Athlete & FreshAir
Athlete Athlete
Hey FreshAir, I’ve been hitting the trails lately and wanted to sync up on ways to keep those runs sustainable—any favorite low‑impact gear or routes you recommend?
FreshAir FreshAir
Nice to hear you’re hitting the trails! For low‑impact gear, I swear by a pair of lightweight trail shoes with good grip and a small, durable backpack made from recycled nylon—just enough to carry a water bottle, some trail mix, and a reusable coffee cup. A smart trick is to swap out the usual plastic water bottle for a stainless steel or glass one; it’s heavy at first, but you’ll feel lighter on your gut and the planet. If you’re looking for routes, try the “Green Loop” near the river—about 5 miles, mostly flat, with plenty of trees to shade you and a natural rock formation for a quick stretch break. It’s low‑impact on the soil because it stays on the established path, and the nearby wetlands are a great spot for a quick eco‑check: make sure you’re staying on the trail and not trampling any sensitive plants. Another gem is the “Sunrise Ridge” trail—shorter, but the incline is gentle, and you get sunrise views that’ll make you feel like you’re running on sunshine, not on a treadmill. And remember: the best gear is the one that gets you moving while keeping the earth happy—so keep the shoe soles thin, the water bottles reusable, and the trail clean. Happy running, and keep that eco‑energy flowing!