Guest Author - Jill Florio

Some of the Major Trail Running Hazards:

1. Scenery - seriously, keep your eyes on the trail, which are usually loose and rocky and steep. Stop if you must check out the birds, the deer, the views and hot mountain bikers speeding by. Trust me: it's easier to trip than you may imagine, when you choose to run the path less travelled by. I personally find hopping over obstacles fun. Sometimes I even use my hands to push off from trees leaning over especially rocky trails. Be creative! Just be careful!:)

2. Inadequate Hydration - it's your choice whether to run with water or not. If you go without, remember to hydrate well both prior to, and immediately after your run. Once you get that headache, you are already dehydrated.

3. Poorly-fitting shoes -Shoes that irritate your foot, provide inadequate ankle support or cushioning, or just don't fit (your feet are pinched or slip around inside) will make running the trails a miserable experienece.

4. Not taking the time to stretch - Stretching is so good for maintaining flexible muscles and keeping injury at bay.

Remember that some folks should start off a running program with a trip to their doctor, to get checked out heart and health-wise. A qualified physician can design a safe, effective workout that won't land you with an overuse injury. Be safe out there.

Trail Running Articles - This fun sport gets you out on the trails in a thrilling way, carrying so little gear you will feel like flying! A great alternative to dayhiking.

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