Ready to start trail running?
Trail running is only getting bigger and more popular. Maybe you want to start trail running but aren't sure how to begin.
'Malte in Trail School' takes you with the experienced trail instructor, route planner, and one of Denmark's best trail runners, Simon Grimstrup, through a series of exercises to make you a better trail runner.
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In this first episode of 'Malte in Trail School', it's about gaining confidence in your feet. Trail running is largely about becoming one with nature and the terrain.
- Trail running isn't about maintaining a steady pace but finding peace, relaxing your body, and enjoying nature, says Simon Grimstrup.
'Heavy Eyelids'
One of the first exercises we try is “Heavy Eyelids”. An exercise you can easily do on your own. To build trust in your feet, Simon introduces this exercise where you run with closed eyes, opening them briefly only when necessary. This forces the runner to feel the terrain and shifts focus from constantly looking down to letting the feet do the work.
-Feet are packed with dense nerve connections that constantly send impulses to the brain about the terrain. To react optimally and prevent twisting an ankle, it's crucial to relax, says Simon Grimstrup.
One of Simon's messages is not to constantly stare at the ground but to look up and scan the surroundings.
- The brain can remember the terrain's structure up to 10 meters ahead and adjust your steps accordingly.
Simon also mentions that he sometimes runs in total darkness at night, turning off his headlamp to train his body to become one with nature and the terrain.
Finally, Simon recommends practicing landing on the forefoot when trail running. Forefoot landing allows quick adjustments and balance if the terrain shifts.
You can watch the entire episode 2 of 'Malte in Trail School' here.
Were you inspired?
Did you feel like going for a run in the woods and need some shoes for the task? Find our full range right here.
