When running trails, it is especially important to work on strengthening the muscles in your feet and the muscles in and around your ankle. Exercises to improve your balance are also very important.

Trail Runner and Runner's World magazine are good resources for information and tips.

Trail shoes have their advantages, but you can run on trails without them as long as you are in a shoe that fits properly and has proper support. I would suggest that you come into one of our stores, and let us help you to find the right shoe for you. You can also check out our various fuel belts, books, magazines and more.

I would suggest beginning on easier trails and then progressing to more advanced ones if you so desire once you build up your strength, balance and confidence. Check out the numerous Metro Parks in MI for trail routes and levels of difficulty.

We at Running Fit have our Road Ends 5 mile trail race on April 28th. It's a tough one, but with the proper training, I'm sure that you can do it!

Good luck and I hope to run into you on the trails soon!

Tracey Cohen
Running Fit - Novi