Trail Running is not just about running, in this sport several aspects need to be planned to have a good race. There are runners who make many basic mistakes when training or competing, and they are not necessarily technical. Read this list of common mistakes in Trail Running, pay attention because you will surely identify with some of them.
- Stretching: Muscle flexibility when running is essential to perform well and avoid injuries when doing trail running. Therefore, if you want to have better performance and improve your agility, you must stretch your muscles correctly. Before the race, you should stretch progressively and lightly, as not all of your body is ready for exercise. (Stretching abruptly at the beginning can cause an injury) At the end of the exercise, you should also do a gentle stretch to relax the muscles and gradually reduce physical stress.
Photo: Gastronosfera
- Hydration: Knowing how, when, and how much to hydrate can make a significant difference in your performance during a race. We are not just talking about hydrating when you are thirsty, but about preparing your body in advance for running. If you hydrate well days before the race, you will allow your body to assimilate all the fluids correctly and build up a reserve to face the wear, effort, and fluid loss. Avoid doing it right before starting, as it often increases the urge to urinate along the route.
Photo: ZonaRunning
- Sun Protection: Trail runners face the harsh conditions of nature and its geography. One of the most difficult aspects to deal with is the sun, which is why many of us use sunscreen to run. The mistake is to apply it a few minutes before competing. As the kilometers pass, the temperature rises, and sweat from the forehead will fall into our eyes. This distracts the runner and slows you down on the course. It is recommended to use a fast-absorbing sunscreen (non-greasy) 30 to 60 minutes before competing.
Photo: Runnersmx
- Nutrition: There is a debate about nutrition during the race, many claim that it helps you regain strength during the competition, so they eat fruits, seeds, and even try new products like rehydrating gels, bars, and other forms. But before doing so, you must know your body well because if your body digests quickly, it is likely to make you want to go to the bathroom during the race.
Photo: Correviviendo
- Travel: Many trail running competitions or routes are far from cities, which forces us to travel several kilometers to the location. Some are lucky enough to travel by plane, but the vast majority have to take a bus or drive to the location. The latter, driving, significantly harms the runners because it interrupts their rest schedule and generates greater physical and mental fatigue. Remember that resting is essential for the performance of runners, especially in long-distance ones.
Photo: axahealthkeeper.com
- Sporting Apparel: Some beginner runners make the mistake of going out to run wearing their oldest clothes. This is not the case, as in trail running there is a lot of movement, rubbing, exposure to different temperatures and geography, requiring clothing made of materials that help with ventilation and balance body temperature, as well as lightweight garments that do not cause friction between body movements.
Photo: TrailRunninIf you enjoy Trail Running, pay attention to these tips and improve your performance on your next mountain running outing.
A
Blog Author
DeAventura Team
