Fox Avatar "Protected" by Hester Cox - Printmaker
Another crucial tip.
Go before you start
Because if you don't, running, especially up and down hills and for long distances, sure as hell gets things moving.
Try out new carb drinks before using them in races or events, because they can get you going too...
Tao begets one. One begets two. Two begets all things.
Dont assume the runner just in front knows where he is going.
(AKA most runners are lemmings)
Dont assume the runner a long way in front is even part of your race.
(AKA how several people end up at 3 shires on the langdale race)
Dont assume that just because the runner in front has a compass, he knows how to use it. (AKA it could be desparation!)
well the 10 we went for were in no particular order:
1. Keep Navigation Simple
2. Be Safe when out alone (descending/gear etc)
3. Enjoy it
4. Don't be intimidated, it isn't as hard as you think.
5. Join a club (not essential but useful)
6. How and what to eat
7. Get racing
8. Take your time, prepare to be fustrated, walk bits etc
9. get kitted up, Road shoes are Ok, but fell shoes needed eventually
10. Techniques, descending and ascending, no hard and fast rules, just general views.
BTW thanks for all the suggestions. The BMC approached us to write a short article for the next issue of Summit, in the form of a top 10 tips for beginners style. They had a cancellation so we had to get it together in a few days. Anyway its out in August. It was unpaid, just thought I'd get some wider views.
Cheers
Iain