Running in the mountains or on asphalt?

Running is excellent for many reasons. Those who are used to it know that it brings physical and mental effects that cannot be compared . And the feeling of well-being after the race is unique and addictive! However, where you practice it also counts when it comes to obtaining certain results. Running in the mountains or on asphalt? Today we break down each of the options and discover the answer.

When we talk about running, we usually immediately imagine running on asphalt, but there are different options. Trail running, which is what running in the mountains is called, is becoming more and more popular. Its benefits are very wide-ranging and the sensations it transmits can be even more intense than urban running. Let's look at the advantages of each of the practices in order to draw more firm conclusions.

Although most runners start out on asphalt, they soon discover that there is a world beyond the streets. If connecting with nature already has countless positive effects on our body and mind, transferring the habit of running to that setting can lead to numerous advantages. Asphalt is often limited when the passionate athlete seeks to expand and get the most out of running.

Running in the mountains or on asphalt?

Comfort

On asphalt

Running on asphalt can be really comfortable when compared to other practices. All you need to do is equip yourself with suitable sportswear and shoes and start running . Depending on the level of the runner, more sophisticated equipment will be used or the routes will be worked on more or less. But in general terms, it is relatively comfortable.

In the mountains

When we move the race to the mountains, it is advisable to equip ourselves in a more specific way, taking into account the possibility of certain setbacks arising . Therefore, it is always recommended to carry a mobile phone, some snacks and drinks or some additional sports clothing in case the temperature changes on the route.

Security

On asphalt

When we run on streets or roads, we are unlikely to encounter any setbacks unless the surface is in poor condition. Therefore, it is usually a safe way to carry out the activity. The risk of injury will be the same as that of the impact, but it is not common to encounter technical difficulties under normal conditions.

In the mountains

A characteristic of trail running is the surprise of the terrain, the unevenness and the need to adapt the pace to the conditions of the ground we walk on. This forces us to keep our concentration at bay and to be aware of each step. The risk of sprains, falls or other types of injuries may increase slightly.

Sensations

On asphalt

Although running brings positive sensations in itself, doing it on the road can end up being somewhat monotonous. That is why many runners who start out in this place end up looking for other options that are more difficult and pose a greater challenge. However, practicing running, wherever it is, translates into well-being, release of stress and tension, positive thoughts and subsequent quality rest. Success guaranteed!

In the mountains

As we said, nature is food for our senses and that is why it can be classified as a real medicine for many ills. Running in the mountains tests both physical and mental abilities. It forces us to adapt to setbacks and to improve ourselves every day. It allows us to hear the ambient sounds, breathe fresh air and enjoy wonderful scenery. We can say that running in the mountains adds benefits to those already existing.

Training for trail running vs. asphalt running

Running is one of the sports that consumes the greatest number of calories and allows for general muscle activation. Therefore, it will be an effective workout regardless of the place where it is practiced. However, we can assure that at a constant speed, running in the mountains burns more calories than running on asphalt. This requires not only constant changes of pace, but also adaptation to the natural unevenness of the place. Therefore, there are higher intensity peaks that can classify this activity as a true HIIT.

Now that you know the basics of what each of the two options offers, you are free to decide. We cannot choose either one, since both are great and effective depending on personality, circumstances and individual needs. And you, are you more of a mountain or asphalt person?

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