What’s my plan for today’s run?

EXPERIENCED RUNNERS ALSO know that every run is different because the hazards change all the time. Weather, animal sightings and wildfire smoke are obvious examples. You need to identify and consider variables like these as you consider two important decisions.

The first is your route. Jeff Rowthorn from

Hamilton, is race director for Happy Trails Running and a seasoned ultrarunner who is currently preparing for the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc. “I have 40 or 50 different routes that I’ve mapped out in the past that I can access at any point,” Rowthorn says. Having a collection of known routes in your back pocket (so to speak) means you can choose the one that best reduces your exposure to that day’s hazards (e.g., weather). The best route options will also offer you an early exit if you get injured or the weather changes suddenly.

Creating that plan and sharing it with others is important, especially if you travel solo. Rowthorn often runs by himself and says, “Make sure, if you are by yourself, that somebody knows exactly where you’re going to be and at what time you’re expected back – and how long do they wait before they call for help.”

Further, relying on someone who will t ake their monitoring duties seriously is key. A concerned family member or significant other is always a better choice than a forgetful roommate. For their sake, avoid deviating from your plan unless you have a reliable way to communicate with them. And the cardinal rule? Always let them know when you’re back or risk a “bastard search.” That’s what rescuers call it if they find you at the pub.

In some situations, it may make more sense to go with a partner or a group, especially if you lack essential trail-safety skills. Rowthorn also considers issues of personal safety: “Just outside Hamilton, people aren’t afraid of animals, they’re not really afraid of the trail, they’re afraid of people. We have had attacks.” His solution is to buddy up.

“Make sure, if you are by yourself, that somebody knows exactly where you’re going to be and at what time you’re expected back – and how long do they wait before they call for help.” JEFF ROWTHORN