Innholdsfortegnelse for April - May 2019 i Trail Running

Regularity wins Having set bedtimes and waking hours could benefit your heart and metabolic health. Researchers at Duke Health and the Duke Clinical Research Institute published findings in Scientific Reports in September of a correlation (rather than cause-and-effect relationship) between sleep irregularity and higher blood sugar, higher blood pressure, depression and stress. Be an early bird Night owls have a higher risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, according to the first scientific review of its type, published by Advances in Nutrition in November. After looking at more than 100 separate studies, the scientists noted that factors contributing to poorer health may be linked to the dietary habits associated with those going to bed late. Power nap Elite runners are known to take afternoon naps, and science has recently…

4 million years ago The ability to run long distances differentiated our evolutionary ancestors from their tree-dwelling forebears as it enabled them to wear down their prey. Many of our physical characteristics, such as our excellent sweat system, give us the edge over animals when it comes to keeping going for miles. 1829BC It’s logical to assume humans have held races throughout their history, but the Tailteann Games, first held in ancient Ireland around 4000 years ago, are the earliest known contests to involve running. 776BC The first Olympics took place in ancient Greece, but early editions didn’t feature long-distance events. 490BC Besides being a sport, running had practical purposes for the ancient Greeks, who employed ‘couriers’ to cover relay information over long distances. Pheidippides was the most famous of…

Congrats on another GB vest. How does it feel? This will be my fourth time representing GB – my third time on the trails and once on the road (100km). It’s such an honour to be asked to wear the GB vest and run. The older I get the more I fully appreciate that privilege! How was your 2018? Last year was very unfulfilling for me. I did have some good runs but my expectations were never met. I did complete my first 100-miler (UTMB), but it wasn’t a satisfying race at all – more a survival thing! My plans for 2019 include trying to remedy that. My result may not improve, but I want to know I really gave it my best shot. What do you owe your longevity…

“It’s a challenge that has really pushed me,” Frances Mills told TR. Mills is running the coast of Britain, self-supported, over three winters. “But in a lot of ways this run has been a journey at home, along the edges of what is familiar.” As TR went to press she was running “a couple of hundred miles round Anglesey and the North Welsh coast to Liverpool. That’ll make it 900 miles this winter, 2200 miles in total over two winters. “Running for me is not a race, nor a question of speed and timing. It’s a way to explore, to find those new trails, see different and varied landscapes and to experience winter running – something I have avoided for years and to my own detriment!” • Find out more…

Simon Gray has set a record for the Frog Graham Round of 11hrs and 49mins for the 40+ mile swimrun in the Lake District. Battling seriously cold water and thick ice on the fells, it was only the fourth known winter Frog Graham. Runners from the Northern Fells Running Club cleaned graffiti from a bothy – on Christmas Day. The group smartened the Lingy Hut in the Lake District’s Northern Fells. “Thanks to all; well done on a good job,” said a club spokesman. A dog accidentally ran a half marathon in the US, finishing seventh. Ludivine, a two-year-old hound from Alabama, snuck out of her owner’s garden to join runners at the Trackless Train Trek Half Marathon, running 13.1 miles in 1:32:56.…

GREAT GRIP The new Roclite 275 – as worn by Jasmin Paris when winning and breaking the course record at the 268-mile Spine Race – is among Inov-8’s new offering of trail running shoes to feature grapheneinfused rubber outsoles. This versatile shoe can handle all terrains, from mud, to hard trail, wet rock and everything in between. YOU SAW IT HERE FIRST Montane have become headline sponsors of Sheffield Adventure Film Festival, scheduled for March 22-24. In 2018 Montane attended Keswick and Kendal Mountain Festivals, and off the back of their success have pledged to attend more grass-roots events in 2019, starting with Sheffield. shaff.co.uk JUST IN! SALOMON SPEEDCROSS 5, £124.99 Available from sportsshoes.com, this super-grippy, competitively light model is the latest version of the popular Speedcross range from Salomon.…

To put you in the picture, Inov-8 has been working on using graphene in its shoes and the Mudclaw G260 is the first super off-roader in its stable to feature this virtually indestructible material, which is 200 times stronger than steel. The rubber studs have graphene added to their construction to make them stronger, more flexible and longer-lasting. Inov-8 Product & Marketing Director Michael Price said: “The rubber studs look more like claws or fangs. Through extensive testing we have found that these new shaped studs give the best possible traction when running or obstacle racing over muddy terrain and, unlike racing spikes, also provide underfoot comfort on harder ground. “By adding the wonder-material graphene to the rubber it makes the studs 50% stronger, 50% more elastic and 50% harder…

MEET THE EXPERT British-born racer and coach Ian Sharman now lives in the USA, where he has won the Leadville Trail 100 race on a more than impressive four occasions. Success is his middle name, so Ian’s just the man to spell out exactly what it takes to plan and execute the perfect race. Get in touch at sharmanultra.com PLANNING Start with this question: how many races do you want to run? There’s no definitive answer, but to help you think about it, past experience and fitness and how far you intend to race are a great starting point. Professional marathoners, for instance, limit themselves to two marathons a year, as well as some shorter events, but they need to be at 100% of their physical potential each time. Generally…

So, two different approaches that are, in many cases, converging at a ‘do it all’ point in watch design. But which is the right watch for you? We tested the best smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 4; the best watch from Garmin’s Forerunner range that’s capable of streaming music, the Garmin 645 Music; and the Suunto 9, to illustrate a company playing to its strengths and not diverting R&D budget to music or payment platforms. These are all offered at a similar price point of between £400 and £500.…

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. SARAH RUSSELL Qualified running coach and expert in biomechanics. sarah-russell.co.uk PETER ANTONIO Trainer/nutritionist, Uni of Birmingham. sportandfitness.bham.ac.uk ROBBIE BRITTON GB ultra runner, sponsored by TomTom and Profeet. JENN GASKELL Montane-sponsored trail and ultra runner, who’s also training as a mathematical scientist. TOM CLEARY Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist and mindfulness teacher. tom-cleary.co.uk Q How should I deal with cattle on a run? Claudia Briggs, Haverford West A "Cows can be notoriously unpredictable", says Sarah Russell. “I’ve witnessed and experienced some nasty situations, including a friend being attacked and butted to the ground. There are other times, however, when the cows don’t even look up from chewing…

MEET THE EXPERT Simon James is an experienced mountain leader and trail running guide. A veteran of the UTMB and Marathon Des Sables, he's also an expert in self-sufficient trail running. runthewild.co.uk Trail running is all about how best to economise. I first came across this expression when guiding a run on the Tour du Mont Blanc last year and have been fascinated with it ever since. I'm not talking about watching my weekly grocery budget; I'm talking about the many facets that make up the trail running experience. From techniques to what to carry on the trail and everything that becomes part of your #trailrunninglife, and makes the best of your time and passion for this engaging sport. Here's how... 1 TRAIN SMART The purpose of training is to…

JANJI M'S ROVER HOODIE $84 Used by Marc Abbott Used for 6 months I’m the new boy. New to the mag, but not to running. I raced my first 10k 35 years ago, and won a trail marathon once, with only one knee cap (long story). I like: tattoos, kind people, high fashion, cider, and leftfield running brands, like little-known Boston-based Janji. This fleece-backed mid-layer from the US company has been my go-to for every run in the last six months, in all but rain or snow. The elasticated hood negates the need for a hat on chilly days, pockets at the cuff and hip hold banknotes or cards, and the fit is superb. I’m fairly slight, but there’s enough room in this size S hoodie to accommodate a baselayer…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY This enjoyable circular route from Bideford Bridge initially follows the footpath alongside the A386 towards Torrington with views over the River Torridge. The route then joins the tree-lined Tarka Trail at Landcross before following the old railway that once served from Bideford to Torrington; at the first river bridge there are great views across Tarka country. The route turns left through deep woodland on a defined public right of way towards the sleepy village of Weare Giffard, with stair climbs and descents over soft ground. The route rejoins the road through Weare Giffard towards Bideford with views again across the Torridge valley and then the Tarka Trail near Annery Kiln. Continuing towards the iron bridge the trail eventually reaches the old railway platform at Bideford, finishing on…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY Standing at 363 metres high, Rivington Pike rises from the slopes of Winter Hill in the West Pennine Moors. Despite being close to the M61, this is a place that feels wild and remote, and the surrounding area has a great network of trails. If you can, take some time to wander around the Grade II listed tower and the ruined gardens. Our route follows clear paths up through Rivington Country Park to reach the wilds of Rivington Moor, climbing steeply over Rivington Pike before taking in a long sweep of open moorland. A thrilling descent off Winter Hill brings you around the hillside and down to the long, gleaming stretch of Rivington Reservoir to finish. • Trail Running magazine GET THIS ROUTE ON YOUR PHONE!…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY Coed-y-Brenin was the first of the UK’s dedicated mountain biking trail centres and is still the largest. A fantastic network of trails, with levels of difficulty to suit everyone, traverses the forest, where you’ll also find rivers, waterfalls and some tough climbs with airy mountain views from the top. Run Coed-y-Brenin is a brilliant addition to the centre, with a range of adventurous waymarked trails, from the 2.7-mile Sarn Helen short route to the challenging Half Marathon trail. There’s a café and visitor centre, including a well-stocked running shop, and you can stay on-site at the excellent Mostyn Cottage self-catering or B&B, right in the heart of the trails. This run follows the Goldrush trail, a fascinating and exciting route with plenty of hills, rooty singletrack and…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY At the northern end of the Isle of Skye, the Trotternish peninsula reaches northwards into the Minch. The long, beautiful, awe-inspiring ridgeline that runs north to south forming the peninsula’s jagged backbone is widely considered to be one of the best mountain traverses in Britain. It’s also a classic long-distance fell race on the Scottish running calendar. This route takes on the main part of the ridge, starting at Flodigarry and heading south to finish beyond the Old Man of Storr, the much-photographed pinnacle of rock that stands proud on the ridge. For the full traverse and to make logistics simpler you can continue onwards to finish in Portree. • Trail Running magazine GET THIS ROUTE ON YOUR PHONE! WWW.TRAILRUNNINGMAG.CO.UK/ROUTES…

MARCH 2019 Sat 9 Maverick Inov-8 Original, Liphook, Hampshire Run 7k, 13k or 22k across woodland, marked bridleways and a few technical descents. maverick-race.com Thames Meander, Surrey Half and full marathons along a flat scenic riverside trail, starting and finishing at the YMCA Hawker Centre HQ. hermesrunning.com Sat 9-Sun 10 Samphire 100, Samphire Hoe, Kent 100 miles around a 3.7-mile loop of a nature reserve created from 4.9 million cubic metres of chalk marl from the Channel Tunnel excavations. With six-hour and 24-hour options. saxon-shore.com West Pennine Moors Double Ultra Marathon Challenge, Darwen, Blackburn Two tough 30-milers across the wild moors of the West Pennine hills in two days. howlerevents.co.uk Sun 10 Harpenden Half Marathon, Harpenden, Hertfordshire A one-lap race over a testing mixture of trail, asphalt and grassy terrain.…

TOM EVANS Britain’s undisputed No.1 trail runner helps you prepare for your first race, p30. KILIAN JORNET The legend that is Kilian reveals a love of all things very, very hilly, p32. FIONA RUSSELL We sent her out to discover running the amazing Scottish lochs, p42. PAUL BARTON There’s nothing more he loves than wearing three watches, p64. MIKE GRATTON Former London Marathon winner looks at the last six weeks of prep, p72. MARC ABBOTT New man to our mag, he uses his kit expertise to take a look at shoes, p86. /trailrunningmag @trailrunningmag /trailrunningmag tr@bauermedia.co.uk…

What? Claimed to be the fastest shoes in the world, they were worn by Eliud Kipchoge when he smashed the world marathon record last year, and several other top elite runners swear by them. Such is their performance advantage, some predict they may be banned in the future. How? According to recent research at Grand Valley State University, the shoes propel the runner forward more efficiently. Why? It’s mainly to do with the thick foam midsole, but a carbon-fibre plate and other factors are involved, too, scientists at the University of Colorado, Boulder recently found. Wearing the shoes mean runners don’t have to work as hard with their ankles and toes. The special foam also means very little energy is lost with each step. Scott’s RC Supertrac trail shoes, which…

If you drink from a reusable water bottle on your runs, make sure you clean it regularly. That’s the reminder from experts after a recent study. Scientists at the Federal University of State of Rio de Janeiro tested 60 new and 30 used bottles at gyms. Reporting in the Journal of Exercise Physiology Online last August, they found 90% of the used bottles showed bacterial contamination, while none of the unused ones were contaminated. Six species of microorganisms were found, although 16.6% had no bacterial growth. CALORIE COUNT…

A horrible thought occurred to me the other day. Maybe I’m now one of those old and creeky runners. Can that be me? I am 50, after all, and I do appear to have at least one ache or pain every time I run But I had been mostly trying to ignore the niggles (just like I have been mostly trying to ignore my age since hitting the big five-o). However, after a summer of training to run my furthest race yet – the 50k Ochil Ultra in Scotland – and badly neglecting almost all forms of stretching (apart from to reach the wine glasses in the top cupboard), I realised I needed to reassess my approach. The pain I had in my right Achilles had moved to my left…

Spine Race winner Jasmin Paris is the headline inclusion as British Athletics announced strong teams for the IAU Trail World Championships in June. World Mountain Running champion Charlotte Morgan, Jo Meek (left), who was the leading female Briton at the 2017 and 2016 championships, Holly Page, Katie Kaars Sijpesteijn and Georgia Tindley complete a women’s team for the 45km race in Portugal. 2013 Trail World Champion Ricky Lightfoot returns to the men’s team after a long absence through injury. He’s joined by Jonathan Albon, who finished fourth at last year’s championships, and 2:15-marathoner Andrew Davies, who’s competed internationally in the Commonwealth Games, Mountain Running World Championships and 50k World Championships. France-based ultra ace Andy Symonds returns, while Kilian Jornet Bob Graham Round-pacer Carl Bell and Seb Batchelor complete the men’s…

GO TO IT! The Kendal Mountain Festival is touring the country from February to May, with inspirational speakers and ace adventure films. Find out more kendalmountaintour.com LEARN SKILLS! Damian Hall and coach Shane Benzie are hosting Mountain Ultra Skills courses in the Chilterns (March 24), and Brecon Beacons (May 4-5). damianhall.info LISTEN TO IT! An impressive lineup of speakers will be at attending this year’s Ultra and Trail Running Festival in the Yorkshire Dales. It takes place over the weekend of April 13-14. More info giggleswick.org.uk RACE IT! Registrations are now open for Race to the King (June 22-23), 53 miles along the South Downs Way, over either one or two days. More info at racetotheking.com GO TO IT! The Fort William Running Festival (July 27-28) has trail races, speakers…

An American trail runner has killed a mountain lion in “self-defence.” The Colorado man was attacked from behind by the young lion on a run, suffering bites to his face and wrist, but was able to fight back. US ultra-running star Camille Herron survived a car crash. The record-breaking runner walked away from the wreck with just soreness, and no major injuries, after being hit by another driver. “I feel like I dodged a bullet,” she said. A gangland hitman was convicted of two murders after police used his GPS fitness watch as evidence he had scouted out a victim’s house. Photos showed him wearing the same watch at Great Manchester Run.…

84% Trail 10% Fell “Definitely prefer trails. Sounds silly, but I have much more confidence on trails and they’re just so much fun!” Paul Joels 3% Road 1% A bit of everything “Running on the black stuff is fine... as a means of getting to a trail or from one trail section to another!” Neil Shoesmith 1% Snow 1% Grass “Trail, but I don’t mind if that trail has some snow on it!” Theresa Woodier…

1 SIGN UP ONLINE Visit www.run1000miles.co.uk to register. We’ve also designed new 2019 #Run1000Mile ruffs for you to wear while you complete your challenge. They’re on sale now for £7.50 – so order yours today, because they’re mega popular! 2 DO A PLEDGE Visit the website, download the #Run1000Miles pledge, sign it, take a picture of it and post it on social media to commit to the challenge. 3 JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP Sign up at facebook.com/groups/run1000miles. You’ll be part of a buzzing community sharing the joys and toils of the experience, boosting you to achieve your aims. 4 FILL IN THE TRACKER Download the mileage tracker from run1000miles.co.uk to record how you’re progressing towards the big 1000. 5 GET SOCIAL Tag your social media posts with #Run1000Miles and we’ll…

Vicky Hart is a regular visitor to Ambleside, whether taking part in races such as the Lakeland 100, running on the local fells or enjoying some family time. She says: “Ambleside is a perfect base for an outdoors family, with trails heading off in every direction. As well as fantastic running options, there are activities for the whole family, including a super play park in Rothay Park. One of our favourite routes is to head to the north and skirt around the edge of Rydal Water. We can paddle, explore Rydal Cave, and make the relatively easy climb up Loughrigg Fell to bag a Wainwright with the kids.”…

WEST HIGHLAND WAY RACE The iconic 96-mile race follows Scotland’s most popular long-distance path from Milngavie, just north of Glasgow, to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. The section from Balmaha to Inveroran hugs the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, the UK’s largest area of freshwater. The race, in June, is usually by ballot entry. westhighlandwayrace.org GLEN LYON ULTRA This 35-mile race in May offers runners a scenic route that takes in almost a complete loop of Loch Lyon, before heading over hills into Glen Lochay. runyabam.com/glen-lyon RUN MHOR 84 HALF MARATHON The Run Mhor 84 takes in views of two stunning lochs, Voil and Earn, as it follows a challenging route through the countryside of the Trossachs. The start and finish of the June event is Mhor 84 hotel.…

Working at Trail Running, I’m often teased with the question of whether I might run the UTMB one day. However, given my disastrous inability when it comes to ground that is anywhere near technical, I have tended to rule it out. However, on day two of my recent trail camp in the Chamonix Valley with Action Outdoors and UCPA, we ran nine miles over a tiny part of the UTMB course. The scenery was, of course, amazing and I started to think maybe completing the UTMB wouldn’t be out of the question after all. As we ran from Argentière, a village just outside Chamonix, the terrain was, in general, very runnable. But 24 hours later it was a different story. Setting off from Plan de l’Aiguille at 2200m elevation, straight…

Forward planning is certainly important, but it also pays to be flexible. When I write a training plan, it only looks a few weeks out on a rolling basis and will be altered depending on changes to the runner’s schedule, lifestyle and how they’re adapting to their workouts. Measuring elements of training, including distance and amount of vertical gain, is certainly very helpful but can also lead to inefficient changes, like wanting to hit mileage targets, or adding distance with no regard to the purpose.…

Yoga can be hugely beneficial to runners, in so many ways. When practised with the correct technique, you can achieve all your strength training, including core work, improve your mobility, flexibility and recovery time, reduce/heal injuries and discover a new-found focus and ability. Essentially, you’ll get everything you need for physical and mental fitness on the trails with a well-rounded yoga practice. Here are just six of my favourite pre- and post-run yoga poses and conditioning exercises. MEET THE EXPERT Helen Clare is a senior yoga teacher, Yoga for Athletes coach and running coach, based in Cornwall, where she leads unique yoga and running weekend retreats. Go to runbetterwithyoga.com for retreat info, and your free guide to the four essential poses every runner needs. PRE-RUN STRENGTH +MOBILITY TOE-TAPS: STRENGTHEN THE…

Gregory Miwok 12, £75 An adjustable back on a 12-litre pack? Better believe it. The Miwok is designed for body-hugging agility, and for this to work you need a perfect fit. The new BioSync harness, with adjustment provided by a velcro panel that allows for infinite fine-tuning, helps achieve that. Combined with the body wrapping BioSync design, flexible ‘tendon’ harness linkages, and breathable harness and hipbelts that flex and adapt to your every movement, the Miwok allows you to run, ride, scramble and climb freely while your gear stays secure and balanced. eu.gregorypacks.com PERFECT FIT  Flexible hip belts and harness linkages ensure the new Miwok allows freedom of movement. SOMEFIN INTERESTING TO WEAR THIS SPRING Sufr Tropical shark leggings, £32.99 Admit it; these leggings caught your eye didn't they? OK,…

WOMEN’S ULTIMATE DIRECTION FASTPACK 25 580g (size S/M)  ultimatedirection.com £165 The large main compartment is excellent for bulkier items such as sleeping bags and tents, making this a great choice for self-sufficient, multi-day adventures. Stretch front and side pockets plus two bottle holder and zipped pockets on the front mean everything’s just where you need it. The back length is on the long side. VERDICT Great for longer adventures; may not suit shorter backs. SALOMON SKIN PRO 15 SET 305g (one size)  www.salomon.com £140 This fantastic-looking, brilliantly versatile pack is designed for multiple sports and body shapes. It’s lightweight, stretchy and superbly comfortable, with five pockets plus an easy-access main compartment. The versatile, stable gear carrying system can attach poles, ice axes and a helmet. PVC-free and includes hydration bladder.…

It’s that time of year when runners emerge, pale and unaccustomed to the light of day, with a seriousness that can only mean one thing: marathon season. Our local towpath is suddenly buzzing with groups getting their last long runs in before the big day. It’s always an exciting and emotional few weeks in the world of running, when records fall and people take to the streets together to achieve something they never thought possible. As the great Kathrine Switzer put it, “If you are losing faith in human nature, go out and watch a marathon.” For those with more of an inclination towards the hills there’s plenty to get excited about. The natural world is gearing up for its own race, making the most of the abundance of the…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY This route explores the surprising expanses of the neighbouring commons of Frensham and Tilford, where sandy tracks wind over heather covered heathland and pine-scented forest. Owned by the National Trust, the open landscapes of Frensham cover just under 1000 acres, including two ponds, the larger of which is available for open water swimming. The run begins with a loop of the ponds, weaving through woodland before emerging on to open trails across Hankley common that run between golf course greens and military training areas. Heading through the pretty village of Tilford, it traces the River Wey back to the start at Frensham. Celebrate with a swim in the Great Pond or a coffee at the National Trust café by the Little Pond. • Adventure Places adventureplaces.co.uk GET…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY This is a fairly flat run, generally following the meandering River Esk between Eskdale Green and Boot, with a short ‘out and back’ to visit the waterfalls up Stanley Ghyll. The route covers a variety of surfaces, including forest road, stony trail and natural stone paving, and passes through a mixture of low deciduous and tall pine woods. Several gates along the way allow scenic rests, with the variety of closing mechanisms adding a Krypton Factor-esque mental challenge! Numerous breaks in the foliage also offer views of the river and distant fells, invitingly close from Doctor Bridge, where the route crosses the river. The return route passes the delightful St Catherine’s Church, taking in ‘Parsons Passage’ and ‘Anne’s Walk’ along the way. The route can quite easily…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY Starting from the Dolgellau side of the mountain, the Pony Path up Cadair Idris is the most straightforward and popular route to the summit, and also just happens to offer some of the best running along with outstanding views. From the start at Ty Nant, the route climbs through woodland and alongside streams, before eventually emerging on to the open mountainside where you’ll tackle the steep climb to the summit. There is a shelter at the top, which is a good place to rest and refuel on a cold day. To experience all the best running on the mountain our route follows the brilliant trail along the eastern ridge and descends technically to a slate clapper bridge before climbing back up the southern Minffordd Path above Craig…

TEA The antioxidants in tea help prevent cell damage, while one study showed it can cut your risk of heart attack by 20% and stroke by 35% when used in moderation. It can also help strengthen your bones, while scientists have also shown it is good for your teeth as it fights harmful bacteria in your mouth. COFFEE Aside from giving you an energy boost, which can be handy sometimes in everyday life and for performance purposes, caffeine has been shown to cut muscle pain post-work, so given coffee has more calories per cup than tea, it’s the one to opt for to get these benefits. However, high doses of caffeine can have many side-effects, some even dangerous. VERDICT It’s a tie. It depends on personal preference and the time…

We’ve all heard the advice to concentrate on our breathing and running form, but science recently cast doubt on that, suggesting it’s best to just run naturally. Focusing on running efficiently could have completely the opposite effect. Scientists had 12 runners focus their attention on either their running movement, their breathing or on a video while treadmill-running at a comfortable speed. They found that running economy was worse when they were worrying about their breathing or kinetics compared to when they just looked at the video. Publishing their findings in the Journal of Sport Sciences in November, they concluded that focusing away from the motion you’ve become accustomed to makes you more economical.…

Jasmin Paris not only won the 268-mile Spine Race (overall) by 15 hours, knocking a whopping 12 hours off the existing (again, overall) course record, but she expressed breast milk at aid stations as she did so and was disarmingly smiley all the way along the Pennine Way on her 83-hour run, during which she slept for just three hours. The 35-year-old mother and scientist’s extraordinary performance deservedly rocketed trail-ultra running into the global consciousness. Jasmin appeared in national newspapers, on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour , and national and international television. Even Barbra Streisand tweeted about her (below). “It’s been crazy,” she told TR . “I did back-to-back interviews for two days after the race and requests are still coming in a month later. I’ve had to start politely…

Ultra runners Beth Pascall and Damian Hall have set a self-supported, mixed gender Fastest Known Time on Scotland’s 230-mile Cape Wrath Trail, of four days, nine hours and 43 minutes, beating the previous record by almost three whole days. “It wasn’t only about the record,” Pascall told TR . “It was about challenging myself in an environment that I knew would play on my strengths. The Cape Wrath Trail in winter is arguably the most extreme trail running adventure to be had in Great Britain. That in itself was the main appeal. “It was immensely tough at times. But truly wonderful to be completely removed from civilisation for a few days.” 234 miles 29,569 ft of elevation 105hrs 43mins 2broken trekking poles…

“I’d like to throw out a huge thank you to a cracking team of folks who gave great company on the trail and first class crewing off it,” said Caroline McKay. The trail runner and presenter of the Of Mountains and Minds podcast organised a run/cycle challenge called Cairngorms to Capital. A group of trail runners covered 36 miles – while the cyclists rode 90 miles – from the Cairngorms to Edinburgh, raising money for Link Community Development International, who support school building in Ethiopia. “It was a long day with icy conditions across the Lairig Ghru, but gorgeous easier trails in the southern half. Thanks to all who gave time, have shared and donated.” Donate at lcdinternational.org/donate…

Charlie Martin isn’t just speedy behind the wheel – she’s pretty swift on foot, too. Yet, with a love for the mountains, she says running is more about the journey than how long it takes to get there. It’s for that reason that Martin, who hopes to be the first transgender driver to compete in the Le Mans 24 Hours, decided to run the Hardergrat Trail, a tough 30km Swiss hiking route. How did you get into trail running? After a few years of running, I peaked at a 1hr 22min half-marathon. I was running four or five times a week and, while I loved it, after reading Born to Run I was convinced to explore barefoot running and get off-road for the longevity of my knees! I’ve always been…

Running 1000 miles in 12 months sounds like a lot, and right now you probably think you can’t do it. But trust us, that’s not true. It breaks down to just 2.7 miles a day, 19.2 miles a week, 83 miles a month; and once you start chipping away at those milestones it gets easier. Most importantly, you’ll be hitting trails regularly; making yourself fitter, stronger, healthier and happier; and joining a thriving community of runners. So sign up today! THERE’S ALWAYS A WAY Elizabeth Hauke suffered liver failure last year caused by an infection which also damaged her heart. “My whole life became work-sleep-work,” she tells us. The initial plan was no running while further tests were ongoing. But, one morning this year she woke up feeling a little…

This fabulous, super-useful and super-stylish piece of kit can be yours for just £7.50, but act fast – they’re selling like hot cakes! With one of these ruffs you’ll not only be part of the gang, but you’ll also spot your fellow TR readers a mile off on the trails. Slip it over your neck to keep those early morning and late evening chills at bay, or simply wrap around your wrist to mop away the sweat of high summer. It’s a veritable kit bag essential! If you haven’t already done so, sign up for #Run1000Miles today. It’s a great goal for 2019 and already has thousands of members who are well on their way to completing the challenge of a lifetime. Join the community at run1000miles.co.uk…

1 The first thing you need to have before a race is a plan. If you have one, then you know what things need to be done. 2 Learn what works for your body. I’m not a big fan of tapering, for instance. I like to keep the same routine I’ve used as I’ve trained for the race, and perhaps I’ll just ease off in the final two days. 3 Don’t try new things on the big day. No new gear! 4 Adapt to the conditions. For running the Bob Graham Round, for instance, it might be shoes with good grip and some kind of waterproof. And don’t be frightened to have too much gear with you for something like that. If you’re thinking, ‘Should I take this or not?’…

WHERE TO STAY For those on a budget, Ambleside YHA is situated on the shores of Lake Windermere and provides a choice of shared or private rooms. The Apple Pie offers affordable rooms in the centre and has a great café and bakery. For a luxury option, try the Best Western Salutation Hotel, where you can relax after a long run with a trip to the swimming pool and spa. WHERE TO EAT Ambleside has a wide variety of pubs, restaurants and cafes. Try Zeffirellis (vegetarian) or Dodds (Italian) for an evening meal, or you can choose from the many pubs and bars, including the White Lion, Lily Bar and Golden Rule. Esquires Coffee House is a great place to grab lunch, with muddy runners (and their four-legged friends) welcome!…

1 Choose a well-marked footpath you can follow on a map or GPS 2 Get some friends together and make it into a social event 3 Plan a few pitstops on the way, whether they’re for rest or refuelling. It’s best to know how far you can go before you can get more water to ensure that don’t run out 4 Have a look at how far the path is and check online to see if anyone has run it before 5 Check to see if there are any planned footpaths works or diversions that may interfere with your run. 6 Check the forecast and pack your kit appropriately – it could be the difference between full waterproofs and sun cream. Enjoy it! It’s all for fun DIY ultra kit…

Thanks to French non-profit organisation UCPA and UK partner Action Outdoors, it’s easier and cheaper than you might think to run in this very exclusive area. They organise all-inclusive activity holidays with everything taken care of: from equipment such as hiking poles to lift passes, food and guides. Although there were only around 15 in our running group, around 100 action junkies trying various sports stayed at the UCPA hostel in Argentière that week and activities stretched into the evening, too, with organisers laying on entertainment at the bar to help create a social, multinational atmosphere. • Get yourself signed up, at www.action-outdoors.co.uk…

MEET THE EXPERT Tech head Paul Barton is a veteran of several ultra marathons and countless gear tests. What he doesn’t know about trail running gadgetry simply isn’t worth knowing. Choosing your perfect sports watch can be a daunting experience; the market is complex and they’re not cheap. We’re here to help you make the right choice. We’ll ignore basic fitness trackers; they’re designed simply to keep you active and count your steps. Trail runners specifically want a watch that tracks our outdoor adventures, which leaves us looking at GPS-enabled sports watches. Here we see two approaches: ‘smart watches’ and ‘GPS sports watches.’ To add to the confusion, smart watches are getting sportier while sports watches are getting smarter... So, have we arrived at the perfect watch for trail runners?…

THE APPLE WATCH SERIES 4 A solid recommendation for runners; the improvement in battery life and HR sensor over the Series 3 are significant. Its GPS data is accurate, too, and while recording a GPS run it depletes less battery than the similarly sized Garmin. It does, however, use more while in standby. It’s simply doing more stuff and that screen must be using more power. If your day might include a two or three-hour run and a session at the gym, you’re covered. If you’re in the Apple eco-system and you’re OK with fairly frequent charging, you’ll love it. apple.com/uk/apple-watch-series-4/ THE GARMIN 645 MUSIC A diminutive powerhouse of a runners’ watch. Its customisable activity screens are hard to beat and, when combined with Garmin’s HRM Run…

Mike says ramping it up in the final weeks is the key. “Assuming a period of aerobic base training has gone before, the focus for the final six weeks is to come to a peak,” he says. “Long runs should still be the bedrock of the training but maybe switch from hilly trails to flatter terrain – around Farnborough we have the Basingstoke canal towpath which is perfect for running faster without interruption. I suggest that the last two or three long runs are on the road to get used to the surface and should be progressive runs, lifting the pace towards marathon speed in the last quarter.”…

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 the best fastpacking bags for both sexes, p84. PAUL HALFORD Training editor Paul has been finding some form by testing the latest and greatest race shoes, p86. MARC ABBOTT Production editor Marc puts Inov-8's latest race shoes and his favourite trail running hoodie through their paces. PAUL LARKINS Boss man Paul has been researching the newest kit. See the fruits of his labours on the next three pages.…

Why Running Matters, Ian Mortimer, £9.99 A look at the inner workings of loving running. Forget races and results, this is more about friendship, inspiration and what it all means. Running up that hill, Vassos Alexander, £9.99 Broadcaster Vassos, best known for his time spent on Chris Evans' radio show, has turned his love of running into a passion for trails… This is his story of how he reached out beyond the marathon for something a little more challenging. Wild Running, Jen and Sim Benson, £16.99 Trail Running’s route experts have come up with this classic, backpack-stashable tome – a nationwide collection of incredible wild runs to enjoy. Maps, route advice and downloadable online GPX files are all taken care of. Ultramarathon Mom, Holly Zimmerman, £11.95 Who says a mother…

ADIDAS TERREX AGRAVIC XT GTX 340g (UK 9) adidas.co.uk There’s no doubting they’re tough and rugged with plenty of grip thanks to the Gore-Tex lining and Continental rubber outsole. But what you perhaps don’t expect is the low profile these shoes provide, working off a 9mm drop. What you get is a harder feeling shoe that uses Adidas’s Boost system for cushioning (more commonly found on their road shoes). But deep, A-shaped multi-directional lugs confirm the shoes' off-road bent. The back two-thirds has reversed lugs for better braking power when going downhill. A nice touch. Be aware Adidas sizes often come up narrow in the forefoot and can be half a size too small. VERDICT Performance, especially in testing conditions. Grip Cushioning Precision HOKA SPEEDGOAT 3 292g (UK 9) hokaoneone.eu…

1 TARKA TRAIL, NORTH DEVON Ease yourself in with a mix of woodland and pathways 2 FRENSHAM AND TILFORD, SURREY Easy trails for the common people 3 STANAGE EDGE, PEAK DISTRICT 15km National Park leg loosener 4 RIVINGTON PIKE, LANCS Test yourself with this moorland marauder 5 ESKDALE, LAKE DISTRICT Cumbrian river run 6 WYE DOWNS, KENT Gentle trail run in the Garden of England 7 COED-Y-BRENIN, SNOWDONIA Run in mountain bike heartland 8 CADAIR IDRIS, SNOWDONIA Stacks of climbing in this mountain route 9 ROMANS AND REIVERS, SCOTTISH BORDERS Hilly blast through the Borders 10 TROTTERNIDGE RIDGE, SKYE Testing run that’s worth the trek…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY Stanage Edge is one of the most famous edges in the Peak District, and is well known amongst the climbing community. Situated close to the pretty town of Hathersage, this trail from town to edge covers a bit of everything over the 15km circular run. There is boulder hopping on the edge itself, pastures, ascent and descent, and a sprinkling of woods, too. With plenty of history and some stunning views, it’s difficult to miss the old millstones and grindstones scattered on the floor at the base of the edge and be reminded of the industrial past of the UK’s first national park. Starting from the centre of Hathersage at the car park gives plenty of opportunity for fuelling both before and afterwards, and also means you…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY This run is a tour of quintessential English countryside, starting above the Devil’s Kneading Trough and heading through farmland to the pretty village of Wye in the Stour valley. From here, it follows the North Downs Way along the chalk downland ridge that rises steeply from the surrounding Kent Weald. The Wye Crown is a huge white crown carved into the hillside in celebration of the coronation of King Edward VII in 1902. The run offers challenging ascents and fast descents of the downs with their looping, steep-sided valleys formed by 2.5 million years of freezing and thawing chalk. In autumn, it’s a sea of purple plants and you can hear birdsong on a quiet day. ■ Jen and Sim Benson, Wild Running www.wildrunning.net GET THIS ROUTE…

DISTANCE ASCENT DIFFICULTY From the early 14th to late 17th century, ‘reivers’ came from both England and Scotland to plunder the borderlands. They were livestock raiders from all walks of society; an accepted way of life for some, borne out of frustration with the constant conflict of the area, as well as necessity – a way to earn a living. Starting in the Forest of Ae in Dumfries and Galloway, the Romans and Reivers route, one of Scotland’s official Great Trails, follows old Roman roads, forest tracks and drovers’ roads for 52 miles through forestry and farmland of former Reivers country, making a wonderful fastpacking route or an epic single-day run through the Southern Uplands. It’s also suitable for bikes. • Jen and Sim Benson, from the new edition of…

HOW TO GET THERE The M6 motorway is close to the western Dales, while the eastern Dales can be reached from the A1(M). Access to the southern Dales is best via the A65 through Skipton and Settle. The northern Dales are slightly more remote; either travel north from Hawes or south from Kirkby Stephen or Barnard Castle. WHEN TO VISIT In early spring, the return of wading birds such as the curlew and golden plover make running in the Dales an awesome experience as their calls fill the air with song. Running in the summer means you can take advantage of the sublime sunlight that comes with early morning or late evening. WHERE TO STAY The Dales has a wide range of accommodation from luxury hotels to pubs and B&Bs.…

Editor Paul chats on camera and on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire’s Drivetime (below) about the amazingness of trail running Fiona Russell and friend Vicky (pictured) got stranded for seven hours when the train back from their lochside run was cancelled Paul Halford plays his part in the rescue of a pet dog on a French mountain. All in a day’s work for the brilliant trail running community Former London Marathon winner Mike Gratton gets photographed on his local towpath... .... while Nicky Spinks tests her new shoes’ grip…