No matter whether one is running on small forest paths, technical trails or their local mountain, trail running is guaranteed to never be boring. It can provide a truly exhilarating experience in nature. As Steven Rindner says that the popularity of trail runs, as well as trail running races has significantly gone up over the years. There are many runners who eventually find themselves drawn to the starting line. While some may like the idea of gathering with like-minded souls in the woods, many others want to test their physical limits in a supportive environment.

Steven Rindner talks about how to prepare for trail race day

Preparing for trail race day requires more than just physical training, as it involves strategic planning, mental readiness, and logistical organization. No matter whether it is the first race of a runner or one of many, the key to success lies in how well one prepares in the days leading up to the event and how they manage the race day itself. Here are a few trail race day that runners should follow:

• Eat smart: Runners should consider having a light meal about an hour or two before the race. They should not arrive at the start hungry, or expend energy to digest things that are high in fat or fiber during the race.
• Arrive early: It would be a good idea to plan for a pre-race meeting or timing-chip pickup, if the race requires either one. Runners need to give themselves enough time to overcome any unanticipated traffic issues. 
• Ease into the race: Mass starts are pretty common, and hence runners should and settle into a comfortable spot in the pack. They should try their best to stick to the training pace.
• Singletrack passing etiquette: Runners need to look for a wider section of trail and make sure that no hazards lurk to the left or the right. It would be better to should “passing on the left” while approaching, to give the fellow runner enough time to move to the right.
• Singletrack being-passed etiquette: Runners must move to the right as soon as they hear “passing on left”.
• Leave the music at home: Even if they are allowed, running with buds crammed in the ears is bad form. Runners wouldn’t be able to hear approaching runners or anticipate hazards ahead of time if there is music blasting in their ears. Rather, runners should immerse themselves fully in the race experience.

As Steven Rindner mentions, having a proper pair of trail running shoes is important when participating in a trail race. These shoes should have sufficient grip so that the runners do not slip on various surfaces underfoot. Allowing a thumb’s width of room at the front of the shoe is a rule of thumb for a proper fit. In addition to footwear, choosing the right apparel for the race day is also important. Runners must specially make sure that the tights or shorts they choose to wear do not chafe their inner thighs.