Trail running is very much an emerging sport, and it's a perfect way to combine the pleasure of going for a run with the sense of accomplishment that could previously only be obtained by hiking the trails. It is very different from road running and track running, as it is generally done on mountainous terrains. Last year, a few friends and I got an opportunity to go on the trail track. We were all excited and had butterflies in our stomachs. Trail running was something we had only dreamt of earlier, and now it was turning into a reality.

We had an amazing journey and we enjoyed it to the fullest. Before the beginning of the journey, we had many thoughts running through our heads and we were looking forward to enjoying the "sense of freedom" about which we had heard so much from others who had already indulged in the activity.

Altogether, our trail running experience was breathtaking. The most interesting part of the trip was that we could explore our inner selves as we got to know about our various limits, strengths and weaknesses. Discovering beautiful scenery, meeting new people, and facing new challenges provided us with an overall experience which we knew we would all remember for a lifetime.

The trail brought along with it many challenges and dangers, as constant thoughts ran through our heads about how safe we would be if any mishap occurred or how we would deal with any hazards that we might face. These fears were valid, but overcoming them was a greater challenge. The sense of accomplishment that we all felt once we had finally conquered the trail was unmatched by anything else we had experienced, and I can only say that should you get the chance to have a similar experience, I urge you to overcome your fears and go for it!

Here is a quick guide that you can follow if you are looking to start getting involved in trail running.

Search for your group

Before beginning the journey, search for any local beginner-friendly trail running groups which you can join. They are usually very welcoming and eager to help newcomers get involved and make the most of the sport. But if no such group exists near you, you can choose some friends who have a similar adventurous streak as you. You can also participate in the local trail so that you get a chance to meet other, more experienced trail runners.

Calculate the Risk before Beginning the Journey

When compared to the other risks that we take every day, such as when driving a car, trail running really isn't that dangerous. But of course, some risk is involved in trail running as there is the possibility of a wildlife encounter, personal injury, dehydration, getting lost, and other issues.

So, before planning the trip you must consider the situation in front of you and work out what kind of risks your trail is likely to present you with, followed by a plan for how to deal with any issues that may come up.

Practice before starting the trail

Before setting out on the trail for your full-on run, you should definitely get plenty of practice so that you know you are ready to face any terrain and surprises that you might encounter. While practicing, you should start with some flat gravel trails and more gentle roads - only once you're totally comfortable with these environments should you start to gradually increase the intensity of the terrain on which you're running. You should also come well prepared to face any slippery surfaces and other unusual and hazardous surfaces that you might face - definitely make sure you wear appropriate footwear for the task.