Things You'll Need:
- Running Clothes
- Trail Running Shorts
- Trail Running Socks
- Trail-running Shoes
- Running Foods (gels And Bars)
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Step 1
Run on roads for a while before moving to trails. It helps to have a base level of fitness before you attempt your first trail run.
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Step 2
Wear trail-running shoes, and dress in high-performance running clothes that are appropriate for all potential weather conditions.
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Step 3
Prepare by eating and drinking the proper things before and during your run (see Related eHows "Stay Hydrated on a Trail Run" and "Keep Your Energy Level Up on a Trail Run.")
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Step 4
Run on trails that are suitable to your level of fitness. Choose flat trails if you're a beginner or more challenging trails if you're an experienced runner. For tips on how to select the right trail, see Related eHow "Prepare for Your First Trail Run."
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Step 5
Plan ahead. If the trail is an "out-and-back" one, make sure you turn around early enough to enable you to run all the way back to the trailhead.
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Step 6
Warm up before you begin. Stretch your legs and arms and walk for the first few minutes.
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Step 7
Keep your head up and your eyes on the trail ahead. Avoid looking down at your feet. Watch for obstacles such as rocks, roots, logs and branches.
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Step 8
Stay on the trail, even when it's muddy or wet. Cutting switchbacks and bypassing tricky sections leads to unnecessary erosion and trail deterioration.
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Step 9
Pace yourself. Save energy for the miles ahead.
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Step 10
Slow down on steep climbs. Many experienced trail runners "power walk" steep sections and make up the lost time on flats and downhill slopes.
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Step 11
Stay in control on steep descents - keep your head up, control your speed and avoid obstacles.
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Step 12
Warm down during the last few minutes of your run.
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Step 13
Stretch thoroughly after you've finished.
