Here are our twelve top tips to tackle running through mud!
1. Get a grip
Having sufficient tread on your trail shoe (if you can keep it from getting clogged up) as well as the right grip type for the terrain is going to make a big difference. From massive lugs, to old school spikes and everything in between, trail shoes have many different treads, they are also made of different softness of rubber, grip patterns and depth of grip. Know which ones have the best grip for your terrain.
2. Be brave
On short mud sections, its best to just plough straight on through, keeping your stride and gait unchanged. That way you won’t risk a slip on the edge of the path which could see you not only land puddle bound but worse with a twisted an ankle.
3. Hidden depths
Some puddles are worse than others, watch out for those ones at the side of roads which could see you knee deep or have an uneven bottom. Be aware of narrow tracks which mountain bikers and horses use which can deep uneven ruts.
4. Bog off
Just avoid bogs, areas of the Peak District are notorious. You can spend days getting out of those. If you do get stuck in them, spread your weight out as much as possible.
5. Shorten your stride
Over long muddy sections, the temptation is to over stride in the mud as you dance around the worst of it, but actually shortening your stride will not only reduce the weighting of each footfall but also increase your balance.
6. Expect to slide
By anticipating a slippery trajectory you won’t get caught out by it. Relax and go with the flow.
7. Speed and Direction
Powering through a muddy section can often mean you have enough forward momentum to reduce slipping from side to side which can happen if you are just plodding through. Also, don’t be tempted to change speed and direction at the same time, slow down and then change direction, this will reduce out of control moments.
8. Keep warm
Leggings or better still a good coating of freshly dried mud will keep your legs warm so you can tackle all the mud and puddles on route with warm and reactive muscles.
9. Use your poles
As George Orwell once wrote… “4 legs are better than 2”. Use the poles to dance along the path, jump the puddles with added security. Possibly even stop and use them as a depth gauge. Keep your hands out of the straps if you are at risk of falling, broken wrists are worse than muddy legs.
10. Goretex trail shoes?
Tricky one, depends on whether you are going to be consistently running through puddles, if so, don’t bother with waterproof shoes as they are more likely to become waterlogged as the water struggles to get out.
11. Strengthen your core
Strength and conditioning exercises for your core and leg muscles will help maintain your balance as well as reduce reaction times.
12. Have fun!
Embrace the mud with the right attitude and you’ll enjoy it more plus find it easier to tackle!
