The weather outside right now is perfect for taking your fitness routine outdoors. Trail running is a great form of fitness and exercise, but valley Podiatrist Craig Foster understands and knows a thing or two about helping his patients stay healthy while out on the trails, as an avid trail runner himself.
Foster, who grew up in the small town of Beaver, Utah, was no stranger to the mountains and spending time on the trails. “I have enjoyed many different ways to exercise,” says Foster. “However, trail running has always been a staple in my fitness routine.” For Foster, there are two main reasons he enjoys time out on the trails. “One, the run is more challenging in navigating uneven terrain on hills and slopes, and I like the difficulty and focus that it requires. And two, the ever-changing terrain seems to make the runs go by faster compared to miles on a paved trail or road.”
As a Podiatrist, Foster also knows that there has to be a certain level of focus and care taken when it comes to trail running. But it doesn’t have to be challenging to get started either. “The barrier to entry to the beginning of trail running is very minimum,” shares Foster. “All you need is a good pair of trail running shoes, but make sure you get the right pair, and a hydration pack. That’s it. You do not need to go tom some cramped gym and figure out how to use machines or weights and wait your turn to use these things. You can just get out there on the train and run at whatever pace you want to enjoy the fresh air and the solitude all while getting a great workout.”
Personally, Foster also believes that trail running has helped improve this level of injury he sustained running on a flatter surface all the time. “I have a history of severe ankle sprains and an ankle fracture. I noticed that as I started to trail run The stability in my ankles seemed to improve dramatically. This is just my own personal experience, but since I have picked up trail running as a hobby, I have had no ankle pain and no instability in both of my ankles.”
One of the coolest things Foster shares he’s done in terms of trail running events was the trail marathon in Moab, Utah, which he completed back in 2018. However, here in the valley, he adds there are also some very cool events including the Xterra trail running event, which offers a great opportunity to compete at any level.
Foster often shares his “why” when it comes to trail running, saying it is easy to get lost in the picturesque scenery that can take you away from many of the stresses of life. “Paint a picture of the ideal trail run- I love the early morning desert runs where it’s still dark in the early morning hours the stars are out and you need a headlamp and a jacket for the first couple of miles. The sun starts to come up the gloves and jacket comes off and you get to enjoy a nice sunrise. The desert warms up with you as you finish your run.”
Foster says if you are hesitant to start a trail running program, speak with a medical professional about the pros and cons of getting out on the trails. Make sure you get your feet checked properly and get into a running store that can fit you for the appropriate trail running shoes for your specific foot type.
"I have enjoyed many different ways to exercise. However, trail running has always been a staple in my fitness routine."