Heading out into the mountains for a day of technical trails is a recipe for never ending enjoyment but if you hit a downhill unprepared a small slip can lead to a twisted ankle or worse. Lisa Jhung has 4 helpful pieces of advice to help you get comfortable on the downhills.
Most people have tried to ‘choose your line’ (take the path of least resistance). Others have tried looking where they want to run rather than where they don’t. Others still have tried the masterful wide arm swing for extra balance. This is what Lisa Jhung recommends.
1. Practice makes perfect
Pick a downhill trail that is technical and run it repetitively, to get comfortable you have to overcome the fear. If you’re scared of heights and you bungee jump every weekend you won’t be as afraid. The same applies to downhill running.
2. Shorten your stride
Long strides mean you get more air time, when you come back to earth you brake. “The goal is to not break your speed, and therefore, shorter strides are better.” says Jhung. A short stride also allows you to place your foot quickly and precisely.
3. Have a quick turnover
Lisa spoke to Brian Pilcher, three time winner of the Dipsea trail race (A very hilly race in America). Pilcher says, “normally you’re worried about pushing off your back foot. But if you focus on picking up your back foot as soon as you put it down, you’re basically falling downhill—a good thing if you’re looking to run fast.”
4. Separate mind from body
Downhills follow uphills, the body needs to recover after an uphill but make sure to keep the mind focused on the path ahead. This will help to avoid tripping and keep the speed high.
To read the full article written by Lisa Jhung click here.