Running Vest: Beginners Guide To Trail Race Training
Get a running vest from Ultimate Direction and let us help you get ready for your first trail race. If you’ve developed a passion for running and are considering taking part in races from time to time, then this article is for you. Whether you’re thinking of starting out with a 5k run, to begin with, or you’re ready to take the big plunge and run an ultramarathon, we have all the information you need to make the most of your outdoor adventure.
This guide will equip you with everything you need to know about training for your run, what gear you’re going to need, and what to expect on race day. With some preparation and dedicated training, you’ll be able to master the terrain and reach your fitness goals. For all kinds of reliable trail running gear, Ultimate Direction has you covered. Browse our catalogue and pick out the perfect product to help you take your training to the next level.
A person running in the woods
Description automatically generated with medium confidence
How To Best Prepare For Your First Trail Race
In order to prepare for your trail race you’ll have to consider what level of runner you are. It’s important to note that while you may have experience in road racing, taking to the trails is an entirely different experience. If this is your very first trail run, then you’re going to need more time to build your stamina for the long haul, as well as factor in recovery time after demanding training sessions. Nobody becomes a star athlete overnight and preparing for a trail race takes plenty of training and preparation.
Alongside a manageable training programme, you’ll want to consider a healthy diet plan and some additional training gear before you get started. A running vest can be a great addition to your training regimen since you’re going to need to stay hydrated while on the go. Keep reading to learn a little more about picking out the right running vest, planning the ideal diet, and what kind of training routine will best suit your level of expertise.
Ultimate Direction offers a vast collection of outdoor gear and running apparel to open up the outdoor sporting industry to beginners. All our products are designed and tested alongside athletes from all over the world, allowing us to provide you with authentic, effective running gear to help you get started on your first trail run.
Training Programme For Beginners
If you’ve been hit with the sudden motivation to run the trails, then this breakdown is for you. While passion is important for running your first race, you’ll need to pace yourself during the initial training phase. Simply taking to the trails and running full tilt is not always a sustainable method of training. The goal of beginners' training is to develop a relationship with running, setting up a sustainable foundation that you will build upon over time.
Alongside this, you’ll need to take the time to familiarise yourself with the course. Unlike standard road running, your path along the trails may not be clearly marked. You’ll need to take time to learn the terrain, analyse how technical it is, consider temperatures on race day and make a note of aid station locations.
Absolute beginners should start training at least six months before the big race day. This will give you ample time to build up your skills and stamina, as well as allow sufficient recovery time. Your body needs to physically adapt to the exertion it will endure during training so that you can operate at peak performance during race day.
Training with a running vest is also a good idea as this innovative piece of running gear is designed to aid recovery and keep you hydrated throughout training sessions. A running coach may be able to assist you with this initial training phase, but this is not a necessity. Beginners should aim to run approximately 20 - 24 km per week, but this variable may fluctuate depending on weight, height, level of activity, and the complexity of the trail itself.
Runners can stick to a general running plan according to the overall distance, but should also be taking to dirt trails at least once a week. You need to familiarise your body with steep inclines, dirt, gravel, rocks and grass, along with other trail obstacles that may pose more of a challenge than standard road paving.
An ideal trail running training plan should involve the following:
- At least three running sessions per week
- Cross-training in the form of hiking, swimming, or biking
- Days of rest and recovery
- Strength training to prepare your muscles for rough terrain
- A healthy diet and adequate hydration throughout
Essential Gear: Running Vest, Accessories, And More
Alongside vigorous training, you’re going to need to get the right gear. While road races encourage minimalism – the less you carry, the better off you’ll be, trail running requires certain gear to get you to the finish line. Trail running gear is essential and can make the world of a difference during your run. You may be running for hours between aid stations and hydration packs will ensure that you can carry everything you need between these checkpoints. If you want to secure a successful trail run, here’s the gear you’re going to need to get started:
1. Running Shoes
Comfortable running shoes are incredibly important, especially for long trail runs. Running with blisters and uncomfortable, chafing shoes is not something any runner wants to experience, so it’s best to ensure you find the right running shoes to fit your feet and train in them beforehand.
Keep an eye out for well-cushioned shoes that are designed specifically for trail running. When you run with the right shoes, you’ll be able to reduce the risk of running accidents and enjoy a far more comfortable running experience.
2. Running Apparel
It’s best not to run in any old T-shirt you have on hand. Cotton fabric tends to chafe after a while and you wouldn't want to end your training sessions with an uncomfortable friction rash. The ideal running getup should consist of clothing made from synthetic material, specifically designed for running. Considering you’re going to be out on the trails and exposed to the elements, it's a good idea to pack a rain jacket as well.
You’ll need running socks, leggings or running shorts, supportive sports bras, and tank tops that will effectively remove sweat. The right running apparel will make for a comfortable fit and an improved running experience.
3. Running Accessories
You might want to take some additional running accessories with you on your training runs. The right accessories can help you cultivate a safer, high-quality running experience. These accessories could include a running belt to hold the bare essentials, a watch to keep track of your schedule, running sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles, gels, and more. You could store these accessories in a well-fitted pack or running vest to carry your gear and hydration reservoir effortlessly.
4. Running Vest
A running vest can be an incredibly useful addition to your training regimen, allowing you to stay hydrated and gear-clad without hindering your movement. A fitted running vest will sit snugly on your body and can be packed full of essentials from headlamps and water bottles to snacks and spare clothing.
Make sure that whatever running vest you choose fits your body perfectly and doesn't hinder breathing or bounce around on your back as a regular backpack would. Consider getting a running vest from Ultimate Direction and take your training to new heights. We offer a variety of running vest sizes and styles to suit your specific needs.
You can’t go wrong when you invest in the best. Ultimate Direction has the gear you need only a button click away.
Diet Plan For Beginners
When it comes to preparing for a trail race, regular training will only take you halfway there. Even with the best running vest and hours of running under your belt, you’re still going to need a healthy diet plan to properly prepare for race day.
Proper nutrition coupled with regular exercise is the key to managing a marathon. It’s highly recommended that beginners stick to a nutritious diet plan, starting at least ten weeks before the much-anticipated race day. Here are a few essential nutrients to factor into your diet plan:
1. Protein
Protein and Fat are two macronutrients that are incredibly important for your race-day preparations. You’re going to need adequate helpings of protein in your diet in order to promote muscle growth during training days. Think chicken, eggs, almonds, and other foods high in protein. Protein should make up at least 15% of your daily caloric intake during your training.
This will help you build substantial muscle that will assist you in pushing your body further on race day. You can also take various protein supplements to further benefit your body. Simply pop some protein powder into your water bottle, shake, and add the bottle to the pocket of your running vest to sip on the go.
2. Fats
While your intake of fats shouldn’t be higher than 13% of your daily caloric intake, this macronutrient is still an essential part of any athlete's diet plan. Make sure you’re taking in healthy fats throughout your diet plan, from food sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and various oils.
3. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are essential to your training diet, as these nutrients are going to act as your body's main source of fuel. In order to handle regular running, cross-exercising, and quick recoveries, you’re going to need to add sufficient intakes of carbohydrates to your diet. Carbohydrates should make up at least 60-70% of your daily caloric intake, giving your body the necessary fuel to burn through during your run.
Complex carbohydrates are ideal as these are digested slowly, giving your body a stable fuel supply and lasting energy to carry you through your training routines. Oatmeal, brown rice, whole grains, and certain vegetables are all great sources of carbohydrates that can be added to your diet for increased energy and stamina.
4. Hydration
Hydration is vital. This simple idea has been hammered home time and time again by athletes and trainers alike. Your training routine will need to be supplemented with adequate hydration in order to get the most out of your efforts. Water is a primary source of hydration and will help you to replenish your electrolytes during long runs.
When you’re running a trail race, your body is going to need continuous hydration to keep going. By wearing a running vest that can carry a water bottle or hydration bladder, you’ll be able to replenish electrolytes and keep your body hydrated throughout the duration of your run.
5. Supplements
If you’re struggling to add all the necessary nutrients into your diet, then consider taking some supplements to give your body the backing it needs to power on through training exercises. There are dozens of different supplements hailed in the fitness industry for their convenience and effectiveness.
You could test out protein powders, creatine, rehydration tablets, and more. Which supplements you choose will all depend on your personal preference and what you hope to achieve by using them. Nobody knows your body better than you, so test out some supplements to add to your dietary plan.
Prepare For Your Run With Ultimate Direction
Whether you’re in need of a running vest or a reliable water bottle, Ultimate Direction is here to provide you with all the gear you need to best prepare for your upcoming run. We strive to provide products that are environmentally friendly and wholly reliable, giving you the best possible outdoor experience while benefiting both you and your environment.
Take a look at our products and collect the necessary gear to aid your training mission. We provide products for everyone, from absolute beginners to well-renowned athletes of all shapes and sizes. As innovators in the outdoor sporting industry with a passion for the outdoors, Ultimate Direction is the obvious choice for all of your trail running equipment.
