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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v12n13)
Gettin' Ripped in Ripple - Ditch the Road Jack! - by Laura Minor
posted: Jun. 26, 2015

Gettin' Ripped in Ripple header

Ditch the Road Jack!

If you are a regular reader of this column, you probably know that my favorite form of exercise is running. And if you are a client or friend of mine, you probably know that I tend to overdo it, and to a fault at times. Running is a great form of cardiovascular exercise and can be an awesome way to help control weight. But, it is also notorious for causing injury without enough rest or cross training. At the moment I am running about half as much and cross training with swimming, spinning and weight training and I feel a lot more balanced than just pounding away everyday on the road. Speaking of the road, another form of exercise that I have grown to adore in the past few years is trail running. Getting on the trail is a totally different experience than the road, and if you are a runner and walker I urge you to give it a try! Here's why:
  • Trails are cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. On a blistery hot day, the trails provide shade and feel at least 15 degrees cooler than running in full sun. In the frigid winter, trails provide a shelter from wind and insulation.
  • Less direct damaging sunlight. I already get too much sun; I have freckles and look more like Punky Brewster than I like to admit. 😄
  • No traffic or car fumes. No stopping at traffic lights, no drivers giving you dirty looks since they have to move around you, no car exhaust. Refreshing!
  • Faster recovery and less impact. Trails provide more cushion than concrete so there is less or no wear and tear to the body.
  • Getting into nature. Sometimes when I'm on a trail and the sun is providing gorgeous shadows from peeking through the leaves, and a deer trots by, I feel like the only person in the world and grateful. We need more time in the space that nature intended us to be in.
  • Boredom is unheard of. How could one be bored by running through the trees, jumping over fallen trees and bounding through puddles like they did as a kid?
  • Less care about speed. I can be a little type A about my pace and distance, so when I run trails I feel a sense of "freedom" from gadgets and am just present in the moment.
  • It's a harder workout. This may be a con more than a pro depending on who you ask! You definitely go slower, but most trails have hills and obstacles so despite the slower pace and possibly less miles, you are sure to get a great calorie burn regardless.
  • More core and balance training. With the turns, lateral steps and hops, you are not only working your legs and heart but also your core muscles and stability. More bang for your buck!
  • Trail runners are generally a very laid back group. I have done a handful of "organized" trail runs and they are always pretty loosey-goosey and not serious. It's a nice break from the road grind.
So if you are convinced that you want to give this form of exercise a try and wonder "Where do I go in Indy?"
Personally my favorite local trail runs are at Eagle Creek Park. They have miles of trails, and also hold many events if you are intimidated about getting around. The trails are well marked and groomed. Other great spots are Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park, Holliday Park, Marott Park, and Town Run Trail (watch out for mountain bikes!). If you want to venture out of Indy, Brown County State Park has a boatload of trails ranging from easy to hard.
Last point to make is to PAY ATTENTION if attempting to run trails. I have made a few nasty falls in the past. And be aware of poison ivy, bugs, etc. Not to deter you but I couldn't have ended this article without proper warning. I really hope some of you give this a try and if you do I would love you to email me and tell me what you thought! 😄



Laura Minor owner and operator of So.Be.Fit. Personal Training and Fitness studio located at 54th and the Monon. She is passionate about teaching others how to "FIT" exercise and physical activity into their daily lives, and have fun while doing so! Visit her website at www.sobefitindy.com or e-mail laura@BroadRippleGazette.com




laura@broadripplegazette.com
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