About The Course
This course is suitable for those with some experience running on roads, who might be relatively comfortable on home trails, or has done some hill walking. It is designed to help you become more confident running independently on trails / mountains, and gain an understanding of how to train for these activities.
What will the course include?
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A variety of guided runs on trails and through easy mountain terrain.
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A slower paced run exploring the local human and natural history and gaining understanding of the mountain landscape
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Basic endurance training theory (running zones, tools, structuring your training, coaching, women specific training advice, types of run)
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Strength training and stretching for runners
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Shoes (a look a different types and their uses)
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Kit (typical event kit lists and making appropriate choices for seasons / conditions / events)
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Nutrition and fueling (including finding and assessing water on the hill)
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Route choice, planning and understanding the mountain environment (including useful tools, apps, assessing weather and conditions)
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Basic navigation skills for trail runners
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Decision making (staying safe on the mountains and trails, and what to do if it goes wrong)
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Injury prevention (warm-ups, mobility, strength work and drills for runners and why it’s so important when heading off road)
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Ascending and descending skills
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Running stories and experience from the team
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An optional shared group meal on the final evening (not included in the price)
The course runs Monday to Friday between 09:30 - 1730, but the exact nature and structure of the days will be tailored to the group and weather conditions; these will be communicated to you nearer to the time.
A typical day will involve some time learning at an indoor venue and a group run. Runners should be comfortable with runs between 5 - 15km, these will be accessibly paced for the group, and remember, a lot of mountain running is walking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be fit enough?
The course description details how far you should to be comfortable running, however the runs will often be very stop-start as we discuss things along the way. There will usually be multiple guides on a run, so we can easily cater for mixed ability groups. Remember, a good amount of trail running is actually walking! If this hasn't put your mind at ease, please get in touch for a chat.
What happens if Run The Highlands cancel the course?
If we cancel a course you will be entitled to a full refund or a place on our next available course.
Will we be outside the whole time?
We will get out for a run every day, but most days will involve an element of indoor learning as well.
Is food and accommodation included?
No. Food and accommodation are not included in our course prices, this is to allow people to cater for their own budgets and preferences. You will need to bring a packed lunch with you each day.
What does the timetable look like?
We will take into consideration weather, mountain conditions, and group ability nearer the time in order to best deliver the course content - no two courses are exactly the same! In the days before your course, you will receive an email from the team outlining the first few days and giving meeting time and place for the Monday. Usually all course activities are conducted between 09:30 and 5:30.
What is the age limit?
There is no upper limit! However, under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
When and how do I pay?
To secure your place you will pay a deposit when you book. You will then receive a welcome email with details of how to pay the remaining amount. Courses must be paid for in full no later than 24 days before the start date.
What happens if I need to cancel?
Full details of our cancellation policy can be found in our Terms & Conditions.