Running is one of the best activities we can choose to do in these modern times. It forms a basis for virtually any other sport where the physical condition is important, strengthens our cardiovascular system, and burns off those nasty centimeters.

Venti Views/Unsplash | Is the surface all that important?

But, if one has a choice, which is better?

The road, or asphalt better yet, is a safe option, to call it that. You know what to expect – a flat, hard surface, with little or no chances of springing your ankle or running into trouble, pun intended. And, it is close to most of us, for most populated areas have roads.

As opposed to that, it might take you some time to get to find a good trail. And, it might be a bit further away from your home than convenient. Trail running traditionally takes more time, hours sometimes, so it is not all that easy to fit into a daily schedule.

Trail running is also dangerous, much more so than road running. The surface is rarely ever flat, you can injure yourself easily if you do not pay 100% attention at all times, which is hard since running takes so much time. And, there is also a possibility of running into a snake or something like that.

But, beyond those obvious differences, if we are looking at which option yields better results in terms of burning calories and shaping you up, which one is better? Or, if both options have their own pros and cons, what are those beyond the obvious?

Alessio Soggetti/Unsplash | Off the beaten path

Trail Running

Trail running is not what most people might think. It is not running on rocky terrain or in the marshes and mud, although some dedicated people do it. Trail running simply means running off the road, or asphalt. It doesn’t have to be far away in the wilderness.

But, you will most likely have cleaner air and more oxygen, which is imperative for running. Also, as opposed to asphalt, earth and grass are much softer, meaning your joints will take significantly less strain.

The fact that you have to stay focused all the time is good for practicing focus in general and it is a beautiful escape from the smoggy streets or a city. There’s less noise, less people, and much more enjoyable. Also, running on challenging terrain will increase your skill as you will have to learn proper posture, control, and balance.

Emma Simpson/Unsplash | You don't always have to go off the road to get clean air

Road Running

As opposed to trail, road running is quite familiar to most people. And, it is virtually opposite in every way. It is cleaner running on asphalt a lot and that flat, consistent surface is sometimes welcome when you really need to keep a steady pace and range of movement.

Which is better?

Trail running is more exciting, but road running is perhaps better for listening to music and losing yourself in the repetitive rhythm. Both methods have their own advantages, but the off-road trail is perhaps for more dedicated people, who have more time for the running, and for washing the gear every day.

If you are able, it is best to do a combination. If you are doing a run for three times a week, you can do two of those on the road, during the work week, and then go for a trail on the weekend and test yourself. And, do try and make good use of nice weather, because as soon as the rainy season starts, the trail stops being such an attractive option.