Variety is key in running. Mix in speed and tempo work with long runs. Cross train. Cut back on mileage every now and then to aid recovery. Variety should apply to running surfaces as well.
However, since I started running in May 2009, I've been exclusively a trail runner. Lately I've been wondering how that monotony in running surface has affected my running.
I came across an article entitled "Get Off Your Asphalt" by Mario Fraioli at Competitor Magazine. The article is primarily geared toward convincing road runners to step off the asphalt onto trails. However, the article also addresses trail runners who don't hit the pavement.
It cites two reasons for trail runners to spend some time on the road: training for road races and speed. If you run road races, you obviously need to run on roads to get your legs used to the hard surface. Further, roads typically have a smoother running surface and less hills than trails, so running at a fast pace is easier to accomplish.
I started to apply this advice to my own running. I don't run road races, so that's not a reason for me to run on pavement. However, the speed aspect got me thinking. I could definitely benefit from some faster runs in my training. I spend so much time dragging myself up hills and navigating uneven terrain that I rarely just go fast.
This should be a point of consideration for anyone like me that prefers to do the majority of their running on trails. It's inspired me to dedicate one of my short runs each week to the road. Here's hoping the variety is good for me!
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