a day ago
- The author completed their first long trail race, the Giant's Cup, over 2 days in the Southern Drakensberg mountains with family.
- They began running only 15 weeks before the race, following a simple training plan of 5km weekday runs and longer weekend trail runs.
- Training emphasized gradual improvement (less than 10% increase per week), avoiding injury and building fitness without overreaching.
- The author prefers trail running to road running due to its natural scenery and less joint strain.
- The experience revealed an accessible community and events, providing motivation to explore new places with loved ones.
- Despite not being a competitive runner, the author commits to continuing running for decades.