GO OUT AND TRAIL RUN! STORY: JANESSA GROSSETT
My Story I’ll start by saying, growing up I never liked running. In high school I wasn’t into gym class and the days of the 12-minute run, I’d have rather been at home “sick”. By second year university, something changed. I started to hit the gym and made a choice, a personal goal rather; to be healthy, to be active and to be good at running. Where did I go from here? My Experience In mid March, 2013, I was running an average distance of 3 to 4km several times a week when I was given the suggestion to run in the annual Bread & Honey Race. The race takes place at the beginning of June in Streetsville (Mississauga), Ontario with 5km and 15km disciplines plus 1km fun run. At this point I had two and a half months to shape up so I took my biggest step forward as a runner and registered for the 15km race. I slowly increased my distance about a km a week and finally worked my way up to 15km. “Achieving
my goal was extremely rewarding but I found myself easily bored after 4 or 5km of staring at the road, grey buildings, passing cars and inhaling fumes. If you can relate or are looking for a new challenge than it’s time to Go Out and Trail Run! You don’t have to be an expert runner.”
Living in Peterborough, we’re lucky because urban escapes are easy to find and easy to access. You’ll discover quickly that trail running offers new challenges, adrenaline rushes and a chance to connect with nature like never before. The fresh air, the trees and changing terrain will be enough to keep you running longer and faster, pushing your limits one run after another. On a chase for another race I discovered the 5peaks Trail Running Race Series. I was once again ready to take on a new challenge; a 12.7 km endurance course at Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area. I kicked up my km and actually practiced the race route 3 times before race day. The race trails were extraordinarily technical, rugged and required fast feet so my preparation paid off in terms of knowing what to expect. The constantly changing terrain, intense climbs and fast descents made for an advanced course but with proper training, it’s a fun course. For local easy access trails check out Jackson Park and the Millennium trail close to downtown or the Drumlin and Trent Nature Area Trails. Peterborough has something for everyone all skill levels. For the future I look forward to racing more trails, longer distances and better goal times. I am an honest example of a person who has taken running as a hobby for active living, selfimprovement, lifestyle balance and the opportunity to connect with nature. You’ll be surprised how well you do if you just get out there.