Finding your feet: a beginner's guide to trail running

There is something especially cathartic about combining physical activity with the great outdoors. Trail running can be daunting to start up, but given patience and an open mind, it can transform the way you think, how your travel, and even how you come to live your life, as Josh Lynott has discovered.

Whether you've been curious about trail running for a while or you're just finding your feet, we caught up with athlete, photographer and writer, Josh Lynott, to give us his top 3 tips for getting started.

Tip # 1: 'Go Slow'

It sounds simple and potentially not exciting, but hear me out. Running whether on-road or on the trail is a beautiful activity.

Over time it can become a meditative experience and allow deep connection, exploration, and discovery - especially on the trails! Start slower than you think. When you are at the start of your running journey, you will need time to adapt to the new pressures you are placing on your body.

Over time you will get stronger, fitter, and be able to go further. I want you to play the long game here so you can run sustainably for many years to come.

Over time, it will get easier. However, if you run fast and hard at the beginning, you increase your chances of injury. Like the tall Tasmanian Eucalypts, you will grow strong too, it just takes time.

Over time it can become a meditative experience and allow deep connection, exploration, and discovery

Tip # 2: Invest in a quality pair of shoes.

This might sound obvious, but if you haven't run in a quality pair of shoes, you won't know what you're missing out on till you try them on. Shoes can dramatically change the experience of a run.

On the trails, a great pair of trails will provide support, grip, and traction. It's important that you can trust your feet and the material you have between you and the earth. Being able to navigate trails with a sense of trust makes for a far more enjoyable experience. Plus, nobody wants to be running with blisters or jammed toenails.

On that topic, consider going half a size bigger when buying trail shoes. I personally get all my shoes from Sportitude.com.au - a specialist running store that will fit you for what you need and require.

Shoes can dramatically change the experience of a run.

Tip # 3: Take a friend.

The value of an experience is always multiplied when shared. My best memories on the trails are when I've been out with others. It's also useful to have someone help navigate, carry hydration (and snacks), and keep you company if it gets dark.

The value of an experience is always multiplied when shared.

Want to hear more?

If this article has got you feeling inspired, head over to Josh's other blog, Trail Running in Tassie. It's full of awesome routes and tips for trail running in Western Tas!

If you want to see more of what Josh's up to, head over to Instagram and check him out @joshlynott.

Uncover Tassie for yourself

For this trip, Josh and his friends explored Tassie's wilderness in Hobart-based campervan Sherpa, available to hire on Camplify. Check out our full range of Tassie vans for your next adventure here.