Читать книгу Trail and Fell Running in the Yorkshire Dales. 40 runs in the National Park, including the Three Peaks онлайн

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Good running on the Pennine Bridleway descent from Dodd Fell (Route 8) (photo: Andy Ward)

INTRODUCTION

The long descent from Great Coum to Barbondale (Route 14)

Running is one of the most popular sports in the world, which is a reflection of its inherent simplicity and ease of participation. Running in the hills and mountains can provide us with some of our best running experiences. The benefits, motivations and incentives of running, of which there are many, include the following:

Enjoyment

Being out in the countryside in the fresh air, enjoying gorgeous views and having memorable experiences, provides an escape from the more mundane aspects of the day job and family life, and allows runners a moment to themselves, for their own enjoyment and wellbeing.

Fitness

Running burns calories, makes the lungs and heart stronger and releases chemical endorphins that provide the feel-good factor. Plenty of good research demonstrates the positive health benefits of regular exercise. Running on paths and tracks reduces the repetitive stresses and strains on the body compared with running on roads. Each footstep is planted differently; your eyes and brain must coordinate their responses to negotiate the terrain ahead. Running also strengthens mental resilience and can clear the mind, allowing you to focus on the challenges ahead. When the weather takes a turn for the worse, the mental toughness needed to complete a long day out in the hills is immense.