Trail running, why its best for your body.

If your aiming to lose weight, improve fitness and tone up then look no further. Trail running is excellent for all three.

Trail running involves a lot changes in terrain, which will work you harder than running in the road or treadmill. It includes undulating terrain as the trail follows the natural landscape, but also lumps and bumps underfoot, meaning your entire body gets a workout while trying to keep you upright and moving forwards. While running on the treadmill or road running will strengthen many major muscles, trail running will also maximise the use of minor and stabilising muscles, making it more effective and complete workout.

All weather workout has its own benefits. Regular trail running using different route will challenge the body in new ways and quickly improve your fitness. Trail running offers you beautiful scenery, which in its self would motivate you to keep going but where as a treadmill would seem a daunting prospect.

Trail running get you out in the fresh air and away from polluted streets.  A combination of natural light and increased levels of serotonin, which can help reduce depression and regulate biological rhythms and a boost of vitamin D levels, which help to absorb calcium levels to build strong bones, this is a perfect but simple recipe for feeling great.

Trail reduces the risk of injuries as trail running tends to be less severe than on tarmac. The majority of trail surfaces will absorb the impact of each step. This means the muscles work harder as the impact to the joints is reduced. As trail running makes the body work harder, this increases the strength and fitness levels.

Trail running provides a greater challenge to the core area than treadmill or road running, helping to improve your posture, making you look taller and slimmer.

Trail running can be fun and adventurous. You could pick so many different routes, some with hills to challenge you even further. You could even pick certain spots to do speed intervals, for example from one lamp post to another or a tree to a tree. Pushing you to your 80% maximum.

Hope this helps and do get in touch to let us know how you are getting on. If you are a beginner, ensure you have the right foot wear and clothing.  Start off two to three times a week and then gradually increase from 10 to 15 minutes running to three times a week for 30 minutes each.

Be careful and ensure you have the right exercise guidelines and speak to a doctor if you are not sure, especially if you are on any medications or have any illnesses.

If you are not sure email us on face2facefitness@hotmail.co.uk for the attention of Fehmida Donnelly for further help or advice of how to start exercise for better health.