Fell Running
Those craving for a different challenge aside from running on a set track may want to try a tricky one. How about attempting to move horizontally as well as vertically in one race? Fell Running gives you that kind of challenge where you will not only have to cover a long distance but also climb to different heights during the race.
Categories
Also known as Hill Running, the courses in this sport are categorized according to the ascent (A, B and C) and the distance (L for Long, M for Medium and S for Short). In the A, B and C categories, the courses should be between 100 and 200 ft ascent per mile while having not more than 20-40 percent of distance on the road, depending on the category. For category A, the course must be at least one mile in length while C requires that the course must contain some genuine fell terrain, making it ideal for those who are new to the sport. Meanwhile, the L, M and S categories’ distances range from less than 6 miles to more than 12 miles in length. There are also additional categories, the O or the Long O category and the MM or Mountain Marathon category, which is similar to the O category though it is conducted in pairs.
Equipment
Fell Running is in some way similar to Trail Running in terms of the terrain one has to traverse. Therefore, one has to be as prepared as a Trail Runner, especially for longer trails. A Hydration Pack should be on top of your list to keep you hydrated during such an exhausting event. While bottled water may be enough for short courses, you might want to bring a hydration pack which is more convenient to use in longer courses.
While you need water to keep you going throughout the race, you do not need it to have your clothes soaked with it during bad weather conditions. You should therefore keep yourself dry with a light jacket made of breathable material. Aside from that, keeping yourself dry means keeping yourself warm too. During cold weather conditions, it would be good to wear a bonnet and a pair of gloves to keep you from getting cold.
Fell Running is a sport wherein the feet receive the most shock. So invest in a good pair of shoes for this type of event. While people differ in their views on the kind of sole the shoes must have, all of them would agree that fit and durability are the main considerations here. Don’t let your feet suffer only to wear a pair of good-looking shoes. Think of the pain your feet would have to endure in the rough and uneven Fell Running courses.
In unmarked trails, you need to have a means to navigate your way to the finish line. It is therefore important to carry a map and a compass or a global positioning system (GPS) device with you. Familiarize yourself on how to use them so you can have the extra edge in the outdoors.
Are you ready to take a tougher challenge? Consider trying Fell Running! Look for local clubs in your area who may be able to help you get started. Seek advice from other experts so you can broaden your knowledge and fuel your interest in this highly-challenging sport. If you think that this is not the type of Running for you, you might want to check out the other Running Events.
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Basics & Backgrounds
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