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Trail Run?

jtrimom's picture
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started by jtrimom on October 19, 2009

After reading another thread about a 25k trail run, I looked into it and found one coming up an hour away from me in 3 weeks. So here are a couple things I want ya'll to consider before giving me advice on whether I should go for it...I want to do it, but...

Next Sunday is Longhorn HIM, which I don't plan to "kill" b/c of the "unknown" and the hills I didn't train on

I have never run on trails before

My long runs are b/t 12-16 mi with a weekly total of about 30-35 mi.

It sounds like a fun challenge, but do I need more time to train/ recover from my race?

Also, if the answer is go for it, is it a MUST to run in trail shoes? and if so, should I stick to Asics (my tried and true running shoes)?

Taper Naked

TriSooner's picture
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TriSooner posted 4 weeks ago.

Longhorn isn't too tough of a course (from what I've read, they've made it even 'easier' by taking out hills on the run) so it won't destroy you like maybe Buffalo Springs in Lubbock would. The weather will be nice too in Austin this weekend so it won't add to the recoup. So, you should have a quick recovery. Also, two weeks between IM 70.3 and Rocky Raccoon is plenty of time. With your half training you're where you'd need to be to do a 25k trail run anyways so you may as well extend the conditioning over and do RR. It would be like getting in a 'free' run you didn't really have to train for specifically. Trail running is different, particularly it is much slower (or it is for many), with softer running surfaces, better scenery, and you tend to focus much more on the trail surface than you would on a road. My point is it would be a great change of pace and philosophy. I think it would be the perfect non-tri run, timed just right. You just finished Longhorn so the pressure is off (and you wouldn't have to worry about turning an ankle right before your 70.3). RR is "only" 15.5m/25k so you'd be out there three hours at worst. And trail runners are so much more laid-back and relaxed compared to Type A "Believe the Hype" triathletes. Road shoes are fine for a trail. From what I found at the RR site, it looks like sweet single track, not technical at all. If you want technical in Texas, come up to Dallas for Rockledge - the operative terms being "rock" and "ledge."

jtrimom's picture
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jtrimom posted 4 weeks ago.

Thanks Sooner! that's just what I wanted to hear :)

Taper Naked

KellyW's picture
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KellyW posted 4 weeks ago.

I agree with Trisooner, you should do it, and you will love it! Regular shoes are fine. Keep an eye out for roots and rocks but not so much that you forget to look for the trail markers. :)

Sooner is right about trail runners. They are generally mellow, friendly, and helpful. Trail runs are the ONLY races I've ever been in where on an out-and-back course, the elite runners will give you a smile and say something encouraging as you pass each other. Really cool people.

orangedog's picture
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orangedog posted 4 weeks ago.

maybe not if the trail isn't too technical and the elevation gains aren't too steep, but when budgeting time, figure you'll go almost 1 mph slower than your comparable road pace

www.theorangedog.net
skills>> spirits>> speed>>

Anton's picture
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Anton posted 4 weeks ago.

Heck yeah you should go! Even if you were smashed from your HIM...just to go and lollygag would be fun...
DON'T go for a trail run before your race. Trail running , while slower and easier on the legs can produce catastrophic injuries! (wrenched knees, sprained ankles,)
After your race however if you have a chance to get out a few times and run some trail please do...it will give you an idea which way the wind blows off road.
Road shoes fine. Pay attention on the trails because if you look up, you might go down!
Have a blast!
Can't wait to hear about both events...

"If e wishes to sweem in dangerous waters, oo are we to deny im?
-Chef Skinner
http://antonspath.blogspot.com

jonovision_man's picture
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jonovision_man posted 4 weeks ago.

I ran in my ASICS road shoes... they were fine.

Have fun! :) It's a different world, worth experiencing.

jono

beads1985's picture
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beads1985 posted 4 weeks ago.

Give it a shot but take it slowere and definitely watch where you are putting your feet.

If it isn't too technical regular road shoes will do.

You can always get a pair of gaiters to keep the rocks and debris out of your shoe.

'Nothing to it, but to do it!'