[superchick36]

Hi! I was wondering if anyone is into trail running? I have shin issues(I buy expensive shoes and have seen a foot doc) so pounding pavement is out of the question. I can hike without any issues, so I thought maybe trail running would work for me. I am a female that weighs 210 pounds, so will need to start out slow. Any suggestions on how to get started would be great. What are some good trail running shoes. Would it be worth trying to join a trail running group?

Thanks!

[TripSwitch]

I'm a BIG FAN of trail running... and actually lived and worked in Boulder several years ago where I ran trails exclusively... not sure what part of CO you're in, but I'm sure you're probably pretty close to some amazing trails...

It sounds like from your post that you're not already running? If that's the case I might suggest starting with one of the walk-run-walk-run type programs like the various C25K programs... and just find some easy and relatively flat trails to do it on at first... then once you're comfortable with that you could try some more difficult technical single-track if you feel up for it... and don't be afraid to walk whenever you need to... in fact, depending on how steep it it is sometimes power walking it is a lot faster and more efficient than trying to "run" it...

As far as "trail" running shoes go... you may not need such a specialized shoe unless you are going to be running on pretty technical trails... and actually, a really good running shoe that's right for you can get the job done pretty well... I only use a "trail" shoe for very technical trails with single-track and rock scrambling... where the extra stability might come in handy... So I actually do most of my trail running in a pair of "road" shoes that work well for me... but when it comes to trail shoes I've always been partial to Montrail's because they are what works for me... but that's purely personal preference... My suggestion there is to go to a good running store and tell what you're looking to do and get fitted... like I say you may not need an actual "trail" specific shoe at first... personally I think the right fit for your biomechanics with the right amount of stability and cushioning is more important than getting a trail specific shoe at first if you're not going to be on really hardcore trails... at least just yet...

Hope this helps... and Happy Trails! (Sorry for the really bad pun... but sometimes I just can't help myself... )

[superchick36]

Thanks for all the good information. I am in Springs right now but will be moving to the Denver area in about a month. Makes sense on not needing trail shoes for basic trail running paths. I am not a runner so I will be starting out doing walk/runs until I can just run them.
Thanks again for all the info.

[devadiva]

Dirt roads are also a great place torun and work up to trails. I love trail running!

[superchick36]

There is a half mile dirt road behind our house that I thought I would start with. I figured I would walk down and then run back and do that as many times as I can. I do need to get some shoes first though. Right now I only have hiking shoes. Do you guys find it easier on the joints to run on dirt compared to concrete, or no difference? I'm really hoping it won't mess my shins up.