Trevor Guthrie

The Grammy-nominated runner behind the hit single ‘This Is What It Feels Like.’

“A nd I don’t even know how I survive…No I don’t even know if I’m alive,” are not only the thoughts that you may have during the final Ks of a hard race, but also a few of the lyrics of Canadian artist Trevor Guthrie’s song with Dutch DJ Armin van Buuren, entitled, ‘This Is What It Feels Like.’ You may also be familiar with Guthrie from his more recent single, ‘Summertime’ (which is definitely worth adding to your summer running playlist). Those of you with a longer memory may remember him from the Canadian boy band, soul Decision, who had a hit single, ‘Faded,’ in 2000. The group broke up a few years later, leaving Guthrie to continue in the music industry solo, fighting the stereotype of an ex-boy band member, which he has now solidly overcome as a respected solo artist. His new song was released at the end of July.

As many a runner can relate, there is no better sport for someone with an unpredictable and travel-laden schedule than running. “Running is just the best way to stay in shape because you can do it from anywhere, just put on your shoes and out the door you go. I find that a lot of the hotels I stay at are great at recommending local routes,” Guthrie says.

While his career might mean that weekly runs take place all over the world, for Guthrie there is no route quite as good as the Lynn Loop trail which originates right by his home base in North Vancouver. “I love fitness, but I don’t love hitting the gym when it’s a beautiful day and I have incredible trails right outside my back door,” Guthrie says.

Somewhat surprisingly, the man who learned to play the piano at age three (a feat he credits his grandmother for), does not run with music. “I run to clear my head. Plus, when I’m running the trails, there are rocks, roots and the occasional log to cross over a creek, so I find I need to focus on where I’m putting my foot each step,” Guthrie explains. Having watched a buddy break an ankle while becoming distracted on the trails, Guthrie knows quiet concentration is key. The mental challenge and scenery are the main reasons he prefers the trails over the roads, but he also finds the trail easier on his joints.

The 43-year old has wise advice for newcomers in the music industry, as well as the running community. To aspiring artists, he says, “keep your songs honest and keep writing what you know. People will connect.” To new runners, his advice is more light-hearted, “Don’t begin your running career with an all-out 6k. Take it from me – it hurts a lot the next day. Take it slowly at first and build up from there.”–

“I love fitness, but I don’t love hitting the gym when it’s a beautiful day and I have incredible trails right outside my back door.”