When trail running, the pace, strain and landscapes vary nicely according to differences in elevation and the path itself. Enjoy the feeling of lactic acid in your legs on uphill sections, let your stride roll lightly along a path covered by a soft layer of coniferous needles on downhill sections and test your balance as you run over roots. The changing landscapes and the smells and colours of the forest are a good reason for runners to stop and admire the unique atmosphere.
Running as a hobby is more popular than ever in Finland, with more and more people choosing to run on trails rather than asphalt or roads. The popularity of trail running has increased dramatically over the past few years. This is evident from the sold-out trail running events being organised in Finland’s magnificent nature, the development of equipment suitable for the terrain and the establishment of trail running communities that are open to everyone. Metsähallitus maintains more than 7,000 kilometres of marked hiking trails, so there’s sure to be a trail of the right length and level of difficulty for every runner.
Nature encourages people to continue running
Trail running is excellent exercise, as it challenges your endurance, agility, coordination and balance. Climbing hills and maintaining your balance while going downhill strengthens your muscles in a diverse manner. Running on trails may also be suitable for people who experience foot problems when running on a hard asphalt surface. Trail running requires a generous dose of adventurous spirit – at the very least, your shoes are sure to get wet at some point during the run.
The surrounding nature is a key part of trail running and the most important source of motivation for many people. The changing seasons, aesthetic experiences, sounds and smells of nature and lack of noise have positive effects on both body and mind and make the run feel easier. Nature also encourages people to continue being active.
Getting started with trail running
It’s a good idea to start with familiar or marked trails. Always take a map if you’re unsure about the route or in a new place. Trail runners announce group runs on social media, for example, so a beginner can avoid getting lost by going with other people. You should also plan on purchasing good shoes. You can start the activity with ordinary jogging shoes, but remember that they may be slippery on a trail. If you enjoy the activity, invest in trail running or orienteering shoes.
Running is an endurance activity, so always progress according to your fitness level and pace. Start trail running on shorter and easier trails. You can ask for advice about suitable trails at nature centres or look for interesting routes on the Luontoon.fi and Excursionmap.fi services (excursionmap.fi). Remember that running in the terrain is different than running on asphalt and your skills will develop gradually. For example, the risk of sprains may be higher in the terrain – especially for inexperienced trail runners. However, trail running is a relatively safe activity when you run with a good group, on a route planned in advance and at a suitable pace.
Respecting nature is vital when you enjoy outdoor exercise, so please remember the principle of litter-free hiking. Do not leave empty gel packs or nut bags in the forest. Read more about trail running and events in Finland (trailrunning.fi, in Finnish).