One of the biggest misconceptions about trail running is that it’s remote, rugged, and reserved for ultra-athletes.
But as Ben Macwilliam, Co-founder and CEO of trail running events company Maverick Race, explains: “Trail running is everything from a gravel park path through to gnarly ridgeways in the Alps, and everything in between. You’ve probably already done it without realising.”
This makes trail running an ideal way to add variety to your training, without the need to overhaul your schedule or invest in new kit.
While trails can build more strength and endurance on longer, more undulating routes, the benefits aren’t just physical. “There’s no traffic, external noise or distraction, it’s just me and the trail. Just escaping and thinking,” Ben says.
And you don’t have to try the trails on your own. There are many clubs and communities bringing people of all experience levels together.
This community feeling is one Ben experiences regularly at Maverick Race events. “Trail is often more of a social thing, people doing it for the enjoyment rather than chasing PBs,” he explains.
“We get it all the time. People are nervous, thinking it was going to be intimidating. But everyone is chatting and super friendly. We’re all in it together.”
Integrating trails into your training
You don’t need to live near a national park to get started. Here’s how to weave trails into your routine and some advice on what to take with you.
- Swap one weekly run for a trail route: Test out your local parkrun or find a path to explore.
- Explore with purpose: Apps such as Komoot, AllTrails, and OS Maps can help you find nearby trails, plan safe routes and can often be shared with friends and clubmates, too.
- Fuel smart and stay self-sufficient: You’ll probably be out for longer than usual as you navigate hills and trails. Ben recommends carrying essentials in a running vest - water, snacks, a rain jacket, and your phone.
- Join a trail club: Maverick’s Run Project offers guided runs across the UK, with varied paces and terrain. Ben says: “We have 35 run leaders all over the country that run at different times of the week, different distances, different paces.”
Trail running offers a deeper sense of achievement
Alongside the connection to nature and the friends you meet along the way, trails offer something deeper: a sense of achievement that’s hard to replicate on the road.
“It’s so rewarding to get to the top of a climb, where the views are incredible,” Ben says. That moment, when the landscape opens up around you, is trail running’s unique reward, and something you can continue to discover on different routes.
Ready to give it a go?
Whether it’s a local park or a Maverick Race event, your next trail adventure could be closer than you think.
