The Atlanta Trail Running group is for runners throughout the Metro Atlanta area who like to trail run.

Sometimes after a run we have a breakfast/brunch/lunch that follows. We enjoy diversity in our trails, restaurants, and running cohorts. We like outdoor adventure, and sometimes combine trail running with canoeing/kayaking or mountain biking.

Metro Atlanta and North Georgia is a Trail Runner's heaven with some great trails! We have 50+ trails in Atlanta. Trail Running is different from road running. Running on dirt is much kinder on the joints.

Why join this group?
We all know of a special trail and can share that knowledge with other like-minded runners. We can also learn their special trails. Being in a group provides some margin of safety when running on remote or unfamiliar trails. Trail running buddies can also be motivational.

So if you are tired of running the same old roads, dodging traffic, and smelling the fumes of cars and trucks, come on and lets trail run.

This group is for those of us who enjoy running within nature. Trail runners are much different than those road runners who seem to enjoy pounding the pavement more than a hike through the woods. For me, this group isn't about races (though feel free to use it as training!) but rather is about getting a good low impact workout by running through beautiful scenery.

If you want to learn different trails, we have 100+ trails listed in the message Board to choose from.

Who should join this group?

We are safety conscious and do not leave anyone behind in the middle of the woods, so to make if fun for all runners, if you can comfortably run 4-5 miles on roads then you are ready to take on the local trails with us.

Of note though, If you would like to be an organizer and lead trail running events that are shorter than the 5+ miles that we currently run, you are welcome to contact me (Jay W) to start organizing events for more beginning trail runners.

Our runs are generally on the northside of Atlanta because this is where I (Jay W, the organizer lives). WE need more organizers for other 50+ trail running locations through metro Atlanta!!!! 

Top 10 Reasons to Trail Run instead of running on pavement:
10) Adds variety to your routine.

9) Softer surfaces like dirt will shield your feet, shins, knees, & back from hard impact... therefore eliminating/reducing chronic injuries, aches, and pains.

8) Beat the heat, especially in the sometimes fiercely hot/humid summer months of HotAtlanta.

7) Offers protection from the wind-chill in cold months.

6) Photosynthesis and escape from car fumes give you cleaner respiration.

5) Develops Zen-like focus on the ground before you in order not to trip on rock outcroppings and tree roots.

4) Because of their uneven surface, trails provide some strength training for the ankles, quads, and calves. It is great for core muscles.

3) No two steps are quite alike.

2) You get to run right through the middle of Beautiful Scenery.

1) You often get to see deer.

If you have never run the trails before, check out these instructional videos:

Common Mistakes in Trail Running: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aqeed4_tMEI

Trail Running tips - getting started: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DAD-jBlo-8

How Trail Running is a total body workout, develops core strength, & adds years to your running career: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJcR8bJCnRg&feature=related

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