Trailhead: The Dirt on All Things Trail Running

I took up trail running five years ago after decades of road running and love it. Even though I've been out there on the trails, I know that there is always something to learn, so I bought The Dirt On All Things Trail Running thinking author Lisa Jhung would likely provide some insight. I first bought the kindle version, and hated it. It was in PDF format, so basically each page was like a photo that it was impossible to search through for any information. So, I bought the paperback version, which was definitely the way to go if you decide to waste your money on this book.As a somewhat experienced trail runner, I found the content of this book to be almost a complete waste of money. Sketches designed to be funny were beyond that, to the point of being annoying, the humor was of the kind where the humorist failed by simply trying too hard.About 75% of the information is either ridiculously firm-grasp-of-the-obvious:(p 3), "What is a trail?" (really?)(p 74), "Leave hats with bills or visors at home on a windy day--they are likely to blow off,"and (p 144), "Cough, spit or gag to get the bug out of your mouth..." (if there is someone who does not know what to do when they get a bug in their mouth, they should not be trusted on the trails);way beyond what the average trail runner needs to know (p 35) Shoes (p 43) Clothes, and the entire chapter Safety: Animals; or applicable to both trail and road running(p 11) "Running trails improves bone density that may help combat osteoporosis.And I disagree with her suggestion about (p 107) what to do when encountering dogs. First of all, "Dogs that are off leash should be well behaved and leave you alone..." is not always true, which makes me disagree with her suggestion to "Greet the dog and owner with a friendly hello." That is fine if the dog is leashed, but if it isn't, you may encounter an ownerless dog racing towards you. If a dog raced towards me without its owner on a trail, I yell, "No," firmly and repeatedly as I stop and wait for the owner to arrive. And I don't waste pleasantries on off-leash-dog owners (if I am on trails that require dogs to be leashed), I wait until the owner calls the dog, and continue on my way. I agree with her advice in the case of on-leash dogs, but then...there is little danger in such a situation.That said, there was a little bit of helpful stuff, including the definition of (p 10) proprioception, (p 29) a couple of the suggestions for finding a trail, DIY: Screw Shoes (p 61) and the training techniques.I could go on and on about what a waste of money this book is, but in the spirit of positivity, I will end with the best piece of advice she gives, which I totally agree with and love (p 171), "Jerkiness: Sometimes trail users, whether on foot, bike or motorized vehicle, act like jerks. Despite guidelines, these folks will assume that they get the right of way and what they are doing on the trail is more important than what you're doing. If you don't give them the right of way, they will take it anyway. Don't let it ruin your day; step aside and take secret pleasure in knowing you are not a jerk."My advice, unless you are a friend of the author, skip this book (in which you'll likely find about 25% useful and 75% a waste of your time) in favor of any other running book you can imagine. I suggest: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, Born to Run by Christopher McDougall or What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami. You are also going to want to watch The Barkley Marathons, it's brilliant.

Trailhead is accessible and fun. At 264 pages, this compact illustrated guide is as practical as it is entertaining. Jhung covers a broad range of topics from the benefits of trail running to where to go and what gear to bring and even what to do if you encounter wildlife (pro tip: if a moose charges, run). She also covers nutrition and first aid, all with a light, witty tone. Beginners will find the style friendly and conversational, and experienced trail runners will be inspired to lace up their shoes and hit the trails again.Know the difference between doubletrack and a greenway? You will. Jhung provides a comprehensive typology of trails in Chapter 3. What about the difference between trail shoes and road shoes? It’s not just the outsole. Turn to Chapter 4 for an in-depth analysis of the latest technical features incorporated in shoes made specifically for trail running. Or skip to Chapter 5 and learn how to gain traction in your old road shoes with a few strategically placed screws.A resident of trail-running mecca, Boulder, CO, Jhung has been running trails for 25 years and is a contributing editor and columnist for Runner’s World. While her experience clearly shows in the scope of this project, it’s her sense of humor perhaps more than anything that will resonate with readers. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself laughing out loud as you survey the tools of self-care in Chapter 8 or learn the ten commandments of trail running etiquette in Chapter 9.Regardless of skill level, readers will no doubt be inspired to hit the trails with confidence. Trailhead is engaging and provides just enough depth to be a good resource. Read it and rekindle your passion for running in the nearest city park or on a mountain adventure.

One thing about this book: it's motivated me to run more. Most days I get home from work, feeling drained and crappy. My wife bought me this book as a gift (and a subtle hint to exercise more). I was skeptical about reading a "how-to" book on trail running. But I opened it up, and loved the illustrations and writing style.So I tell myself, when contemplating a run, that I should turn to any page in this book and see what it tells me. (I know, weird). Since I started doing this, I've increased my runs from 1-2 times per week to 3-4 times per week. And "my brain after a trail run" feels a lot like one of the author's illustrations of a happy brain (if there is such a thing?).My ankles have always been creaky, but Jhung's advice on strengthening feet and ankles has me doing some of her recommended exercises when I'm sitting in my car or standing in line. My wife must know me well, because something about this book has gotten me off the couch and out into the fresh air. Makes for a happier marriage, methinks.

As an avid runner and occasional trail runner, I bought this book to encourage some friends to try some off-road running with me. Based on Lisa's extensive experience both running and researching (she has written for Runner's World, Outside, Shape and many others) she has written a simple, witty and straight-forward book about all things trail-related. This books covers all of the essentials -- from nutrition basics, how to treat injuries, and what to do if you encounter a bear or mountain lion. I found it light-hearted, informative, and a great resource.In my opinion, the goal of the book is to get people excited and informed about trail running. Does the book deliver? Absolutely.

This is a fun guide to trail running. It doesn't take itself to seriously, which means everyone from the most serious trail runner (some of my friends) to someone thinking of hitting the hills can get some tips about how to start. I have run trails for a while and found the nutrition section a good quick read to remind me what to do on the the long runs. The trail fashion rules illustration was worth a good laugh as well.Worth the investment if you are heading off the pavement

The book is a good read for those very new to trail running. It is a light read and has some useful information. Or alternatively Google trail running for beginners and get the same information.

Lots of easy to digest info on trail running. Written with a good sense of humour.

tu cours, tu cours mais avec ce petit livre tu cours plus intelligentlivre sur le trail et les différents points que nous sommes susceptibles de rencontrer :-nutrition-habillement-entrainementce n'est pas un livre très technique mais c'est sympa à lireet maintenant tu ne cours pas plus vite...mais tu cours toujours