Why does the trail have a role to play in the ecological transition?

In principle, all players in society have a role to play in the ecological transition. Admittedly, not all have the same vocation, nor the same impact, but it is only by acting together and in cooperation that we will succeed in achieving the objectives defined by the IPCC.

However, not all sports are moving forward at the same pace. Because of tradition, resistance to change, lack of awareness or commercial pressures, some disciplines, even ultra-popular ones, fail to get their practitioners on board.

Trail running, by virtue of the connection it offers with the environment, the mental qualities required to practice it, but also the values that define it, makes it perhaps THE sport best suited to address the issue of ecological transition. We explain.

A true link with nature

A former French President once said "our house is burning and we're looking the other way". Despite the fires, record heat and intensifying drought, humanity is doing very little. There's no need to blame them. There are plenty of good and bad reasons for inaction. It seems more interesting to reflect on what would motivate all citizens to act in the right direction. Proximity to nature and the living can be a good denominator.

Trail running is much more than outdoor exercise. It's about reconnecting with life. Our various outings take us off the beaten track, to places where few people go, to wilderness areas and to adapting to them. By moving away from artificial and sterile areas, we face irregularity, surprises and discomfort. We encounter flora and fauna, varied terrain and changing weather conditions. These hazards reinforce our ability to adapt and our humility. We learn to deal with unpredictable situations, which is a skill we need in everyday life and in times of crisis...

A sport that makes you resilient

As every trail runner knows, reaching your goal or finishing a race is an achievement that comes with a healthy dose of joy, gratitude and pride. You feel relaxed, happy and confident. And yet, to get to this point, this success has inevitably been accompanied by chronic injury, fatigue, pain, loneliness and self-doubt. As an individual, this is perfect training for the climate crisis, because it makes you resilient. Through difficulty, long effort and perseverance, we change our perspective, become more attentive, better able to understand ourselves and our surroundings. This mental, as well as physical, resilience is acquired forever and can help us overcome everyday challenges, such as changing our lifestyle.

Values consistent with responsible behavior

In addition to the mental and physical benefits of trail running, it is based on values that go hand in hand with responsible behavior. Authenticity, humility, fair play, respect and solidarity are the values that define trail running according to the Trail Ethics Charter.

Authenticity, because this sport favours harmony between man and nature, without artifice. Humility, because in the face of nature, modesty is fundamental. Fair play, because to cheat is to lose in the long run. Fairness, because together we go further. Respect, because trail running is above all about taking care of others, yourself and the environment. And solidarity, because in a natural environment, cooperation is a necessity for survival.

What if going green wasn't so complicated after all? All it takes is a bit of trail riding to get you ready...