Innholdsfortegnelse for April - May 2017 i Trail Running

YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME It’s official. An amazing 3500 of you have signed up to the #Run1000Miles challenge so far and are well on your way to having your fittest year ever in 2017. Nice work! I keep in touch with a whopping 1400 of you via our closed Facebook group, and it’s so inspirational. Daily, hourly even, there are new photos of you guys grinning insanely out on the hills with your running friends, taking #TrailShoeSelfies with incredible mountain views and posting your mileage stats. If people have a bad day, are injured or haven’t run as far as they’d have liked, everyone replies to their posts with messages of motivation and support. You really are a great community of people to be part of – THANK YOU! I’ll…

TICK OFF MILES Long-distance runners build extra mitochondria – the body’s powerhouses – in muscles, allowing for longer runs with less effort, say experts at the University of Southern Denmark. Endurance athletes have twice as many mitochondria as inactive people, helping generate 25% more energy. STUDY IN THE SUN According to the University of Kent, stimulating the brain before exercise can delay leg tiredness by 15%. Participants reported less effort in exercise when experts applied non-invasive brain stimulation. We reckon reading in the open air would work just as well. SEIZE THE DAY Now spring has sprung, capitalise on the longer daylight hours with your training. Northwestern University experts have found that the body responds better to exercise during the day, when oxygen and your internal clock synchronise in muscle…

Now, we’re not suggesting that food should just be considered as fuel for training – we like a Friday-night trip to the pizza place or a Sunday pub roast as much as the next person. But watching your portion sizes at social events is a wise idea, according to Cornell University Food & Brand Lab scientists. Their study found that men were far more likely to overeat at social gatherings, which could negatively impact training efficiency. Ironically, eating more when out with the lads is perceived as a sign of virility and strength.…

Yorkshire anaesthetist Tom Hollins (right) was the surprise winner of the 2017 Montane Spine Race. ‘Britain’s most brutal race’ takes place on the 268-mile Pennine Way, England’s oldest and toughest National Trail. Tom, who banked more sleep early on, overtook former winners Pavel Paloncý (CZH) and Eugeni Rosello Sole (ESP) with around 30 miles to go, reaching the finish at Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders in the race’s second-fastest-ever time (99:25:36). “Most of it was a genuine pleasure,” Tom told TR. “Just running, eating and enjoying the views. But there were tough moments too. I didn’t enjoy Great Shunner Fell and Cross Fell in the dark and mist. Very disorientating. Those were nothing compared to Byrness onwards though. I planned to stop, but kept going to keep my gap…

The run was brutal,” says Australia’s Samantha Gash of her 3253km, 76-day, fundraising race across India. “The conditions were very tough; the road was filled with congested traffic, heavy fumes and smog, temperatures exceeded 40C, and humidity could be 80-90 per cent.” By the end of the second week, Samantha was unwell. “My tummy swelled up, I had a fever and running was brought down to a painful walk. Once over that, my muscles were shot from the body trying to repair other issues. But somehow I got through that and into a solid rhythm about a month in.” There were plenty of cultural differences and changes as she crossed India, too. “Language and dialect could change every 50km. The role of women varied wildly too, from the central northern…

Edinburgh’s Caroline McKay is thought to be the first woman to run the 95-mile West Highland Way in winter. “The 18 hours of darkness added a new dimension,” she told TR, of her December outing, which took her just over 24 hours. “The route never fails to challenge, no matter how many years you have under your belt.” Caroline, who’s completed Western States among other 100-milers, said she felt “out of it” at the end. “I was battling sickness. But was touched by the support. I had more people running with me than I have before, an example of our amazing running community in Scotland.” She completed the WHW race in the summer in 19.5 hours. • Caroline is fundraising for Link Community Development: www.uk.virgin moneygiving.com/caroline mckay…

This is your chance to win one of four trail-race entries and Saturday-night festival tickets to Keswick Mountain Festival, 8-11 June in the Lake District. Come and meet the Trail Running team and choose from the Salomon 5k, 10k, 25k and 50k trail races, starting and finishing at this exciting outdoor festival in Crow Park. These are fantastic routes along single-track trails through ancient bluebell woodland, stunning valleys and mountainsides (look out for our feature on the 10k race next issue, on sale 11 May). Editor Claire Maxted will be running the 25k race and host top endurance trail runners Jasmin Paris and Nicky Spinks speaking at the Theatre by the Lake Mountain Festival, 5pm Friday 9 June. And you can spend any extra energy boogying to headline act KT…

Are you a committed trail-running blogger? Do you need the latest Inov-8 running kit, training advice and a free race entry? Are you ready to dedicate your social media to your next big race? Trail Running magazine is looking for four readers to take on our #committedinov8 challenge – blogging and social-media-ing (yes, that’s a word) about your training for an Inov-8-sponsored Lakeland Trails or Maverick Races event. They offer a challenge for all – from 5k and 10k, to half-marathon and marathon distances, right up to a 110k ultra. Our four winners will choose the one that takes them to the next level, and attend a glamorous studio shoot on Tuesday 9 May in Trail Running’s Peterborough office, where they will be completely kitted out in top-level Inov-8 kit,…

All our readers – including our #Run1000Miles ambassadors – remember when they first started trail running, and no one ever got everything right first time. Here are their wise words to help you avoid their rookie mistakes JACOB FREDERICK FITZGERALD, BRIDGE OF ALLAN, STIRLING My biggest rookie mistake was not strengthening weak glutes and my core. Avoid it by… doing a mixture of body-weight lunges forwards and sideways, planks and squats. Just one or two sets of ten a week is enough to start with. Also, stretch your quads, glutes, IT band and hamstrings, and focus more on hill reps than long miles. DARREN ONYEJEKWE PERSONAL TRAINER & CALISTHENICS COACH @BODYWEIGHT_D My biggest rookie mistake was focusing too much on pace and not enough on form. Avoid it by… prioritising…

As with all extreme mountain challenges, the Ring of Steall race has a mandatory kit list, so make sure you pack light, well-fitting versions of the items below: WATERPROOF JACKET Must have taped seams and a hood. Even if the weather seems brilliant blue-skied at the start, this is Scotland. WATERPROOF TROUSERS Again, these need to have taped seams making them fully waterproof. SPARE WARM TOP You won’t regret carrying this once you get to the top of the mountain and the gloriously fresh wind starts biting into you. HAT AND GLOVES If you keep extremities toasty, the rest of your body will stay warmer. FELL- OR MOUNTAIN-RUNNING SHOES Good grip is vital, so look for shoes with widely spaced, deep lugs – tractors for your feet. WATER When racing…

SALOMON EXO PRO ¾ TIGHT 110g Men’s M www.salomon.com £85 These well-cut, super-light and wonderfully supportive tights are made from polyamide and elastane. A clever honeycomb knit provides light compression on all but the back of the knees, making these very comfortable to wear – it looks cool too. They offer reflective details, a zipped pocket, two gel pockets and grippy cuffs to stop them rucking up. VERDICT Quite pricey but really well designed; great to run in. KALENJI KANERGY ¾ TIGHTS 175g Men’s M www.decathlon.co.uk £28 These performance-enhancing compression tights are good value if they fit you well. We found the lack of stretch on the compression panels around the legs supportive but quite uncomfortable, so try before you buy. They are made from a polyamide/elastane mix and feature…

SCOTT TRAIL RC TR 4 PACK 230g  www.scott-sports.com £80 This lightweight pack weighs in at the bottom end of our review’s range, with just a four-litre capacity; it bumps up to five with the addition of two 500ml soft flasks, which can be carried by the pack. Even the fabric used is minimally constructed, with the result being a breathable and stretchy vest for runners who like to hit the trails unburdened. VERDICT Stylish pack with enough capacity for mountain runs. RAIDLIGHT ULTRA VEST OLMO 5L 390g  www.raidlight.com £60 Named after living ultra-running legend Marco Olmo, the Olmo 5L is kitted out with pockets, netting and buckles. Saying that, it felt lightweight and close fitting even when careering over bumpy ground – there was no ‘bounce’, which gets a big…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY The New Forest National Park was once a royal hunting ground. It spans approximately 150 square miles and includes pasture land, heathland and forest. This great route starts at Deerleap, which gets its name from the practice of encouraging deer to enter parks through or over ‘deer leaps’ – gaps in the boundary fence. The area is a beautiful mixture of pine forest, leafy woods and heathland, where you will see ponies, cows and sometimes donkeys and deer on your run. The route is unmarked, and some navigation is required, especially though the woods and finding the sandy tracks across the heath. The trail changes underfoot from stony track to rooty forest and wet bogland in the low areas. It’s a wonderful way to experience the…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY Talybont-on-Usk makes a great base for a wide range of outdoor activities. The running is varied, from the straightforward Brecon and Monmouthshire canal towpath to the more challenging mountain trails. Route-finding and resilience are key to enjoying a long day out on the mountain above the sheep-filled pastures and meandering River Usk. On a good day stunning views abound; on a bad day you’ll be lucky to see your own feet! This route takes in a little bit of everything. Starting and finishing in Talybont at Henderson Hall, you’ll pass the 13th-century church of St Meugan (Llanfeugan); a short detour south from Waun Rydd would take in the memorial to a crashed Canadian Wellington Bomber; and, finally, the superb Carn Pica, before dropping down to Talybont…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY Stonehaven is a small seaside town in Aberdeenshire. The town is set in a large cove with a long beach and a quaint harbour that bustles with small sailboats and a few local krill boats. The town is popular with locals and holidaymakers alike, and is home to the birthplace of the deep-fried Mars bar and arguably the best chippy in the UK. The coast path south of the town winds uphill past the prominent Black Hill war memorial and several steep inlets, where it isn’t uncommon to see seals wallowing in the surf. It won’t just be the pace that takes your breath away but the stunning Dunnottar Castle perched high above the waves. Enjoy the rolling coast path before escaping the sea breeze inland,…

MARCH 2017 Sat 11 Thames Meander, Surrey Half or full marathon along flat, scenic riverside. www.hermesrunning.com Loggerheads Trail, Denbighshire 5 or 10k across rough terrain in North Wales. www.walkrunclwydian.co.uk The Mighty Deerstalker Rat Race, Scottish Borders 10k fell run in late evening, with post-race festivities afterwards. www.ratrace.com Sun 12 The Jackals Run, Lancashire 10k, half or marathon across the West Pennine Moors. www.wolfpackchallenges.com Sat 18 Coastal Trail Series, Sussex 10k, half-marathon, marathon or ultra over dramatic cliffs. www.endurancelife.com New Forest Running Festival, Hampshire 50 or 75k ultra runs across undulating terrain. www.rgactiveevents.com Hardmoors 55, North Yorkshire 55-mile ultra running from Helmsley to Guisborough, through the North York Moors. www.hardmoors110.org.uk Sat 18-Sun 19 Gin Pit Double Marathon, Greater Manchester Complete the 26.2-mile course twice over two days. www.marathonandahalf.co.uk Sun 19 Up…

 Imagine lining up at the foot of Pen y Fan for a 15-mile trail run, one that climbs immediately to the summit, the highest peak in South Wales. Imagine mentally preparing for that same run to veer away from the mountain for miles, only to turn back on itself and climb back over the summit. Ready? Right, now imagine slinging a 40lb Bergen on your back, and kicking off those running shoes for a pair of heavy boots. ‘The Fan Dance will punish the unprepared and humble even the most assured competitors’ The Fan Dance replicates, as closely as possible, the final stage of SAS selection. It is manned by ex-special forces staff, both to increase the authenticity of the event and because, in the event of emergency, they’re the…

RUTH JONES Ruth reveals the nine newbie mistakes you won’t make if you read this feature, p34 NIK COOK Nik makes sure you get strong not skinny with sensible, real-life nutrition advice, p70 ELISE DOWNING Our #Run1000Miles ambassador shares her round-the-UK running journey, p52 SEAN MCFARLANE Sean shows you how to plan your own two-day trail-running adventure, p44 JEN & SIM BENSON The authors of Wild Running reveal their top 10 trail routes this issue, p91 JEFF MCCARTHY Our Best Blogger Award winner 2015 interviews the McKenna bros, p114 /trailrunningmag @trailrunningmag /trailrunningmag tr@bauermedia.co.uk…

What? Explosive, rapid movements usually involving some kind of jump, plyometric exercises are used to build power and speed in muscles. By making muscles exert maximum force repeatedly, you train them to keep working when you hit a steep incline out on the trails. Why? These movements stimulate several different muscle groups at the same time in a short session. Aside from economy of time, they improve athletic performance, building strength and muscular endurance by training your fast-twitch muscle fibres, as well as coordination and balance. Where? Find anywhere with a bit of space or something to jump onto, and you’re good to go. Just remember to keep the number of reps low but intensity and effort high.…

A higher metabolism increases the rate at which your body converts food into energy, helping to minimise any spare tyres. Running is a great way to keep your metabolism firing on all cylinders, but it’s by no means the only way – following large-scale research, Texas A&M University dietitians have identified the best. They include: regular exercise, eating leafy vegetables, strength training, snacking healthily, sleeping well and avoiding stress. Make those small daily changes and you should see a big improvement.…

Bob Graham winter-record holder and Dragon’s Back Race 2015 winner, Jim set a new Charlie Ramsay Round winter record (22:23) on 22 January, then on 12 February smashed out a winter Paddy Buckley record (21:37)! Why a winter Ramsay? It was a Thursday and I was looking for something to do at the weekend – also my 40th. I was considering a Paddy Buckley, then Konrad Rawlik and Jasmin Paris said “Come to Scotland” and things were soon out of control. And the conditions? Technical and wintry, so difficult. There were also places where we were moving really fast. You described it as your best-ever birthday party... I can’t think of a better way to see out my thirties. These rounds are very much a team effort. We do this…

Aleks Kashefi is close to finishing his run across Europe, from North Cape, Norway, to the bottom of Spain, the first person known to have done so. The hardest parts were in the Arctic circle, where temperatures dropped to -12C, with 12in of snow. “I had no idea if I could do this or not. The whole ‘quit job and just go’ scared the crap out of me. I have no background in sport and have led a life that chased after money for things. But I wanted to inspire the younger generation to be unafraid of failure and challenges.” Follow Aleks at @Bare FootAleks and www.barefootaleks.wordpress.com…

Andy Berry has run the second-fastest winter Bob Graham Round. In January, the Durham fell runner dashed round in 18:41, 23 minutes behind Jim Mann’s record – 10 minutes ahead of his own summer time. This February, Camille Herron set a new women’s course record on the Tararwera Ultramarathon, New Zealand, in a time of 8:56:00, and Jim Walmsley won with a men’s course record of 7:23:32. Find out more at ww.iancorless.org/podcast/ Prime minister Theresa May has recognised runner and adventurer Dr Andrew Murray with the Point of Light award. Health campaigner Dr Andrew has raised over £170,000 for charities on record-breaking runs.…

‘It’s the basics of running that are the foundations.’ You look as if you’ve raced already mate,” came an unwelcome comment from a fellow competitor on the start line of the Kielder Marathon. He was right: I looked and felt shambolic. I’d come straight from a night shift, so had had little sleep and nothing decent to eat. Not even the ultra-light clothing and incredible GPS watch I was wearing could save me. I ran a personal worst and sulked all the way home. I thought back to Kenya, where I had once spent a few weeks working as a doctor with some British and American athletes. In each of the last ten years, 90% or more of the world’s fastest marathon times have been run by athletes from either…

What better way to de-stress after a tough week than a run and shoe shopping? Kim Kenny Today I did the Waterways 50k. Legs feel smashed but I’m now at 140 miles for January. Victoria Yeomans #Run1000Miles Kips76 Mum’s doing #Run1000Miles in 2017. I izzn’t. Bramble n Chilli BTs Fantastic snowy run in the Peaks with fellow 1000-miler David Keogh. Claire Davis Frosty beard #Run1000Miles John Lovenberry First run-commute. How else am I going to fit in #Run1000Miles with a baby and a job?! Sophie Ruffles Woo hoo! Came home to an @Trail RunningMag Ruff for #Run 1000Miles! This is not a suggested use. Jamie Kkir We like our Mondays blue! Join us to #Run1000Miles in 2017 and the chance to win new shoes #lovemyinov8s Inov-8 Staff Day 22 of…

ASK THE EXPERTS Email your questions to tr@bauermedia.co.uk or send a message over social media to get your training queries answered by the pros. PAUL HOBROUGH Founder of Physio & Therapy and physio to Steve Cram. www.physio andtherapyuk.co.uk SALLY FAWCETT An elite runner, physio and winner of the Montane Lakeland 50 in 2015. @sally_fawcett CASPAR ROSE Nutritionist and CEO of bespoke food service Fresh Fitness Food. www.freshfitnessfood.com JENN GASKELL 2015 Dragon’s Back Race finisher and Montane athlete competitor. @jenngaskell MATT BUCK Owner of coaching company Running Adventures. www.runningadventures.uk Q I’m averaging around 30k a week, but not getting any faster. Help! Dave O’Donoghue, Swindon A Jenn Gaskell studies for a PhD in Mathematical Physics on top of her running, so we trust her judgement: ÒMix up your…

BALANCE AND AGILITY Vary between single-leg balance exercises and traversing a secure plank to improve your stability. Side squat lunges underneath branches will develop your proprioception, and running along a forest trail with sticks to hop over will increase your agility. OBSTACLE CORE SKILLS Pull-ups, varying between overhand and underhand grips, will increase your upper-body strength but also, crucially, your grip strength for navigating hanging obstacles. Mix in some leg raises from a hanging bar and swing along a set of monkey bars sideways, with your knees bent, to improve core strength. PLYOMETRICS Practise landing from a knee-height platform , jumping down with a hand and foot landing to reduce the impact on your legs. Set up a low obstacle – like a branch – and perform running single-leg jumps…

OUR EXPERTS We use in-house and independent experts with sports and exercise science backgrounds and many years of trail-kit testing under their belts so you can trust our kit reviews. JEN AND SIM BENSON Authors of Wild Running, married couple Jen and Sim test out the best three-quarter-length leggings, p78. HANNAH JAMES Gear editor Hannah hits the trails with a four-legged friend and all the latest running gear for dogs, p89. JACK HART Staff writer Jack weighs up the options when it comes to choosing a middleweight hydration pack, p84. DAVE TAYLOR Fell-running coach Dave gets to grips with the best shoes for taking on muddy mountain trails, p82.…

SALOMON INTENSITY ¾ TIGHT 145g Women’s S  www.salomon.com £50 Packed with running technology, these tights are perfect for long, hilly adventures. Light, all-over compression gives support and comfort, while mesh behind the knees and grippy print on the thighs mean they’re perfect for climbs. A wide, elasticated drawcord waist, zipped back pocket, two gel pockets and reflective details add the finishing touch. VERDICT Supportive and full of features; ideal for long days in the hills. ARC’TERYX KAPTA CROP TIGHT 170g Women’s S  www.arcteryx.com £50 Made from Suncore/polyester mix, these tights really move with you as you run. They feel fantastic: light and breathable, yet protective. The wide waistband has a pocket and an innovative flat drawcord system. There’s a mesh back panel and reflective detail. Longer-cut than most, these don’t…

SHOCK ABSORBER ULTIMATE RUN BRA £40 Quick to do up, this is a well-made, durable favourite, with comfy, wide chest straps and easily adjusted shoulder straps. Thick but quick-drying double-layer material is warm and means it works as a crop top too. Excellent support for medium to large boobs C-DD. TRIUMPH TRIACTION EXTREME LITE £36 New, super-light version with regular or racer-back shoulder strap positions. It’s trickier to put on in racer-back mode, but worth it for extra support. Thanks to light, wicking fabric, you can barely tell you’re wearing it. Great value too. Excellent support for medium to large boobs B-DD. SHEFIT ULTIMATE SPORTS BRA £50 A unique design, featuring zip-up front and Velcro fastening on shoulder and chest straps, to any level you like. It feels a bit…

There’s something about springtime. It always feels a little bit like magic, watching as the natural world reawakens and the trees, fields and fells unfurl into a blaze of vibrant green. It’s a particularly exciting time for runners, when the cold, dark trails we’ve been pounding for months finally start to grow warmer and brighter. Winter training’s done and the miles stored in our legs are ready to be unleashed on new challenges and new trails. If you’re looking for some running inspiration to fill these longer, lighter days then we have some absolute crackers for you – from the breathtaking high reaches of Snowdonia and the Lake District, to the leafy trails of the New Forest and wave-washed pebbles of Dunwich beach. There’s something to get every runner excited…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY This is a good circuit, in one of the more secluded corners of the Peak District. Navigation along well-signed paths is easy enough, while the terrain is constantly changing, dropping through layers of woodland alongside the River Dane and traversing pasture farmland before heading back over exposed moorland. Always interesting, it’s more thought-provoking than fast: sometimes muddy and sometimes rooty, with the odd low branch to avoid. Eventually the route emerges into meadowland. Climbing up and around the top of the hill gives far-reaching views out across the surrounding countryside, before a good, wide trail drops off the moors and down through the splendidly-named Forest Wood, past the rock formations at Lud’s Church and back to the Dane and then the start. The route can easily…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY The route of the annual Snowdonia Quarter is a coast-to-coast traverse from near Porthmadog in the West to Conwy in the North, incorporating the ascent of Snowdon. Following 44 miles of mesmerising National Park, with innumerable steep climbs and descents, this is the ultimate trail-runner’s challenge. Make no mistake, the geography is unforgiving and runners must be mentally and physically prepared. The route starts relatively flat, but 10 miles in the true nature of Snowdonia is revealed, culminating in climbing to the top of Wales’ highest peak. From here the descent is quick, but there is still another breathtaking 25 miles through Capel Curig, traversing the edge of Llyn Cowlyd (the deepest lake in North Wales), and innumerable other natural beauty spots. www.endurancelife.com GET THIS ROUTE…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY DAY1 START: LINGHOLM The winding, seven-mile valley of Borrowdale is perfect for trail running. This route, following that of the half marathon, incorporates some of the best Lakeland scenery and a fantastic variety of terrain. It takes in stunning lakeshore trails along Derwentwater, a mixture of single-track trails winding through the Borrowdale Valley; two big climbs passing through the small traditional Lakeland villages of Grange, Rosthwaite and Watendlath; the famous Ashness Bridge; and Surprise View. Passing back along the beautiful viewpoint of Friar’s Crag, you’ll finish at Crow Park. Borrowdale Trail Half Marathon will take place Saturday 8 July, 2017, along with 5k and 13k route options. Or, if you fancy something longer, the Scafell Pike Trail Marathon will be on the following day. www.highterrainevents.co.uk GET…

I don’t know about you, but as soon as Christmas is out of the way, winter feels a tad pointless, January and February spent plodding along in wind and rain. Well, friends, runners, countrymen, fear not: balmier trails are on the horizon. With the days getting longer and the mercury rising, it’s time to make the most of the fitness you’ve forged throughout winter. And, with new races popping up all the time, there’s never been a better year to leave the pavements behind in favour of country trails. The grass really is greener. WHERE'S MY RACE? If you're organising a trail run – or know someone who is – listing it in Trail Running makes sense, doesn't it? After all, how are enthusiastic runners going to know about it…

Fori have served up four flavoured bars: Chilli Beef, Piri Piri Chicken, Thai Turkey and Moroccan Lamb. Each contains high-quality protein and wholesome ingredients, such as sunflower seeds, dried apricots, cranberries, herbs and spices. All four bars are gluten-free with no added sugar, and no artificial flavours, preservatives or sweeteners. Each tender bite delivers a definite kick from the spices, subtle sweetness from the fruit and appealing texture from the seeds. One bar provides about 150kcal and 20g protein, with low levels of carbohydrates – just 3-5g depending on the flavour. They’re a rich source of leucine, an amino acid that’s crucial for repairing muscle after a training session. VERDICT Fori bars are great as a high-protein, tasty, convenient post-workout snack. Perfect for low-endurance training days or a speedy recovery…

1 FITNESS BEATS STRESS Feeling the strain of office life, with all its suffocating deadlines and awful coffee? Get outside and run at lunchtime. University of Basel scientists studied a group’s reaction to stress while following an exercise programme, and found that participants’ perception of stress and cardiovascular risk facts were moderated by corresponding fitness levels. Proof that running is the best stress-buster in all seasons. 2 TRAIN YOUR GREY MATTER Brainiacs at the Wake Forest School of Medicine in America have confirmed what many of us already believed – running helps you stay smart. The researchers divided study participants into two groups; one completed regular aerobic exercise over a six-month period, while the other performed a stretching regime. Both types of exercise improved brain function in the temporal lobe…

Scotland’s James Stewart, 100K international and 2016 West Highland Way Race-winner, has continued his excellent 2016 into 2017 with a win at Rocky Raccoon 100 in the US. “I feel sore,” he told TR the day after. “Accomplished, but sore.” His plan was to be in the mix at around 60 miles. “At 63 miles, I took the lead and stayed there. I pretty much landed bang on what I set out to do. Is this my greatest moment as a runner? It is certainly up there. However, pulling on a Scotland vest last year was my proudest moment.” ■ See more about James at www.jamesstewart13.com. Rocky Raccoon: www.tejastrails.com/rocky100…

WATCH IT! Summit Fever Media’s directors’ cut of the 2017 Montane Spine Race TV is being made into 268 limited-edition DVDs. Order yours at: www.bit.ly/2jvWz73 RUN IT! A new British Mountain Marathon Series includes Marmot Dark Mountains, the Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon (June) and the ROC Mountain Marathon (September). Visit www.mountainmarathon.com LEARN IT! Enjoy workshops, presentations and drink beer at June’s friendly Ultra Festival in Wiltshire. Bruce Fordyce was last year’s guest of honour. Visit www.ultraevolution.com/festival GO TO IT! Top endurance runners and Inov-8 ambassadors Nicky Spinks and Jasmin Paris will speak at Keswick Mountain Festival, 5pm 9 June. www.keswick mountainfestival.co.uk SKILL UP! Learn from Paul Tierney, Charlie Sproson and Damian Hall at Mountain Run’s Ultra Trail Running Skills Weekend, in the Lake District on 18-19 March. Learn more at www.mountainrun.co.uk…

After 52 years and 39 days, the world’s longest-known run streak ended in January, when legendary road-runner Ron Hill, 78, finally had a rest day. Joe Labuschagne’s run across Africa has ended prematurely. His 12,000km, year-long mission started in July. When he was diagnosed with a stress fracture he continued on a bike. But in Ethiopia, ‘the leg finally gave up’. A Hardrock 100 Mile Endurance Run finisher has started a lawsuit against the hard-to-get-into race, claiming its lottery is illegal. Aaron Denberg aims “to [make it] truly open to all, and not just the select few.” Hardrock say Denberg’s accusations are “riddled with factually wrong statements”.…

/trailrunningmag @trailrunningmag @trailrunningmag @TRAILRUNNINGMAG You’ve been tweeting… Okay I’ll admit it, I may have a few too many running shoes on the go at the moment! Giles Thurston Am I stupid to set my alarm for 6:30am on a Sunday morning just so I can see where a new trail goes? Steve Powell Started making my own bars. Dates, dried banana, honey and pecans in a food processor. Then chill. Jake Robbo 10 on the North Downs, gym, then huge Sunday lunch! My main miles done! Taper time for The Coastal Challenge. Susie Chan @tcccostarica Muddy 10km trail run + mental dog = bath time. Sarah Read Did I get wet feet going through the ice at minus 32 Celsius? Here’s the blog: www.docandrewmurray.com/ www.docandrewmurray.com/genghis-khan-marathon-2017-done genghis-khan-marathon-2017-done @MerrellUK Dr Andrew Murray Can’t…

Ambassador Jeff McCarthy has this advice to anyone who feels the #Run1000 Miles goal is a long way off: “Did you sign up to #Run1000Miles with some apprehension? I did! But, like nearly 4000 others, the important thing is you’re giving it a go. The worst that can happen is we don’t succeed. But for many of us, we may still achieve our highest-ever mileage year, so it’s all good! This isn’t a January challenge to be blitzed and then drop. There’s plenty of time to clock up the miles. The vast majority will struggle with illness or injury at some point – many already have. So take each day at a time. Focus on incremental chunks – 2-3 miles per day, or 5 miles twice a week with…

1 GET KITTED OUT Trail shoes are key, as are multiple layers to account for all weathers. Invest in a waterproof jacket for rain, and breathable socks for comfort. 2 LEARN TO MAP READ Whether you’re planning your first foray on a new trail or orienteering on the run, it’s an essential skill. 3 EMBRACE THE MUD With hills, unpredictable weather and slower pace, running off-road can be challenging – but it will make you a stronger athlete. 4 START OFF SMALL Allow your training to progress gradually. Begin on undulating terrain and in a few years you may be mountain-running. 5 TALK TO EXPERIENCED RUNNERS Ask their advice on local trails to explore, swap ideas on where is best to run in which season, and get inspired.…

Fad diets come and go, with some sticking around long enough to gain a loyal following. How does raw food stack up against the competition? PALEO The ‘caveman’ diet is simple: shun all processed foods and eat only what your prehistoric ancestors would have been able to find on the trails. Crucially, this includes meat and allows cooking, so covers a wider sphere of nutritional options than raw food. It steps ahead in the pecking order for that reason. GLUTEN-FREE It’s almost something of a status symbol these days to eat gluten-free carbs – like an instant upgrade to your social media account. Gluten is a mixture of proteins that bind wheat-based carbs together, giving the dough an elastic texture; you don’t need to cut it out unless you’re actually…

MORE OF KINTYRE The Kintyre Way is 100 miles long. In the south, the Machrihanish to Amod Farm section is superb, as is Skipness to Tarbert in the north. They’re both so good that I’d recommend running out and back on each of them over a separate weekend, with overnight camping. THE EMPTY OCHILS It never fails to amaze me how quiet the Ochil Hills in central Scotland are. They’re less than an hour from well over half of Scotland’s population. So base yourself somewhere like the lovely village of Dollar, get a map or look at Strava, and enjoy. EASY-PEASEY BEN LAWERS Here is a fabulous multi-munro run, which includes one of Scotland’s biggest peaks but is infinitely manageable. Starting at the now unused Ben Lawers visitors’ centre, run…

Marathons can make hearts or they can break hearts – it all comes down to your preparation. Jogging off for the occasional 5k with some intermittent stretching thrown in for good measure will get you nothing but a slap on the wrist from the on-site race-day St John’s team. But if you take a second to think about your training and include some vital strength and conditioning in your fitness regime, you’ll head to the start line brimming with confidence, safe in the knowledge that you are both physically and mentally prepared to take on that infamous 26.2 miles. We’ve put together this easy-to-follow four-week programme to help you get through your marathon training injury-free. It features six simple exercises, and should be used in the month before your marathon…

WALSHPB ELITE 250g (UK 6.5)  www.normanwalshuk.com £70 Once the firm favourite of fell runners, these shoes are still handmade in Bolton. The uppers are made of fast-drying, water-resistant material, whilst the stiff outsole uses Walsh’s registered pyramid grip pattern. A drop of 6mm gave enough precision for uneven terrain and sufficient cushioning for harder ground. The fit felt narrow, and these were the tightest of all of the shoes on test. The 7mm lugs gave excellent grip, particularly on wet grass. An affordable, no-frills shoe for training or racing over a range of terrains. VERDICT If it ain’t broke! Still a great shoe for all conditions. VJ SPORT IROCK 2 225g (UK 6.5)  www.vjsport.fi £110 Targeted at orienteerers and obstacle course racers, the Irock 2s were the lightest and most…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY Exeter’s best kept running secret? This run is an urban escape that covers a half-marathon of paths and trails linking most of Exeter’s parks and green spaces. The terrain underfoot is quite varied, with some muddy sections after wet weather. There are short sections of road, but also gravel paths by streams and winding trails with tree roots to keep you light on your feet. It’s a great route for an Exeter resident as it’s accessible and feels rural despite not leaving the city. There are also a couple of nice long hills, which are well worth it – not just for training, but for the views at the top. If you haven’t got the time or fitness for the full lap, it can also be…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY Despite a stretch of (quiet) road, this run includes a wonderful variety of scenery, terrain and landscape. From the pub, it crosses fields to reach the Coast Path, passing the eerie disused power station. There’s an enjoyable section through the wilds of RSPB Minsmere bird reserve before climbing up to the row of white coastguard cottages for great views along the coast and out to sea. Here the route turns inland over the beautiful expanse of Dunwich Heath, ablaze with purple heather in summer, and through woodland before following the road into Eastbridge village. Passing the Kenton Hills nature trail, the run follows blue waymarkers, heading across the Sizewell Belts and Leiston Common. Finally, markers lead through peaceful woodland before returning to Sizewell. www.wildrunning.net GET THIS…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY The first half of this run, across the vast wilderness of Rannoch Moor, is one of the classic stages of the West Highland Way. From Victoria Bridge at the start, it follows the clear path of Telford’s Parliamentary Road northeast through a sea of heather and bog, surrounded by towering mountains on either side. In fine weather, this is a place of wild and peaceful beauty, turning to an exposed and foreboding arena on the arrival of a storm. Underfoot, conditions are generally good and runnable. The second half of the run is the most dramatic section of the Way, as it climbs to the highest point on the route. The final long descent to Kinlochleven is an enjoyable finish, with excellent views. www.wildrunning.net GET THIS…

DISTANCE ASCENT TIME DIFFICULTY DAY2 START: BORROWDALE Travelling from Borrowdale to Ambleside point to point allows you to take in the highest mountain in England, alongside some of the most technical trails in the region. Scafell Pike is iconic to say the least, but this route takes you past the site of the first rock climb in the country, Napes Needle, which was conquered by Walter Parry Haskett-Smith in the June of 1886. This technical trail leads to the Corridor Route and then to the summit of England. Traversing the Scafell Massif delivers you into Great Langdale, via the Band and to the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, which is steeped in Lakeland history. Technical trails then give way to extremely runnable single-tracks, taking in Wordsworth country, until you reach the…