EP 107: Thinking About Trail Running? Watch This First

EP 107: Thinking About Trail Running? Watch This First

From The Hybrid Lab with Dr. Alyssa Olenick by Dr. Alyssa Olenick

May 21, 2026 · 13 min

About this episode

This episode provides essential tips for beginners looking to start trail running, emphasizing the differences from road running and how to adapt training.

Thinking about trying trail running? Whether you're a road runner looking to transition or just curious about running on trails, this video breaks down exactly how to get started—without overcomplicating it. → This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/fYB9wu6XNlA Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST : → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/ Trail running is different… and that’s the point. In this video, I cover: • How to transition from road running to trails • Why trail running feels slower (and why that’s normal) • The biggest mistakes beginners make • Why you don’t need special gear to start • How to adjust your training (time vs miles) • How to run on uneven terrain safely • When to walk vs run on trails • How strength training improves trail performance • Tips for downhill and uphill running One of the biggest mindset shifts? Stop focusing on pace—and start focusing on effort. Trail running is about time on feet, adaptability, and learning how to move efficiently over different terrain. And the best part? You don’t need to be “ready” to start. Just get out there. Subscribe for more…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Alyssa Olenick

Topics covered

  • trail running
  • transitioning from road running
  • beginner mistakes
  • training adjustments
  • strength training
  • running techniques

Keywords

  • trail running
  • road running
  • beginner tips
  • training
  • strength training
  • running techniques
  • uneven terrain

Sponsors

The Lyss Method

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: YouTube, Spotify

Places: trails

More episodes of The Hybrid Lab with Dr. Alyssa Olenick

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Hybrid Lab with Dr. Alyssa Olenick podcast page.