We exercise for many reasons, some are simple (I want to feel strong, I want to get fit) and some are really complicated (I’m angry, I’m overwhelmed, I want to quiet my mind). Running and walking are great ways to exercise and address these reasons, as well as many others. The simple act of moving bodies, working muscles, sweating, and breathing deeply provides physical and mental benefits.
But why trails? What’s so great about dirt, rocks, and roots anyway? Fears of falling / getting lost / being too slow / getting stung are legitimate, and the treadmill is so simple. But consider instead the feeling of the breeze, the sun on your face, the sounds of the leaves in summer or the branches in winter, edible berries, critter tracks, the accomplishment of way finding, and navigating the rocks and roots; in short, doing something hard. It’s not a coincidence that being outside and in nature contributes to feelings of well-being, satisfaction, and calmness. While you’re navigating the directions, avoiding the roots, and jumping over the rocks, your brain is fully engaged with propelling your body safely through the trails, without phones, screens, emails, or tasks that are more important than staying upright! The smell of the earth, the views, and the sounds of nature light up your brain, improve your coordination, and boost your mood. It’s everything that sitting in front of a screen isn’t, and it’s essential!
I’ve been running and hiking in Lowell Preserve for over 15 years, and it never gets old. Nature is not boring and it’s miraculous how time stands still while I’m out there. I’m so present and in the moment, yet, where did four hours go?! I’ve never felt as humbled or as fierce as I have while trail running. It’s hard, and I’m so grateful to be able to challenge myself.
I’m so inspired by my time on local trails that I began hosting a race nine years ago, hoping to showcase this extraordinary resource. Firebird Trail Races have brought hundreds of runners to the trails in Windham, Falmouth, and Cumberland and resulted in tens of thousands of dollars in donations to local nonprofits. The race donates a portion of the proceeds back to the land trusts (including PRLT) who maintain the trails we use; it’s a community race, and it’s a community effort.
Trails and green spaces are not readily accessible to everyone, so it’s important to get involved, get engaged, and help promote and preserve these spaces and make them more accessible to those who might not otherwise have opportunities to enjoy them. Firebird has been and continues to be a fulfilling collaboration with the local land trusts and it’s so fun to introduce runners to an analog escape afforded by trails in our backyard!
If you want to join us this year you can register here.
Mari Balow is the owner of Grind Run Co., the parent organization of Runaways Run Club; founder and board member of Northeast Runners Alliance; and a local trail running enthusiast.