How to Start Trail Running – Even If You’re a Total Beginner

You don’t need to be a seasoned runner, own top-of-the-line gear, or even have a clue what “elevation gain” means. If you’ve ever walked through the woods and thought, I wonder if I could run this trail — you’re already halfway there.

At Wild Kindness, we believe trail running should be welcoming, not intimidating. This is movement rooted in nature — joyful, grounding, and wildly freeing.

 

1. Start Where You Are

No pressure. If you can walk briskly for 20 minutes, you can start trail running. Choose easy, well-marked trails with gentle paths. Parks, canal paths, or forest loops are perfect.

Think of it as trail jogging at first — walk the inclines, shuffle the flats, breathe in the air. The trails don’t care how fast you go.

2. You Don’t Need Special Gear

Forget the pressure to buy high-tech trail shoes and packs right away. Start with your comfiest running shoes (as long as they have grip), a bottle of water, and a lightweight jacket.

If you fall in love with the trails — and you might — then you can build up your gear gradually.

3. Mind the Terrain (and Your Feet)

Trails are wonderfully unpredictable. You’ll learn to watch your footing, stay aware, and move with nature, not against it.

Look 5–10 feet ahead on the path, not down at your feet. This keeps your body upright and gives you time to react to rocks, roots, or puddles.

4. Be Safe, Be Seen

Tell someone where you're going. Take a charged phone, or better yet — bring a buddy. Apps like Komoot, AllTrails, or OS Maps can help you stay on track.

Early mornings or dusky evenings? A reflective vest or small head torch can be a good idea.

5. Run for Joy, Not Pace

Leave your watch at home if it stresses you out. Trail running is about effort, not speed. Some days you’ll jog, others you’ll walk and listen to the wind in the trees — both are valid.

Your strength will grow with time, but your connection to nature can start from day one.

6. Know You Belong Here

It’s easy to believe trail running is only for ultra-athletes or mountain goats. But your body, your story, and your pace are welcome in the wild. You belong here.

At Wild Kindness, we see people of all levels embracing trail movement — for fitness, for peace of mind, or just for the sheer love of being outside.

 

Ready to Begin?

Join one of our introductory trail sessions, follow us on Instagram for inspiration, or simply lace up and explore your nearest patch of green.

Because trail running isn’t about proving anything — it’s about reconnecting.

Move wild. Live kind.