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Sunday 4 November 2012

Trail Running in the Savernake Forest


One of my happiest discoveries this year has been my love for trail running. I've been an avid road runner for a couple of years now but it's only more recently that I've ventured off road into the exciting and extraordinary world of trail running.

This weekend a friend and I headed to the Savernake Forest in Marlborough to stretch our legs in the 4,500 acres of this beautiful woodland owned by the Earl of Cardigan. The forest is in a designated 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' and words alone simply cannot do it justice.

 I took my phone camera along for the run which was both a good and bad thing - on one hand it allowed me to capture these beautiful images, but it meant that I kept stopping intermittently to take pictures! Fortunately, my running buddy was very patient and admittedly the breaks were welcome as the Savernake Forest is certainly a challenging run consisting of ample hills and some very boggy terrain underfoot.

Some people discount trail running if their focus is on achieving good running times. Naturally, the pavement or the treadmill are better if you're trying to improve your time but there's no harm in adding a spot of trail running into your routine too. It brings a whole new dynamic to the sport - it's both challenging and rewarding and it allows you the opportunity to spend quality time outdoors in the beautiful countryside. It's worth investing in a good pair of trail running shoes if you live in the UK though as it can get a tad muddy along the way!


 

6 comments:

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    1. It was beautiful. Marlborough is such a pretty area and the nearby town centre is simply stunning too! :)

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  2. Nice photos as ever Toni - this isn' far from my house, so I think I must pay it a visit. Though, knowing you, I doubt you did much running, and the views and photos are a constent distraction!
    mew

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    1. Thanks Matt and you're spot on as ever on the lack of running comment! You should definitely visit Savernacke if you get the chance as it's gorgeous!

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  3. My morning run on Manhattan Bridge suddenly seems so shabby next to these views! Beautiful. You've inspired me to pick up some trail running shoes and get out there!

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    1. Thank you Celine! So glad to hear you've been inspired to venture into the world of trail running - I'm sure you are going to absolutely love it! :)

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