Both road and off road/trail running have their own challenges and benefits. So what’s best for your workout?
Road running
Road and inner city running tends to be more predictable than the trails. You do have to keep an eye out for potholes, cars and other pedestrians but generally you can get into your stride and let the miles fly by. Running on a firm surface such as a road or path allows your body to get into a steady pattern and you tend to land in a very similar way each step, which reduces the risk of injuries associated with awkward missteps.
Exhaust fumes and noise pollution can be a bit unpleasant, so taking to the paved trails the coast is a more pleasant option than running on a generic city road.
Trail running
True trail running gives you the opportunity to get out into the fresh air, away from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy nature at its best. There can be a few more obstacles on the trail though. You’ll need to be on the lookout for tree roots, water hazards, sudden unexpected changes in gradient and wildlife.
The verdict
It really depends on personal preference and what you’re hoping to achieve from your run. The majority of elite runners will combine both trail and road running into their annual training and racing plan. That’s because you develop different skills from running on different surfaces, so a mixed program is a great way to continually challenge your body.
