Analysing your pacing data
Run coach Sean Tait drills down into the major challenges facing TRAIL readers. In this article he addresses the benefit of analysing your run pace.
Train for uphill trail running courses
Coach Sean Tait addresses the challenge of doing enough hill run training, with ideas on how to get the most benefit from your effort. He also answers the question: what about inclined treadmill training as a way to train for hilly races?
Tips for your first trail race
Your first trail event (of any length) can be an intimidating prospect. Or maybe you're stepping up to a new unknown distance and you don't know if you'll be able to manage it.
TRAIL sought out trail running experts to help you overcome your challenges.
My Annapurna 55 meltdown
Huge mountains in the Annapurna range, a seemingly unending climb, and an ultra distance trail challenge at altitude create a perfect storm. This article first appeared in TRAIL 41 (Oct/Nov/Dec 2021 edition).
Lessons from Ultra-Trail Drakensberg
Amri Williamson recalls her struggles with altitude sickness on her way to winning her first hundred miler at the 2021 Ultra-Trail Drakensberg's UTD160.
Mountain Club to the rescue
We spoke to three members of the Mountain Club of South Africa about their love for the mountains, safety tips, and their experience with rescues. Heed their advice to avoid the majority of dangers in the mountains.
Have patience with your training
Instead of going at maximum intensity every training session, trust the process and be patient with your body. Coaches Meg Mackenzie and James Montgomery of The Run Project explain the importance of patience to get long-term gains.
Trail running glossary
An ever-expanding list of terms used by trail runners in South Africa and beyond. Use this glossary to master the sport's jargon. Illustrated by Barry Maitland-Stuart. Compiled by Heloise Hunter. First published in TRAIL issue 33.
Three core strength exercises for runners
You need a strong core to be a better runner, but doing 100 sit-ups a day isn't the answer! Physiotherapist and trail runner Karine Bezuidenhout has three core exercises with no equipment to share. Originally published in TRAIL issue 37.
Install and test your grounding mat
Three short videos by Durban biokineticist Stephan Terblanche. 1. Setting up earthing equipment, 2. Testing your grounding mat, 3. Comparing your grounding mat with other materials. Best viewed after reading his TRAIL magazine issue 38 article.
How to choose your next pair of run shoes
Running shoe expert Grant Bryant of RUN Store helps you choose trail running shoes which are optimal for your needs. Hint: it's not about the style or the colour! Your history, biomechanics, terrain, run philosophy, and personal fit all count.
Scrambling: move expertly on steep trails
The fuzzy line between trail running and mountain climbing that gets you to the summit, scrambling requires its own skill set. Mountain guides and endurance runners Robyn Owen and Pierre Jordaan prepare you for future scrambling missions.
Three people outrunning type 1 diabetes
Three determined people outrunning type 1 diabetes. Anne-Marie Warner, Nicole du Plooy, and Nic McConnachie are all athletes who balance their blood sugar with their activity level. Find out how they do it. Originally published in TRAIL 32.
The comeback after lockdown
Coach Erin van Eyssen of Flat Rock Endurance explains how to adapt to training after lockdown. Use his advice to rebuild fitness and get your mindset right, while avoiding injury.
Is our enthusiasm for spekboom misguided?
Everyday is Earth Day - so stop monoculture and plant diverse, local plants in your garden throughout the year. Spekboom is a remarkable South African succulent, but it isn't better than every other plant! Originally published in TRAIL 35.
Foot Pilates for trail runners
Build ankle, foot, and leg strength using the Pilates footwork series. Sasha Ehlers shares a quick series of exercises that work every stabilising muscle of the lower extremity. First published in TRAIL 32.
Resistance band cross-training for runners
One gym accessory, so many options! Use your resistance bands effectively with coach Brendan McBirnie of Fitness From Africa. This article was first published in TRAIL 34.
Skipping rope cross-training for trail runners
Use a skipping rope to maintain fitness and have fun, no matter where you are! Personal trainer Rhain Hoskins shows you the moves and workout combinations. Article originally published in TRAIL 31
Coronavirus COVID-19 and its trail running opponents
Coronavirus COVID-19 has reached South Africa, and the battle has begun in earnest. While most of the nation is limiting interactions, some feel it's not necessary, that the disease is not that serious. We hope this plea from the TRAIL team convinces some of this minority to do what's working for countries affected earlier than SA.
How to train for mountains in the flatlands
How do you train for mountains when you live in a flat region? Coach Sean Tait – founder of Off the Mark Training – has solutions for you, including proven methods using treadmills, short hill repeats, stairs, and once-a-week roadtrips to your local high point. You can do this!
