Biking
Five tips to get started with mountain running
Would you like to experience the incredible sensation of running through gently rolling terrain and stunningly beautiful nature? To feel like you have boundless energy and a mind free from everyday worries? Mountain running is a growing trend each year – and for good reason.
This is an excellent form of exercise that also offers fantastic nature experiences, regardless of your fitness level. It's not just the top athletes who can enjoy and benefit from this. If you need help getting started and overcoming that first hurdle, getting tips from the best can be helpful.
We spoke with Norway's champion in ski mountaineering, Lars Erik Skjervheim, who spends most of the snow-free season running in the Voss mountains. Here are Lars Erik's best tips for enjoying unique nature experiences with running shoes.
The mountain is the best training venue
The mountains have always drawn Lars Erik. According to the Norwegian champion, moving through the mountains in running shoes and shorts, with chocolate in the backpack and water trickling in the stream, is magical and liberating.
"I truly enjoy seeking challenges and experiences in nature, alone and with friends. Training in the mountains has always been a kind of liberation project—nature doesn't expect anything from me. Here, I am free," Lars Erik says enthusiastically.
Climb the steepest slopes
It's easy to think that mountain running is something you should start with after having built a basic level of fitness through running on asphalt or gravel roads. Lars Erik's tips are the exact opposite.
"Running on soft terrain makes it easier for the body to adapt to a new or greater load."
If you want to start jogging, the best tip is to begin on light and gently rolling trails with a soft surface.
"It's worth mentioning that I often walk uphill when I'm in the mountains. It's a myth that the best always run no matter how steep it is. Often, it's more efficient, just as fast and more comfortable to walk. It also provides a natural variation in training for muscles to rest a bit, reducing the risk of injury.
Have patience and don't start off too hard
Most of us have felt the desire to be in better shape than we actually are —starting the jog full of energy for the first kilometre, only to hit rock bottom with a pulse of 190 and sinking motivation.
"Starting the journey too hard is perhaps the most classic trap people fall into. Start your jogging slowly for at least 10-20 minutes and get your body properly going before you pick up the pace. Another typical beginner mistake is to train too much, as well as having maximum intensity in every workout session."
Let your body get used to the new form of strain, vary the intensity of your workouts, and have some patience are Lars Erik's best tips.
Have a light bag with the necessary equipment
During a mountain run, one should carry a light backpack with windproof clothing, dry change, food, drink, sports tape, and first aid equipment. According to Lars Erik, navigation equipment is essential.
"Many good map services are available on the phone, but you must be sure you have battery power. A power bank can provide a little extra margin. I always charge my phone before I go on a trip; it's part of my preparation," he says.
Combine running training and vacation
If you wish to stay active during your holiday, nothing stops you from combining your vacation with running trips in the mountains. Plan your holiday well so you become familiar with the area you're going to so you can also enjoy great nature experiences.
The mountain village of Voss
Based in Myrkdalen, you are close to great hiking opportunities. Here, you wake up refreshed to the view of a fantastic mountain landscape, and with nature so close; you can start your hike right outside the door after a good breakfast.
Over 90% of Voss municipality is mountain terrain, so the opportunities for great jogging in the high mountains are almost endless in this region.
"There are plenty of beautiful hikes in easy terrain on Vikafjellet and Oppheimsdalen. If you want more elevation and fantastic views, the area in Brekkedalen and by the Nærøyfjord is worth exploring. Exploration is half the joy; feel free to venture off the marked trails, but always be humble – we are small and insignificant in the mountains," Lars Erik concludes.
