Running trends are a part of the industry, as trends are a part of all things. As the sport evolves, runners (and experts) hone in on techniques, equipment, protocols, and philosophies, whose popularity comes and (sometimes) goes. While I don’t always go all in on the latest and greatest trends, here are the ones that I hope stick around for a bit.
Run Your Slow Runs… Slow
The idea of running your easy runs slow is a newer concept that I really like. For one thing, I’m a slower runner in general, so it’s a bit encouraging to not feel absolutely spent after “easy” workouts. But also, running easy helps build a better aerobic system. Less strain can equate to reduced risk of injury or illness. And that slower pace can help burn fat faster, as well! The most important reason is that running slower can actually make you faster on race day! What a great incentive.
Trail Running Is Back!
This may be more regional, but for a while, we didn’t have a huge local trail presence. Over the last three to four years, that has changed. Our trails are a little more limited than in other parts of the country, but there is a thriving community of runners who take to the woods for their runs. It’s really great to see, and I hope I work up the confidence to get out there soon.
A Greater Variety Of Races
After CV19, we saw a decided drop in race events in our community. Sure, the long-standing, regular ones went on as planned, but the smaller, less well supported events dried up. Times were hard and it was certainly understandable, but it’s nice to see new races on the calendars. I’ve already taken advantage of a few of them.
With New Races Come New Runners
I absolutely love when new people join in the community, and one of my favorite running trends thus far is all the new runners. Running is a social sport, and it warms my heart to see people join in the fun.
What are your favorite running trends?
Join us next week —> What are your favorite running related stretches?
Link Up With Tuesday Topics
This year, I am joining up with Zenaida, of The Running Teacher for Tuesday Topics! Please join us every week for a new topic!
These are great. Trail running is popular. I haven’t embraced it yet since I’m clumsy. I just walk.
I love to see new runners. I makes me remember why I started.
Yes, trail running! I’m wondering how far you are from the Florida Trail- parts of my race in February were on the Florida trail and it is really beautiful (ahem- not in summer though, of course.)
I had to laugh at your photo of the snail- yep, that’s me!
So I am about three hours from Alafia State Park. And about 1:15 from Jennings State Forest, which is the closest trail by me. I don’t know where any of that is in relation to the Florida Trail. We do have some flat trails in some local parks, but those aren’t super fun.
The slow running thing is tough for me. It’s not that I’m especially “fast” or driven to outrun others,. It’s a serious challenge to make my legs go slower than what feels natural. BTW, I have that same issue with making them go faster than usual as well, LOL.
I totally understand what you’re saying! It’s never easy!
Trail running does seem more popular now. I have fallen a few times on trails so I’m not so keen to revisit them!
I love to see it! I’m not ready to join but it is a great sport!