Sports Supplement 2014: Run for the Hills

Running in the city has its benefits – it’s convenient, there are streetlights and you’re never too far from a bus stop if it all gets a bit much. But if you want to leave the bright lights behind and really put yourself through your paces, it’s time to head for the hills.

Hill running sounds extreme, but it doesn’t have to be – after all, it’s up to you to choose the size of the hills and the pace you tackle them at. That said, running off road is generally a bit more strenuous than city jaunts, so don’t be surprised if you notice your times slipping and taking things a bit slower than normal.

Running around the hills comes with distinct benefits – not only is it tougher, but you’ll be challenging your muscles as you swap the Tarmac for turf. Uneven ground means you’ll be pushing your body harder and getting more of an all over body workout in the process.

There are also the psychological benefits that come with leaving the smog behind for some good old-fashioned fresh air. It’s not just about working your legs, it’s a great way to clear your mind and hit the reset button. Chris Asquith, a hill runner from Edinburgh, explains: “I started running as a way to get fit, but the more I do it, the more it has become an excuse to explore new places and get out into the hills. It has definitely opened up new possibilities.

“I tend to run in the Pentlands or around Blackford Hill for a number of reasons. One of the biggest things for me is that the variety of terrain keeps things interesting – you only need to get to the top of a hill or run through a stretch of trees to feel like you are in the middle of nowhere. I love the feeling of solitude while often only being a stone's throw from civilisation. Plus the more hills I run up the more cake I can eat.”