Trail running question

[scuba diver]

Is trail running that much harder then road running?

I'm considering running the Fools 50 in March which is a trail run. Last night I did my first trail run, a long 21 miles.

I'm trying to figure out why I am so sore today. Running 21 miles is normally no issue. Yesterday it was tough.

I know I had some nutrition issues up front since I did not prepare. It was a last minute decision since the weather was perfect. I Gued while running.

The course was sandy and full of roots.

I'm trying to figure out if it was my nutrition or just the fact the maybe trail running is much more difficult then road running.

Any thoughts?

 

[princessrunner]

Jim, I find trail running harder because I am dodging things. It tends to shorten or lengthen my normal stride and I am more sore after a short trail run than I am after a LR on pavement. I am by no means an expert and I have never done a trail race but just for a switchup I run on our ski trails in the summer. I hope you get a good answer to your question!!

 

[Steffwalks]

Yes, it is harder! A lot harder. Suface makes a huge difference!
Yes, nutrition makes it harder, too.
Running in sand is a lot harder and different! Injuries are more likely!

 

[Optimator]

Jim - I'm with the crowd so far. The uneven surface really works the muscles in your feet, ankles, and on up. Add the fact that even little dips and hills are more severe than on the road and it's a totally different ball game.

I don't run trails much but really enjoy when I do.

 

[scuba diver]

Interesting.

The softer sand is easier on the joints, but makes it harder on everything else.

At least I only fell once and remembered to not reach out with the arms, but to tuck in the shoulder and roll.

 

[scoolover]

My "trail" experience includes a 1/2 mile real trial run that kicked my *** and an off road 5K that only had about a mile of real trail work in it. Both were tough and left me sore the next day. The closest I get to it other than that are the local logging or resevour access roads. Other than my 1.5 miles of off road experience, I don't have much to add.

 

[ultramickeymouse]

I am in the opposite corner. I have done over 40 ultra's and in the day when I was faster, I felt better after a 50 mile trail run than a road marathon. The roads are unforgiving on the body here the trails are much easier on the body. It may take more effort but the body will like you better. The only exception was when I attempted the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run.

 

[scuba diver]

I am in the opposite corner. I have done over 40 ultra's and in the day when I was faster, I felt better after a 50 mile trail run than a road marathon. The roads are unforgiving on the body here the trails are much easier on the body. It may take more effort but the body will like you better. The only exception was when I attempted the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run.

The expert speaks and I want to learn more.

Here is the bottom line question......the trail run is in 2 weeks. It is questionable if I will have time to get another LSR trail run in between recovery and taper.

Is it realistic to think that being marathon ready (finishing Goofy and several long runs and races since) and only a 21 mile trail run will allow me to finish (not race) a 50K?

Is it doable or am I out of my mind?

 

[Steffwalks]

LOL I agree with Robert, too! I agree with everyone this morning! A trail is easier on the overall body, but the surface for footing is much more difficult. My biggest problem doing trails is small pebbles that roll under your foot.

 

[ultramickeymouse]

You will be fine. Ultra rules are walk the hills and save your legs for the downhill. Good luck and enjoy being out on the trails.

I really enjoyed doing trails in the mountains. It is very relaxing and a great feeling. You do have to watch the rock monsters

 

[gatorphipps]

I am in the opposite corner. I have done over 40 ultra's and in the day when I was faster, I felt better after a 50 mile trail run than a road marathon. The roads are unforgiving on the body here the trails are much easier on the body. It may take more effort but the body will like you better. The only exception was when I attempted the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run.

Have to agree wwith this! I think it is easier...on my joints...ect..Have done 1 trail marathon and LOVED it more than any other marathon I have ever done. Not sore at all the next day.....MAY tri some longer trail distances this year.

IMHO I think you will be fine. You are ready.