7 Top Tips Why You Need to Be Trail Running

With race season for road based events closing out, now is the perfect time to switch things up. As a qualified coach and an accomplished road, trail and obstacle course runner and racer, I’ve seen first-hand how trail running can transform performance, resilience and wellbeing. Here are my seven top coaching tips on why you should be adding trails into your rotation.

1. Build Bulletproof Strength

Hills, uneven surfaces and technical sections force your muscles to adapt in ways the road never can. Each step recruits your calves, quads, glutes and core, building strength that transfers directly back to stronger, more efficient road running.

Coaching tip: Swap one easy road run each week for a trail run with rolling hills to strengthen stabilisers and climbing power.

2. Injury Proof Your Body

Road running can be repetitive. Trails provide variety, with softer ground and constantly changing foot placement that conditions your joints, tendons and ligaments. This helps reduce the risk of overuse injuries.

Coaching tip: Use trails as active recovery days. The softer surface reduces impact and helps protect your body as mileage builds.

3. Sharpen Running Economy

Technical terrain demands precision. Dodging rocks, roots and switchbacks improves coordination, balance and agility, which carry over into smoother and more efficient road running.

Coaching tip: Don’t chase pace on the trails. Focus on rhythm, footwork and staying light on your feet, the efficiency gains will show up on the road.

4. Freshen Up Mentally

Big road race blocks can feel structured and draining. Trails strip away the pressure of pacing, splits and watch-checking, giving you the mental reset you need.

Coaching tip: Leave the watch at home once in a while. Run by feel and enjoy the freedom of simply moving through nature.

5. Boost Wellbeing Outdoors

Green spaces have proven benefits for mood, stress reduction and overall energy. Trails combine training with time in nature, which helps you feel restored, not just fitter.

Coaching tip: Schedule a weekly “wellbeing run” on the trails, not focused on performance but on the mental recharge it brings.

6. Keep Training Fun

Trails add adventure and variety. Every route is different, every climb has its reward, and descents remind you why running should feel playful.

Coaching tip: Explore a new trail or link up with friends for a social run to keep the fun factor alive in training.

7. Set a Strong Foundation for What’s Next

Switching to trails after road race season lets your body recover and rebuild while still maintaining fitness. The resilience you gain will carry into your next training block, ensuring you arrive stronger and healthier.

Coaching tip: Use the post-race season window to introduce more trail runs before ramping up road mileage again. It’s the perfect reset.

Bringing It Together

As the road race calendar winds down, trails are waiting to give you strength, resilience and balance. They’re not just a break from the bitumen, they’re one of the best investments you can make in your running future.

Check out our extensive trail shoe range. Get in touch for coaching and form or simply follow us on Instagram for trusted news.

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