Trail Race Triumph: How I Conquered My First Event with Runna
Signing up for my first trail race marked a significant milestone in my running journey. To prepare, I turned to the Runna app, which has gained popularity among runners of all levels. Over eight weeks, the app helped me transition from a casual runner to a more structured athlete, preparing me for the challenges of the Altra Kielder Half Marathon in August 2023.
With a less structured approach following a difficult second marathon earlier this year, I embraced trail running for its mental and physical benefits. However, I realized I needed a training plan tailored for my upcoming race. Runna proved to be the ideal solution, offering a comprehensive training program based on my race specifics. The app allowed me to input my goal, current running habits, and preferred training days, ensuring a personalized experience.
The training plan was designed to accommodate various factors, including holiday breaks, which Runna adjusted accordingly. This flexibility eased my initial concerns, as I previously found the app’s intensity overwhelming. The updated version now takes a more nuanced approach, asking about current running frequency and allowing users to set preferences for volume and intensity. This adjustment made me feel confident that the plan would suit my needs as I prepared for this new type of race.
One notable aspect of the training was its emphasis on hill workouts. Given that trail races often feature varied terrain, Runna included sessions specifically focusing on elevation. My plan consisted of progressive long runs with integrated hill work and dedicated hill repeat sessions. Although these workouts were challenging, they significantly enhanced my endurance and strength. I found myself craving even more hill sessions, as they played a pivotal role in preparing for the race’s elevation profile.
As race day approached, I experienced an unusual sense of calm. Typically, pre-race jitters can lead to anxiety about performance. Yet, during the week leading up to the Kielder Half Marathon, I felt relaxed, partly due to the nature of trail running, which prioritizes terrain navigation over speed. The Runna training plan undoubtedly contributed to this sense of readiness, allowing me to focus on the experience rather than on my watch.
On the day of the race, my body felt prepared for the distance and challenges ahead. I hardly glanced at my watch, instead concentrating on my footing and absorbing the stunning woodland trails surrounding the lake. The atmosphere was refreshing compared to the intensity often associated with road races.
Ultimately, I completed the race approximately ten minutes off my target time. I recognized that my own decisions, such as skipping some easy runs and neglecting strength training, played a role in that outcome. Nevertheless, the most important takeaway was that I felt ready, relaxed, and strong throughout my first trail race, largely thanks to the structured support provided by Runna.
This experience has not only enhanced my running capabilities but has also deepened my appreciation for trail running. As I continue to pursue my running goals, I look forward to further adventures on the trails, equipped with the knowledge and tools that Runna has offered.
For readers interested in enhancing their running journey, exploring dedicated training apps like Runna could prove beneficial. As I discovered, the right support can make all the difference in achieving personal milestones.
