Happy Trails to You!

Today is the 17th annual National Trails Day, which celebrates the country’s 200,000 or so miles of trails. The American Hiking Society wants people get out and take a hike, hop on their mountain bikes or horses (if they own any).

I vote for trail running, one of my favorites.  When I turn off the asphalt pavement, onto the shaded dirt path, I can immediately lose myself in the cool breezes and the surrounding flora, fauna and foliage. I barely notice my legs moving as my brain wanders. Body, mind and spirit are one.

Of course, I could never get too zen about it, or I’d run the risk of tripping over a wayward tree branch or a rock, or of stepping into some tricky little hole.

Still, the softer dirt, grass or loose gravel found on trails is far less stressful on the muscles and joints than the roads most of us regularly run on, because it helps to cushion the impact of each step. And running on uneven or elevated terrain helps build greater strength and endurance – at least that’s been my own experience. So, happy trails!

 

Posted in Running
2 comments on “Happy Trails to You!
  1. vmarino says:

    Hi Mary, Thanks so much for reading my blog, and commenting. My labral tear (on the left side) was pretty large, too, though I was very fortunate that there wasn’t any cartilage damage! I’ve been icing the heck out of my hip, so I haven’t had to take too many pain killers. It sounds like you are steadily improving. I appreciate you reaching out to me. Please keep me posted on your progress, and if I have any questions, I will definitely reach out to you.

  2. Mary says:

    Hi,
    I just had arthroscopic surgery on my right hip. It was successful and the doctor was surprised that the tear was so large. He ended up putting 2 anchors in my hip. It is now 6 weeks post op, the internal hip pain that I experienced for over a year is gone, however arthritis is the culprit of 90 % of my pain. My tear was a result of year and tear over the years, plus I was born with hip dysplasia. Recovery is not bad, just be patient. After surgery, I used a wheelchair for a day then I walked with crutches now I am using a cane. Meds : I have just finally stopped using Melaxicam on a reg basis. I only use it when its raining! Happy surgery and I am willing to answer any questions you may have:)

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