Technology on the Trails

The technological advancements that have occurred in our society, and around the world, have made it easier for people to manage their daily lives. However, some might argue that all of this technology has become more of a burden than a blessing. From iPods to GPS, technology has also found its way to the trails. I admit that some of this technology is quite useful for training. For example, the GPS unit that my favorite running partner (my wife) uses allows her to track how far she ran, her pace, as well as changes in elevation. She can use the data to track her training improvements over time. While her GPS won’t help if we get lost, it does have benefits.

When we first started running several years ago, it seamed that everyone was running with their mini-headphones rocking out to their favorites. I tried this, but found it more of a distraction than anything else. Too many times I’ve encountered drivers on the streets that don’t pay attention to runners, and these headphones would eventually be my downfall; I’ve since stop using them when on the streets or trails. Now, the only thing I run with is my watch. Our society runs on technology, but it doesn’t mean that I have to run with it.

In a recent jaunt at our local lake for a short run near the shoreline, my running partner twisted her right ankle and scraped up her left knee pretty bad. There was no way we were going to be able to run back home. She could barely walk and I was concerned she might have a broken ankle and needed stitches. She had here GPS and I had my watch. Neither of us had a phone. Fortunately, the trail around the lake has lots of people walking. We got some assistance from a woman with some paper towels to cover the scraped knee, and then I stopped another person and asked to borrow their phone to call and get a ride. Lucky for us we were close to the park entrance and in an area with other people when the accident occurred. If we had been 5 miles in on some of the other trails, we would have had to try and make our way out to find help, or I would have had to leave her alone to go find help.

I admit that I don’t like to carry anything extra while running, except for water on hot or long runs and my keys. This event has been an eye opener. My wife is still not able to run yet after over 3 weeks off, but is recovering. The next time we go, we will definitely be bringing two more items: Band-Aids and a cell phone. I recommend that every runner, no matter where you run, bring these with you. I used to run with an mp3 player on my waist or armband. As is turns out, I have an small cell phone that is just about the same size and will fit in my old holster. Also, if you run with a hydration belt, there are usually small pouches that connect to them as well. Happy running!

Get Out and Run: National Trail Running Day

Fellow trail runner Chris Barber over at SeriousRunning.com has started the first National Trail Running Day to be held accross the country by other trail runners (August 22, 2009). This inaugural event was started to increase awareness and interest to the sport of Trail Running. There is already a National Running Day (in which I participated), but no day just for those of us that love to run the trails.

The popularity of trail running in booming with more people leaving the roads and hiting the trails, mostly to find relief for their feel, lungs, and souls. If you get a chance to hit the trails this Saturday the 22nd, you might just find yourself with a new passion.

Running Trails with Trail Shoes

I have been looking at trail running shoes for several months. There are a lot of choices out there, and I've tried on several from different makers, such as Adidas, Columbia, Asics, and others. A couple weeks ago, we were in one of the local Sport Chalet stores near my home, so I decided to look at what shoes they had to offer. From past experiences with shoes, my motto now is that if the suggested retail price is not at least $80 then it is probably too low of a model and won't last, be comfortable, or supportive.

My last two pair of road running shoes have both been Asics, so I thought I would focus mostly on that maker's shoe line. Most of their trail running shoes are upward of $90. While I browsed the shelves, I found a shoe that was on sale, the Asics Gel-Kahana 3. The retail was $75, so I thought I would give it a try. It was surprisingly comfortable and fit very similar to my other road shoes, but of course had a more aggressive tread pattern which is what I was looking for.

The Asics Gel-Kahana 3 is a mid-priced trail shoe, but not one you should quickly overlook. My first run with this shoe provided extra cushioning under the ball and heel, but didn't really add much ankle support. I've been running with road shoes on the trails and haven't really needed the extra support, so this was not a problem. The extra protection from rock bruises was a much needed relief. I now have the extra traction for climbing hills and running more technical trails.

I have to say the the one place this shoes seems to really excel is the degree of traction on descents. I ran down a twisty and powdery 25% grade hill and didn't slip once. So, if you are looking for a good trail shoe, I would recommend the Asics Gel-Kahana 3.

Yes. I am a Trail Runner

Every since I was a baby, my parents would drag our family from our home in the Bay Area up to the Sierra Nevada's to spend time in a mountain cabin. I spent many weekends learning to ride a motorcycle, panning for gold, climbing rocks, and trying to avoid the poison oak. When we were not going to the mountains, we went dry camping at several lakes not far from home. Needless to say, I think dirt is in my blood.

As the years went by, our family stopped going to the cabin as frequently and eventually stopped all together. I gave up motorcycle riding, but soon afterward picked up mountain biking in the early 90's. I still mountain bike today, and will always have a love for two wheels and a trail. However, I have a new passion which arose from several reasons.

About two years ago I got into running for fitness, thanks mostly to my loving wife. I started simple and ran around the block, then more blocks, and then miles. If you've ever run the streets, you know that it is murder on your feet and monotonous on your mind. I live close to where I mountain bike and decided that I would like to try running the trails that I ride.

Running has always been a way for me to refocus and release that pent up energy from a long day at work. Riding was not always about getting exercise, but more about the adrenaline rush and adventure that goes along with it. So, when I combined these two, I get something that gives me all of it in one package. I get the exercise I want, the adventure I crave, and the mental recharge that I need.

Near the trail heads, you usually see a lot of people walking with their dogs or just taking a stroll. But when you get a couple miles in, it's tranquil, revitalizing, and free; just you and nature...and the other occasional trail runner doing the same thing you are...living. Trail running is more than just running on dirt. There is a spiritual aspect of the act that is different for everyone. When I run the roads, I long for companionship, mostly due to the boredom associated with the never-ending sidewalks. When I run the trails, I am never bored. I am surrounded by nature and all of it's wonders. Trail running with a partner is even more enjoyable, because we can share in this splendor together and rejoice after an amazing and life-refreshing experience.

Keeping Hydrated

Summer is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy nature. In California, Summer means dry dusty trails and temperatures that can reach the 90s (degrees) or hotter. Yesterday I went for run in the later afternoon. The temperature was about 85 when I left. I ran my usual route, but made a choice to take a farther run that took me about 3 miles farther for a total of about 8 miles.

There are several places along the way to get water, but I don't usually need it. It was hot so I got a small drink to wet my dry mouth at the Ranger Station. At the fountain, I met two ladies. One asked how I was able to not get heat exhaustion. I smiled and just told her to stay hydrated. I'd been drinking throughout the day and felt pretty good, so I took my drink and headed out.

After about another 30 minutes, I realized that it sure would have been nice to have a little more water with me. The next water wasn't for another 25 minutes farther. I took it easy and made it to the golf course where I enjoyed the much needed drink, albeit warm water. I took a short break and then left to make my way home. It was a great run, but I now realized how important hydration is before, during, and after strenuous workout on a hot and dry day.

When I ride my mountain bike, I always have my CamelBak Classic Hydration Pack with more than enough water. My wife has a CamelBak Montara Hydration Waistpack, but I hadn't though about borrowing it before the run. Now, I wish I had borrowed it.

I decided to check out REI.com and see what they had online. I was please to find that they had a great selection of hydration options, including a variety of hydration belts and waist packs.

• Nathan Trail Mix Waistpack
• CamelBak FlashFlo Hydration Waistpack - 45 oz.
• Amphipod RunLite Trail Runner Hydration Belt - 21 oz.
• REI Single Shot Waist Pack
• GoLite Hydrobolt Waistpack

There are a lot of choices for those that want to wear, or even carry, their water. I encourage you to look at all the options and see what works best for you. I will probably get a waist pack of either the bladder type or one that holds reusable bottles. Dehydration is no joking matter. Take it seriously and stay safe.