Fells have always been a big part of my heart ever since I was younger and my parents dragged me round the peak district. Even through my more questionable exploits through my 20’s I still managed to get out there for hiking trips. In my mid 30’s I started running and I suppose it was inevitable that I would become a fell runner.
There really is nothing quite like heading out into the countryside and doing some mileage. Much more than the headspace you get from it, those fantastic views give you a sense of perspective of your place in the world. From a training perspective there is nothing better than climbing a fell and running through rough, uneven trails and really strengthening those legs and vascular system.
I recently took a group out to my favourite part of the peak district and did the ridge walk around Edale Valley. I always love the spectacular views of the valley from up on the hills and it was great to be able to share this with other runners who haven’t experienced real fell running before. We covered approximately 12 miles starting with a scrabble up Grindsbrook before hitting the top and following the ridge around until we dropped down at Back Tor to head to the pub for a recovery pint!
