on a flat trail. You will be more efficient running without using the poles when you hit a flat area. If the course you are scheduled to run switches between climbs and flat sections, you should use collapsible poles so you can get them out of the way during the flatter areas.

Better Posture

Do you tend to hunch your back during your climbs or when you get tired on the trail? Using poles helps you maintain better posture which reduces back strain and keeps you more efficient. Better posture and efficiency allows you to utilize those last bits of energy to finish a race instead of scrubbing out.

Balance And Trail Confidence

Your trail poles provide you with four-point balance when negotiating steep, rocky, and slippery areas of the trail. You can plant the tips to give you added grip while getting through those difficult areas, which provides you with confidence to move faster instead of dropping to a snail’s pace.

TIP: Make sure you keep the poles out of the path of your feet while descending. You don’t want to be accelerating down a hill and end up rolling down the hill because you tripped yourself with the poles.

Defensive Tool

Let’s be honest. So many trail runners have started using poles that sometimes it is challenging to avoid tripping on them out of the starting gate. Using your own poles lets you carve out a little extra space and knock away intruding poles. Just remember, you need to keep your poles out of their way, too.

The Disadvantages Of Running Poles

Added Weight On The Trail

Running poles add a little weight to what you are carrying on the trail. Cheap poles are weaker and weigh more. Good poles are lightweight and strong but still add a little weight. While the few extra ounces may not seem like much at the beginning of the race, it could feel burdensome towards the end.

TIP: Pay attention to the type of trail you are running on today. Does it really require the use of the poles, or is it fairly level? Decide if you are going to use the poles for this race based on the advantages for this specific trail. There is no reason to carry extra weight when it is unnecessary.

Running Poles Can Get In The Way

Your first race using poles is going to feel clumsy. There is no way around that unless you train extensively using your poles. Your poles are going to get in front of your feet, bounce into a tree, or get caught in a patch of roots. It is inevitable until you become efficient using the poles. Even then, there will be times the poles are more of a hindrance than an aid.

TIP: Collapsible poles can be carried in one hand to keep them out of your way. Some poles can be stashed in a small pack strapped on your front or back.

The only sure way to know if running poles will help you is to try them. Every race more runners are finding the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, at least on steeper trails.

Exercise can provide a number of health benefits that can help the development of the body, as well as improve brain function and enhance emotional well-being. There are different types of exercises, but the greatest problem in exercising is being consistent. One great requirement for any exercise to be consistent is to avoid monotony, and enjoy what you are doing. Trail running is one such exercise that can bring its practitioner a lot of benefits.

To start with, trail running requires nothing more than a good pair of running shoes and is thus an exercise that costs next to nothing. You can splurge on the best-branded shoes, but it is not strictly necessary. You may at the best need to carry a bottle of water if you plan to run for a long time each day you are out running. It requires you to only find a place to run and helps you to avoid costly memberships of gyms.

There is no particular skill that you need for trail running, and it is what every able-bodied person is able to do. Running strengthens the cardiovascular system and the heart, will help to improve the density of your bones of the hips and legs and can go a long way in helping you to maintain an ideal weight. Trail running is kinder on the feet than road running, as the surfaces on which you run are kinder to the feet.

Trail running can require you to climb hills and both uphill running and downhill running places different loads on your feet, both of which can be highly beneficial. As you are running on surfaces that keep varying, you are required to be more agile and better coordinated and the constant challenge to maintain balance on trails can keep you mentally alert and aware. It is a form of green exercise as you are outdoors and in the open air. Exercising in the outdoors can help you sleep better as your circadian rhythm is optimized. It is an exercise that is always enjoyable and satisfying.

In trail running, you have to run on hard mud, flat tracks, slopes and hills and this lead to a greater group of muscles being used so that your core, feet, and ankles are stabilized. When you run on roads or tarmac your foot strikes hits the same muscles again and again, but in trail running every stride may have to be different and this spreads the impact over a greater range of muscles. As a result, individual muscles and joints are subjected to lesser pressure, and you will be able to avoid shin splints.

Trail running takes you closer to nature, and this in itself boosts mental well being and lowers stress and anxiety. This can help you to maintain better health and probably also help you to live longer. Trail running can help you to lose 90 calories more per hour than other exercise forms, mainly because of the physical activity carried out on uneven terrain. You are constantly exposed to nature during this form of exercise, and will rarely remain depressed or have any negative brain activity.

Trails have a soft impact on the knees and this can benefit you by helping you to avoid injury. Your respiratory system benefits form trail running because you are always out in the fresh air. It is a form of running that is rarely monotonous, and you can always find more and more places to run. These workouts are stress-free, as you are not trying to avoid traffic or crowds as you have to when you run on the road.

Trail running is an exciting way of exercising that can help you to change the way you look at fitness

Trail runners will find nirvana in South Africa, with its varied terrain and beautiful panoramas. There are several trails in this nation that are suitable for runners of all skill levels, ranging from rocky beaches to hilly mountains. These are five trail running locations in South Africa that are a must-see since they offer breathtaking scenery together with a challenging course.

1. Cape Town’s Table Mountain

Location: Cape Town, Western Cape Trail

Highlights: World-famous running destination Table Mountain offers a world-class backdrop to Cape Town.
Diverse Routes: With more than 350 miles of trails, runners can discover paths like the Pipe Track or the Platteklip Gorge, which is more difficult.
panoramic views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and surrounding hills can be found from the summit.

2. Drakensberg Mountains:

Location: KwaZulu-Natal Trail Highlights.

World Heritage Site: These paths provide a tour through a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are a part of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park.
Beautiful Terrain: The Drakensberg offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, from leisurely strolls through the foothills to strenuous climbs like the Thukela Gorge Trail.
Rich Biodiversity: The area’s abundance of plants and animals makes for a more enjoyable jog.

3. The Garden Route:

The Garden Route is located in the Western Cape. Its route highlights include its coastal beauty, with paths winding through woodlands, beside immaculate beaches, and along cliffs.
Range of Trails: The Garden Route Trail is a leisurely stroll, while the Otter Trail is more strenuous.
Plenty of Wildlife: Occasionally, runners may come across whales or other sea creatures like dolphins.

4. Cederberg Wilderness Area:

Western Cape Trail Highlights: Rugged Terrain: The Cederberg is renowned for its untainted, unspoiled vistas and provides a genuine wilderness experience.
Ancient Rock Art: Your run will have a historical touch because to the several locations in the area that display San rock art.
Rich Flora: The area is a component of the world’s richest plant kingdom, the Cape Floral Kingdom.

5. The Mountains of Hogsback:

Location: Trail at Eastern Cape Standouts:
Magical woodlands: With its verdant woodlands and ethereal ambiance, running in Hogsback is like entering into a fairy tale.
Waterfall Trails: Trails with refreshing pauses include the Madonna and Child Waterfall Trail.
Bird Watching: This region is a haven for birdwatchers and ideal for runners who enjoy the outdoors.

Why Does South Africa Offer Trail Running?

The trail running scene in South Africa offers more than just a strenuous physical challenge; it’s an opportunity to experience various ecosystems, connect with historic landscapes, and come across rare species. These locations provide an unmatched combination of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty, regardless of your level of experience with hiking.

Getting Ready for Your Run:

Before heading out onto the trails, make sure you’re properly prepared:

Verify the weather: The weather can be erratic, particularly in hilly regions.
Get Ready: Essentials include a hydration pack, suitable gear, and good trail running shoes.
Remain secure: Always let someone know where you’re going and when you anticipate to be back.

Getting Around:

South Africa has a number of transport options including air travel, lots of rental car options and bus travel which can be booked through online bus ticket platforms.

The trails in South Africa are journeys through a rich tapestry of landscapes, history, and culture, not merely paths through the natural world. Every stride has a tale to tell, whether you’re running by Table Mountain or along the breathtaking Garden Route coastline. So put on your running shoes and get ready to discover South Africa’s amazing and untamed world of trail running.