Why Mountain Trail Running Has Completely Changed My Perspective

(And Could Change Yours Too!)

Stop right there. Have you ever thought running was just a monotonous slog on tarmac? Think again because I was exactly where you are. Now, mountain trail running has transformed everything I thought I knew about my running journey, and it could do the same for you.

From Reluctant Road Warrior to Trail Enthusiast

If you’ve been with me on my [Runpreneur Challenge] journey so far, you’ll know my running roots are well and truly embedded in road running. Flat routes, minimal resistance, avoiding headwinds anything for that consistent daily dose, averaging 7.2-7.5 kilometres. That’s been my bread and butter for years (Kevin Brittain).

But sometimes, adventure calls whether you’re ready or not.

During a recent family escape in the stunning Vejer de la Frontera in Spain about an hour from Gibraltar I faced an unexpected twist. Every single run threw me headfirst into 200-metre elevation climbs. To put it mildly, it was nothing short of dramatic… but also, completely exhilarating.

Trail Running: It's Not About the Pace, It's About the Place

The biggest epiphany? When you hit those hilly, technical trails, pace is no longer your measure of success. Instead, you become fully immersed in the technicalities of the terrain, mastering your foot placement, and embracing the sheer splendour around you (Kevin Brittain). I was running through enchanting woodlands, marvelling at panoramic valley views, and passing those quintessential Spanish farms that look like paintings.

Honestly, I've never seen such breathtaking scenery. This experience reminded me that sometimes the greatest rewards come when you leave your comfort zone behind.

What Every Road Runner Needs to Hear

If you’re a flat-road die-hard, I get it I was you! But after embracing these mountain trails, my runs have become about so much more than just distance or speed. They're about learning: absorbing new skills like efficient uphill climbing, speedy downhill descents, and smart footwork all while soaking up the moment.

And yes, my pace took a hit averaging seven-minute kilometres felt painfully slow. But the sense of achievement and enjoyment smashed any PR. If you’re chasing real fulfilment, consider exploring trails, especially during dryer summer months. You won't regret it (Kevin Brittain).

Running with Purpose: Every Stride Saves a Life

Remember, this adventure is part of my ultimate mission: to go beyond Day 4,292 of the Runpreneur Challenge, to complete 40,075km (the circumference of the Earth!), and raise £1,000,000 to save children’s lives. Every day, every run, every blog post helps us climb closer to this ambitious target. The more eyes on my journey, the more funds we raise and the more lives we can change together (Kevin Brittain).

Ready for Your Own Trail Running Awakening?

Whether you’re a seasoned road runner or taking your first steps, I urge you to try trail running at least once. Experience the highs, both literal and motivational. See views you’ll never forget. Maybe, like me, you’ll discover a newfound passion and set your sights on a future ultra run even after swearing you’d never do another one again…

If you believe in this mission as much as I do, don’t just watch from the sidelines:

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Together, every action takes us closer to that million-pound goal and a brighter future for children in need.

Stay positive. Stay happy. And remember sometimes the hardest paths lead to the best views.