Seek the Peak Training: Trail Safety
Posted by Grouse Mountain May 28, 2018
Our 15th annual Seek the Peak race is fast approaching we want to make sure you have all the info you need to rock those race day hills. Stay tuned as we share some helpful training and preparation tips to support your journey, all the way to the Peak!
Today our resident trail running expert, Colin Wilson shares some important things to keep in mind when it comes to staying safe on the trails.
1. Trip Planning
Make sure to tell someone where you are going, even if you're only planning to do a short trail run. This is especially important when it comes to the North Shore as the trail system here is so extensive and includes a broad range of difficulty.
Whenever you're planning to head out into the trails, it's important that someone knows where you are so that if something should happen, rescue crews have reliable information on where to begin a search if necessary.
2. Do Your Research
Having a little bit of knowledge is huge. Knowing where a trail goes and what the possible risks are along that trail are incredibly important things to be aware of before you head out. Staying within your limits is also important. There can be a lot of pressure to try trails that are a little bit outside of your comfort zone but you should still know your limits and how far you are willing to push yourself.
3. Take the Essentials
There's a balance between not weighing yourself down with excess gear when going out for a run and making sure you're prepared. It's important to bring some essentials with you especially if there's a possibility of being out on the trails for a few hours. In that case, I always bring with me:
- Extra layer (preferably waterproof)
- Food (gels, trail mix, energy bars, whatever you want really)
- Small first aid kit (Band-Aids, tape, gauze, anti bite,)
- Lighter/matches
- Hat or Buff
- Water (1l approx.)
- Signalling device (whistle)
- Cell phone
