I think I jumped on the crazy train!

[Aggie_Ama]

I got the local active email and saw the Xterra Trail Run series is starting and now I want to do it! I did one trail run training for my half marathon at a local mountain bike course and was hooked. My question is what do I need to know? I need trail running shoes but what else?

I think I am going to start with the 10k levels, maybe get real crazy and start doing the 20K+ runs next year. It seems way more interesting than road running and shady which is welcome in Texas!

[rocknrollgirl]

Aside from proper footwear, keep in mind that trail miles and road miles are not the same. You will use a lot more of your lateral stabilizing muscles because of the uneven terrain. It is very easy to get injured if you jump in with both feet. Pun intended.

I would suggest that you start with short runs, regardless of your current road mileage to give your muscles, tendons and ligaments a chance to adjust to the demands of trail running.

Also remember that you will be slower, so fuel and water will become an issue sooner than on the road.

Nothing else jumps to mind right this second aside from welcome to the dark side....