I admire many runners. Wait. I think I admire all runners. I study their form. I read their books. I read their blogs. The other night, I watched a movie trailer about Anton Krupicka, an impressive trail runner out of Colorado. I couldn’t help but notice how loose and free he appeared in this trailer, even on the technical trails. I compared that to my running. I take those technical trails, especial downhill portions, stiffly, fearful and heavy. No wonder I can’t run The Candy Store run in the time I need. I run too rigidly. I don’t loosen up.
Today I decided to conquer Mentally Sensitive for some elevation. Then for the big downhill, I took one of the most technical trails in Aliso/Wood Canyons: Rock It. I practiced loosening up, especially my upper body on the rolling hills on the way. Down Rock It, I felt like a different runner. I ran quicker and without fear. I ran lightly, and seemingly with less effort. I think I just may be onto something to improve my trail running.
Here’s to one happy trail runner. I may have not been able to get out there as much as I would have liked this week. This loosening up revelation definitely makes up for all that.
Running trails with deer:
Ready to conquer:
The climb:
Rain’s coming in:
Running Rock It:
View from Rock It:
Awesome! I always admire his style. Ryan Sandes, South Africa's top trail and desert runner also runs so effortlessly. It definitely helps a lot to loosen up.
ReplyDeleteThanks for commenting Johann. I will be looking up Ryan Sandes. Thanks for the name.
DeleteGotta run like Anton if you're rockin his shoes!
ReplyDeleteScott, you noticed the shoes! I noticed the shoes too.
DeleteHey thanks for reminding me about that movie.
ReplyDeleteYup. Relaxing is so key. I strive for no tension but not there yet...
Thanks for commenting Paul. No tension is a difficult thing for me, but I'm aiming for it.
DeleteReally looking forward to the Anton movie. : )