Foto: LOWA/Matthias Paintner

Trail running not only offers an intensive workout amongst nature but also the opportunity to discover breathtaking scenery and push your own limits. We've compiled a few key tips and tricks to ensure your next trail running adventure is a complete success.

Route planning

Before setting off, it’s important to ask yourself a few basic questions:

• Am I familiar with the route? How long do I want to be out for (duration, kilometres, altitude)? Am I planning the route in digital or analogue format? What's the best direction to run in? Am I planning my own route or am I using an existing one?
• How will I get to my starting point? How will I get home afterwards? Are there ways to shorten the route if I'm low on energy (e.g. hiking shuttle, public transport, etc.)?
• How will I navigate across the terrain? Am I using my GPS watch, smartphone or a physical map? Is the route signposted or not? How many rest stops will I factor in?
• How much nutrition will I bring with me? Where can I refill my water? Where can I stop for a bite to eat?
• What is the weather like? What clothing and equipment do I need to take?

Good practices for the mountains

• Check the local weather forecast before setting off.
• Run with a friend if possible.
• Take enough spare clothing, food and drink with you.
• Stick to official hiking trails.
• Bring any rubbish back with you to the valley for disposal.
• Wear a layer of dry clothing during longer stops or when reaching your destination.
• Be aware of altitude exposure. Breathing becomes significantly more difficult from 1,500 m above sea level.
• Don’t overdo it and abandon your plans or call someone if in doubt.

Overview of the Swiss hiking network

• www.map.geo.admin.ch: federal geo platform showing the entire Swiss hiking network in detail, including filters for closures and public transport stops.
• www.schweizmobil.ch: SwitzerlandMobility is the national network for non-motorised personal transport. The ‘Hiking’ setting displays the entire Swiss hiking network, offers various route suggestions and the Plus version (40 Francs/year) offers a simple planning tool that calculates the times for trail runners thanks to the new ‘Trail running’ filter option.

You should download these 2 apps

MeteoSwiss

Since trail running takes place outdoors, a reliable weather forecast is crucial to the success of your run. Bad weather, hail or storms are usually announced in advance. MeteoSwiss provides everything you need to know weather-wise, including good preparation of the existing data. The app now also provides Alertswiss alarm notifications.

Rega app

Every smartphone should be sure to have this free emergency app by the Swiss air rescue service. In an emergency, you can alert the Rega operations centre with a simple swipe. Your location will be automatically transmitted and a telephone connection established.