When it comes to running on different terrains, there’s always a slight difference you are going to feel.
Many runners would say after running 21km on a road, the body feels the strain and rigid after a run, but after 21km on the trail, it doesn’t put as much stress on the body as road running.
Yet, some say trail running is actually much harder on your body and joint than it seems. Well, there’s a lot of pros and cons to running both road and trail.
Putting that aside, it is always best to do both throughout your running journey. It is good to change up terrains and surfaces to prepare your body.
So what’s the difference between road running and trail running?
Road running is a much more common terrain that most runners run on, it is as easy as getting up in the morning and head out the door for a fun run. However, the road is constructed from asphalt or concrete which can bring a high impact on your body, especially on the knees.
On the other hand, trail running is made out of natural, softer surfaces which consist of soil, mud, and grass. If you are running on trail surface long term, it puts less impact on your body due to less pounding on your joints and body. However, trail running has more obstacles and bumps. For instance, you may be constantly looking out for a root or a rock that is up ahead to avoid. This allows your run to be slower and more concentrated.
Image via : mapmyrun
As a trail runner, it is also important to have a good balance and strong core to support your legs from the sudden change of movements and jumps. The uneven surfaces challenge the runner’s muscles more than flat and firm surfaces. Overall, running on a trail can help runners to improve their sense of balance and reaction time.
Image via : Travel Planner
While running on the road is more fast paces with lesser endurance and challenges compared to trail running. Road running has a more consistent forward movement with little or no obstacles. As road running is on a flat surface, it doesn’t have the same effect on the lower body as trail, but it can help promote the runner’s endurance and strength in all the major muscle areas. What is the difference between road running & trail running.
Lastly, if you are considering training for both road and trail running, it is always best to invest in a pair of dedicated trail running shoes. It will definitely improve your performance in trail running and prevent injuries.
Image via : Salomon
While you can probably get away with your regular running shoes, however, in the long term, trail shoes will provide more stability to protect your ankles, legs, and knees as well as giving you more traction over a variety of different surfaces during your trail run.
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