If you’re like many people trying to stay active and fit during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may have considered taking up — or getting back to — running or jogging.
With gyms and other indoor fitness facilities closed or limited in opportunities, perhaps running outside could help fill the fitness activity gap.
Considering the many beautiful trails in and around the area, we got in touch with trail runner and Midhurst resident Robb MacDonald to get his advice.
MacDonald was first introduced to trail running as an elementary school student in Wakefield, Que., right next door to Gatineau Park, Canada’s expansive wilderness area in the capital region.
As a member of the school’s cross-country running team, he regularly explored the trails bordering the park.
Trail running continued to take different forms throughout MacDonald’s life, including the chance to compete with a Canadian military reservist team while a student at Western University in London, Ont. The five-event competition involved orienteering and obstacle courses among other challenges.
“It was probably the best summer job I ever had,” said MacDonald. “We trained outdoors all summer and then travelled to Athens, Greece, for the competition.”
With a master’s degree in physical education, MacDonald pursued a career that focused on health promotion and the benefits of physical activity. His work often supported clients who were involved in the promotion of physical activity and the impact of the environment on our health.
As someone whose interest in being active outdoors is not only about personal health, but also related to his profession, MacDonald is always willing to encourage and help others enjoy the benefits of outdoor activity.
Can you describe your trail-running activity in the local area?
After moving to Simcoe County about 30 years ago, I first discovered trails near my home in Midhurst, and then, over the past decade or so, in the Orillia and Horseshoe Valley areas. I am now lucky to have Simcoe County’s Copeland Forest as my backyard. I love being in the woods and try to get out for a trail run four or five times a week, often with the two family dogs.
Why do you recommend trail running as a way to keep active?
The most important reason for me, and also for many others, is just getting outside in nature. There is an increasing body of research showing time of nature is important — for both the physical and mental health benefits. Researchers have compared being active in an urban environment with a forest environment. The results show that stress levels are lower when activity takes place in a natural outdoor environment.
Secondly, it can be easier on the body than running on pavement, especially in Simcoe County. The clay and sandy soil provides a soft surface and is more forgiving on joints and muscles.
I also like the diversity of trail running. Not only are there many different trail locations, but there is so much variety — from straight and flat to highly technical with ups and downs and obstacles like rocks and roots. It means you have to pay a little more attention at times.
What is the best way to get started?
I have a T-shirt that says: “How to be a trail runner: Find a trail. Run.” That’s about it!
There are things you can learn about trail running, like cadence, foot placement, body position for running up and down hills, but the most important thing is just to start out on a trail where you feel comfortable, such as a simple and fairly flat trail. You can start out walking, then add a bit of running and slowly increase the running time. If you’re outside in nature, moving your body and getting your heart rate safely elevated, you’re going to benefit.
The more technical skills can come later if — well, more likely when — you get hooked.
Do you need any specialized clothing or equipment?
The great thing about running is that there isn’t a lot of gear that’s needed. That doesn’t mean you can’t spend a small fortune on things like hydration vests, sport watches, and other high-tech gadgets, but you don’t have to. I do recommend getting a pair of runners that are specifically made for trail running because they provide added support and traction, which is really important.
What are the best places to run on trails in and around Orillia?
For those just starting out, the rail trail (Uhthoff Trail in Orillia and beyond) is great. There are a couple of off-shoots near Orillia that are nice, too — the Slessor and Silver Creek tracts, which are part of the Simcoe County Forest system. Simcoe County has a fantastic interactive map that shows all of the county forests, including my favourite, Copeland, near Horseshoe Valley in Oro-Medonte. There are a variety of access points including the parking lot at the Horseshoe Resort cross-country ski lodge.
Hardwood Ski and Bike also has a well-maintained trail system. Runners can purchase a special membership or pay-as-you-go to use the trails. Signage on the trails is excellent and there’s lots of variety. Plus, there’s the safety factor of having staff onsite.
Closer to Orillia, there is also the Couchiching Conservancy’s Grant’s Woods trail and Scout Valley, both good locations to enjoy a trail run.
What about safety?
It really comes down to common sense and choosing a route that you are familiar with, along with suitable weather conditions. If you are unfamiliar with the trail, I would recommend running with someone else. It’s always a good idea to bring along your smartphone; it gives you a built-in GPS and phone for emergencies.
And because most trails are multi-use, it’s important to be alert and not to wear earbuds or headphones, especially on technical trails. You are often sharing the trail and forest with cyclists, hikers and even horses. And during certain times of the year, there are hunters, so you may want to consider carrying a bell or whistle and wearing bright colours. If I am running with my dogs, I make sure to keep them on a leash.
Are there organized trail runs or races in the local area?
Yes! The beauty of trail running is that it allows you to get out on your own and at your own pace. However, there is a whole community of trail runners in the area. Although many events have been cancelled this year, there are typically a variety of runs and races that can add to your social or competitive nature. Hardwood Hills offers a trail-running series, including races for kids. Both the Five Peaks Ontario Trail Races and Ontario Ultra series offer race events throughout the province, including the popular “Pick Your Poison Run” in Horseshoe Valley.
Local outdoor enthusiast and fitness instructor Virginia Gingras offers trail-running groups and instruction in the Horseshoe Valley area. She has also produced an excellent map of the Copeland Forest area that is available for purchase through her website.
“From a casual walk-run on your local rail trail to a long-distance technical run along a forest trail, there are lots of ways, and reasons, to get started with trail running,” concludes MacDonald.
In addition to inspiring others through his own activity and love of nature, MacDonald continues to encourage people to be active outside through his involvement as a member of the board of directors of the Copeland Forest Friends Association. He is also chair of the health and wellness sector with Sustainable Orillia.
