Trail Running 

Running the Plenty Gorge trails has been an activity that I have enjoyed for years. With its stunning views and ease of access it’s a must for any one new to trail running or after sone new trail running options.

We have in the past entered various events, enjoyed tough Mudder, stadium stomp and spartan races along with many other popular Melbourne fun runs as part of our fitness program. Trail running clearly challenges and tested our resolve. It at the beginning is tough going.

At this point in time trail running is part of the plan. The next event will be a trail run.

So, we entered the Plenty Gorge running event held by Rapid Ascend.

Scenic trails

The beauty of trail running is that the scenery is constantly changing. At one time you are simply running on a fire clearing along the bush. Then all of a sudden you are traversing across the cliff at pace on a single track. It doesn’t end there, as we found out recently when running a lengthy downhill as it was just a matter of time before we had to run back run up. Sometimes the Australian bushland is not a forgiving landscape, so be prepared for the grind.

Coming from a bitumen background, having participated in several major road running events and obstacle course runs. This one clearly rates up there with one of the best.  What a great decision it turned out to be in entering this race. Initially this event was simply to outline a set course that my clients and I could run as part of our regular workouts. 

However, as it turned out after being a participant of this great event it was obvious to me that I’ll be putting this run up with my favourite runs and got more out of it than initially thought. 

Running single track and fire trails is Brilliant! what a workout.

Why trail running?

Basically, trail running is all about getting away from the bitumen and heading in headfirst into the wilderness. If you live In Mill Park, Bundoora or Plenty the blue lake is close enough. With all its challenging running sections offer the opportunity for the runner to see the local kangaroos, along with a variety of mammals you would typically encounter in the Aussie bush. 

Here are some reasons to trail run.

• The best trail running (many would argue) is on ‘single track’ – usually walking/hiking trails that you can only traverse on foot.
• These are the best trails because they tend to lead you into the most pristine and stunning environments.
• Trail running does also encompass some running on dirt roads and fire trails and, due to logistics, can sometimes at a push include short stretches of road running to get from one trail to another.
• Finally, trail running is all about running in beautiful and inspiring parts of the world that remain as Mother Nature intended: untouched and wild. Of which there are endless examples in Australia.

Enjoying the Plenty Gorge trails

Fortunately, with access from my back yard as it borders the gorge national park. Within a 10-minute walk to the blue lake. For years I was always wondering what it would be like to venture down and check it out.

Obviously, I’m glad I finally did. As a new trail to have such an awesome trail network right on my backyard was pure luck.  Additionally, one that the Trai running series deems worthy enough to host an event.

Rapidascent.com.au currently run a trail series. This includes several options along the plenty gorge trails, check them out as they are around June.

Give it a go and get running some wonderful bushland.

Claudefit personal training is based in Mill Park. Working in the fitness industry since 2008 with over 35 years of own practical experience.

You are sure to be looked after in relation to your fitness needs.