Going trail running on the Island of Elba

A new passion has gripped running lovers on the Island of Elba: trail running! More and more people are always deciding to put themselves to the test along the tracks and paths across the mountains and by the sea.

Trail running is a special type of running that is done in uncontaminated areas in the heart of nature, usually along grit tracks, muddy, uneven ground, old mule tracks, woods, rocks and streams, with parts that are either paved or covered with tar that may not, however, be more than 20% of the entire length of the route.

This sport usually consists of a significant difference in the height above sea level as well as a considerable length of the routes : in those trail running races where the entire length of the route is over 42 km and where there is a difference in height above sea level of more or less than 4000 metres, they are usually called Ultra or Ultra-Trail.

Trail running enables you to combine both your speed and resistence capacity and you will get goose bumps as you run downwards.

Interesting fact: A speciality that is slightly different from trail running is sky running, done only in high, mountainous areas where there are some roads covered with tar (at the most 15%) and where you might even run at a height of 4000 metres above sea level.

This is your chance to run in absolute freedom with the fresh air all around you at any time of the year, to see breathtakingly beautiful natural environments and to explore new, enchanting places that are just waiting to be discovered, in short a dream for those who are "new" to this sport.

Advice to runners

• Bearing in mind that anadequate, physical preparation is necessary before you decide to attempt trail running, some serious training beforehand is fundamental.
• Every track and path has its own characteristics: continual climbs and descents, roads that are often unlevel, muddy and slippery, narrow tracks that aren't always easy to get to, streams to walk across where the stones and rocks below the surface are slippery etc. This is why it is important that you know beforehand what type of route awaits you, how long it is, the type of ground you will be running across and the height above sea level.
• Before attempting trail running make sure you have all the necessary equipment you will need: backpack, GPS, trekking poles, suitable clothing depending on the time of year and the route you will be facing, and above all your shoes or boots.
• Always remember a good supply of water or energy drinks.

Once you've done enough physical training and have taken all the necessary safety precautions, off you go and enjoy this new, exciting experience on the Island of Elba!