In this episode, Michaela shares her experience stepping off the roads and onto the trails for her very first trail half marathon. Alongside Erin, the two unpack the differences between road and trail racing, the ego shift required, and why chasing pace isn’t the goal when dirt, rocks, and mountains are involved. If you’ve ever thought about trying trail running—or wondered what it really feels like—this one’s for you.

What You’ll Hear:

• The decision-making process behind skipping another marathon and choosing trails instead
• How road running fitness translates (and doesn’t) to the trails
• The mental shift required to embrace slower paces and walking climbs
• Nutrition differences between road and trail racing (and why Nerds Clusters made an appearance)
• The unexpected community vibe of trail racing compared to the roads
• Race morning nerves, blue flag fears, and why aid stations weren’t what Michaela expected

CONNECT WITH US:
IG: @sfsrunners
Coach Erin: @therunningrosen
Coach Michaela: @michaela_robertson_
WEBSITE: https://www.stridesforstrength.com/

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