Run on the rugged side

Manila, Philippines - Ready to run on the rugged side?

On its second year, the Merrell Adventure Run again leads you through dirt roads, flowing streams, river crossing, rock scrambling and uphill and downhill trails in a new but equally challenging and breathtaking race course at Timberland Heights, San Mateo, Rizal on June 18.

Running in all forms for all intents and purposes is minimalist in nature  all you need really are great shoes. That’s why it’s no surprise that running as a hobby in the Philippines is taking a foothold as more and more people take to the road.

A different breed of runners shuns the paved roads of Metro Manila  the trail runners. They want their weekend runs to be on the scenic and rugged side.

Trail running is different from road running in many ways:

You cannot zone out in trail running. The terrain and the lay of the land is constantly changing, requiring you to stay alert and aware. You cannot just let loose and run, it’s best to slow down.

There’s a lot more going on in a trail run than in road races like rocks, old roots, steep hills, mud, water crossings and the like. Thumbie Remigio, expert trail runner and member of Team Merrell, advises that it is best to slow down your pace between 10 and 20 percent.

It’s hard to keep your race pace. Unlike in road races where runners know exactly what their pace targets are, it’s best to not think about it with the trail runs. Every kilometer is different than the last, and you rarely get in five strides at the same pace let alone a full kilometer.

Some things to remember though, always use good trail running shoes like Merrell, bring your own hydration pack/bottle belt, wear a cap and bring gloves, running gaiters and energy bar or gel, especially if you are going for a long distance like 21K.

(Registration for the 5K, 10K and 21K run is up to June 14 only in Merrell shops in TriNoma, Market! Market!, Festival Mall and Marquee Mall. Visit www.facebook.com/MerrellPhilippines for more information.)