Dr. Scott Mahanty, a board-certified musculoskeletal radiologist, sees firsthand the overuse injuries caused by repetitive activities like road running. That’s why he recommends trail running for beginners. Here’s what he has to say about getting started on the trails:

Ditch the Pavement, Strengthen Your Foundation: Road running can relentlessly impact joints, particularly the knees. Softer trails provide a more natural running experience, reducing impact and strengthening supporting muscles. This leads to better stability and potentially lessens your risk of injury in the long run.

Embrace the Uneven: Core Strength is Key: Trails constantly challenge a runner’s core with their unpredictable terrain, unlike roads. This engagement improves core muscles crucial for good running posture and stability. A strong core means better form and less joint stress.

Buddy Up, Boost Your Balance: Especially for newcomers, having a trail running partner is a smart safety move. But beyond safety, a friend improves your balance. Trails get technical, and having someone to help navigate tricky parts reduces the risk of falls and injuries.

Hydration: Your Body’s Best Friend: Trails can be unpredictable, with changing shade and sun exposure. Dehydration is a potential threat, so carrying a hydration pack and sipping regularly, even without intense thirst, is essential to prevent muscle cramps and fatigue.

Hike It Out, Listen to Your Body: Trail hills are a point of pride. Don’t be afraid to walk them! Walking breaks during ascents conserve energy while letting you soak up the view. It’s also a great way to stay attuned to your body’s signals. Pushing yourself too hard on new terrain invites injury.

Trail running is a fantastic way to explore nature and strengthen the body. By minding these tips and embracing the trail’s natural changes, newcomers can set themselves up for a rewarding, injury-free experience. So lace up, grab a friend, and discover the trail running world!

Dr. Mahanty is a board-certified radiologist specializing in musculoskeletal radiology. A Minnesota native, he brings advanced expertise in diagnosing and treating sports injuries, trauma, and tumors to patients in Charlotte, North Carolina. After receiving his medical degree from the prestigious Boston University School of Medicine, he completed his residency at the University of California – San Francisco. Dr. Mahanty further honed his expertise during a fellowship at New York University. He is a member of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), the Society of Skeletal Radiology, and the American Roentgen Ray Society.

Outside of work, Scott enjoys hiking, mountain biking, trying new cuisine, and exploring alternative investment strategies. He shares an active lifestyle with two energetic dogs, an Aussie and a Corgi