One thing I’ve thought a lot about lately: Why do I subject myself
to trail running? Why do I like it?
It especially comes up when I’m hitting a giant hill. Not because I am regretting having to blast
up it, but rather because I’m kind of excited in a perverse kind of way. If I was on a paved road I would not be happy
at all with having to push up a serious incline. However, in the dirt it’s a treat.
What makes it that much more interesting is that a road’s
hill can’t be too steep - maybe a 6-7% incline.
However, twenty-five percent are pretty typical trail inclines around
the areas I often find myself. I can
climb 1000’ easily on a hill. When I get
to the top, I am a mess of dirt, sweat, spit, tree twigs, etc.For me, the appeal is the satisfaction of conquering obstacles greater than I could ever imagine doing. I can run the same trail thirty times having that same satisfaction.
Interestingly, while on the road, I am always obsessed with
my splits. What am I running that mile in? Did I beat my last time? Please don’t stop to say hello to me, I’ve
got to get my third mile split down!
On the trail, I can take it faster or slower, take breaks, talk
with other runners, and not feel the pressure of time. I’m enjoying deep satisfaction without being
a slave to the clock - that’s why I Trail Run.
How about you?
Comment below.
