Istockphoto
From Health magazine
Did you spend the summer on the treadmill, escaping the heat? It’s time to get outside and off-road.
Trail runningwith its uneven terraincan increase your calorie burn up to 10%. And it’s generally gentler on your bones and joints than pavement. Follow these tips to make the switch safely and smoothly.
Plot your route
Find interactive trail maps at sites like TrailLink.com, Trails.com, or TrailRunner.com.
Get the right gear
If you plan to go off-road a few times a month or more, invest in a pair of trail-running shoes, which have treads that provide extra traction and will keep you steady on loose dirt, rocks, etc. Look for a pair that fits snugly in the heel and has room in the toe to prevent blisters and bruised nails.



