Recently, during one of my morning trail runs, I experienced my first fall. Falling is sometimes unavoidable when running on exposed tree roots and rocks, therefore the odds of getting hurt on a trail run can be higher than road running so it’s only natural to worry about taking a tumble that leaves you bloody, bruised, and broken.

I’ve found trail running to be better for my body and mind. Since I started trail running, I experience less frustration and find myself having more feelings of calm. Likewise, I know I am just beginning to scratch the surface of my trail running potential as I extended my joy of running by moving off the pavement and developing a deeper appreciation for trail running.

While racing is awesome, it is not the sole purpose for running. Without any races on the calendar, I figured this could be a great time to begin making an unofficial shift away from road running to trail running as a way to becoming a more balanced, athletic runner and duathlete.

Running is considered an equal platform of participation regardless of a person’s race. However, the murder of Ahmaud Arbery is a sad reminder that racism is still very much a reality in 2020.

In a time of self-isolation and quarantine, running outside is a great workout option in the midst of the coronavirus epidemic. Running provides relief from stress, boosts the immune system and is something you can safely enjoy outside while staying in full compliance with the recommendations from the health organizations and government.

Running is the simplest forms of exercise that anyone can do as well as one of the cheapest. You can run pretty much anywhere and you decide what time of the day that you want to run. As far as costs, the most money you would normally spend on running would be for a good pair of running shoes. Best of all, unlike many popular fitness trends, you don’t have to pay a monthly membership fee or buy a package to go running.