Ask the Trail Sisters

I know we are all supposed to do it, but how important is strength training for overall running fitness? And if you could only do one exercise, what would it be and why?

I see lots of people using them, both in hiking and trail running, and I’m thinking about getting some. Are they mainly used for going uphill, and is there a technique to using them?

How do you fight off the feelings of doubt or imposter syndrome?

I’d love to hear your advice on dealing with trouble causing comments that are made to discredit race or adventure efforts on social media. I recently posted about an FKT I accomplished and was proud of, but received comments on how it wasn’t fast, that it was an easy course, and other things that stole the joy from my effort.

I have a 100 mile race coming up where I’ll be running throughout the night. This will be my first time running for longer than two hours in the dark and I’m a bit nervous about it. Do you have any recommendations on headlamps, and any tips on embracing those long dark hours?

How do you conquer any fears of running or hiking alone? Are there precautions you take?

Speedwork: Is it really all that important, and if I need to do it, how much should I be doing per week?

Currently, I walk almost 3 miles every day, but I’d really like to start jogging. Would it be better to follow a walk/run routine or just jog as long as I can? Any guidance would be much appreciated.

How do you train for altitude and vert if you live at sea level or in a flat-ish area? Any tips, tricks, or suggestions would be great!

I am a newer trail runner, and definitely back of the pack. I struggle with body image and would love to hear your thoughts about accepting one’s body the way it is, rather than trying to fit the mold of a traditional thin runner.

I’m fearful of falling when running downhill. Do you have any tips or techniques that can help me?

How do you prioritize training without feeling guilty about your mom duties?

I enjoy adventuring on the trails (both hiking and running) but am always doing it solo. What do you do to keep yourself safe, or what precautions do you take?

How do you handle cat calls or unwanted comments?

How much is too much when running with your dog?

When should you give in and turn around and when should you push through?

How do you know when you should legitimately call it quits from a hard fall/nagging injury vs. sucking it up and continuing the race?

How will I know when my body is ready to jump from the half marathon to the 50k, or the 50k to the 50 mile?