17th July 2017. In many ways, it is easy to discount running as a sport that only takes place primarily on flat ground. You see runners on footpaths, on designated tracks, and on the treadmill ? always relatively flat terrain. Sure, you might occasionally run up and down a road that goes over a hill, but that's all, right? For some, this is what makes it the perfect activity: you can zone out and focus in on just improving your fitness. For others, though, it could be a path to boredom and dissatisfaction. The good news is that there is another type of running you might not have heard about before. Called fell running, it owes some of its origins to the unique terrain found in the countryside of the UK. Fell running focuses less on a dedicated trail and more on tackling runs that also include a substantial altitude change. In other words, the farther you run, the higher up your feet will carry you. Fell running adds a unique challenge and could potentially have many other positive benefits for an individual, too. However, before you decide to take on fell running, it's worth looking at both the pros and cons for this sport. Should you try it out, or just stick to trail running? First, let's look more closely at what fell running is all about.

What is fell running? A quick explanation

In short, fell running isn't just about tackling an incline. The word "fell" literally refers to the hills and valleys found throughout the moors of England and Scotland. In fact, the sport originated in Scotland more than a thousand years ago. Thus, rather than involving smooth paved ground, fell running covers varying terrain. Elevation increases can be slow, or you could find yourself running (or walking) up a very steep hill. Running on the way back down is a big part of the challenge too. Today, hill running finds popularity primarily across Europe, but there are many runners still participating in the birthplace of the sport. So, what should you know when considering taking up hill or trail running soon?

Pro: It is just as good for you as other types of running

No matter how you stack them up, fell and trail running are equally as good for the body and for developing physical fitness. Your heart rate will go up just the same, while you may see added benefits regarding muscle tone development. Your calves must work hard to power through uphill sections, after all. While you do need to be more mindful of terrain to avoid injuries like a twisted ankle, the sport is often safer than other types of running, too. There is no danger of being struck by a vehicle when you are out in the country, rushing downhill!

Con: It can be harder to cover the same distance

If distance running is important to you, you may struggle with hill running. While many courses do cover substantial distances, going out on your own requires thoughtful route planning. You're more likely to count time running than distance, as the terrain can make it difficult to assess how far you travelled. So, if you prefer to train for a marathon or to put in so many miles every week, a trail that you know and understand may yield better results. Other fell courses may simply be too long for you to feel you can run comfortably. Difficult terrain is a drawback for those who prefer uniformity on their runs.

Pro: Delivers a more diverse set of challenges

The only real challenges you face on the trail are those you make up for yourself. Go farther, reach a distance milestone faster, execute an interval workout ? it works, but it is routine. The weather can make the same climb a much greater challenge one day than it does another. You can try approaching from a different angle. You can spend days just training how to master your downhill running skills properly. These provide a new and fresh approach to a sport that may bore you. Hills and different fell areas have many new secrets to unlock.

Con: Requires a more diverse type of landscape

Of course, accessing these diverse landscapes comes with its own problem. What if you don't live anywhere near to them? Someone residing in the city will have less of an opportunity to go fell running than someone closer to the country. While you can always travel to participate, that comes with several trade-offs. You won't be able to dedicate time to practising consistently. You will also incur the expenses that come with travelling for the sole purpose of running. If you have access to good terrain, this is not a problem. For many people, though, it could very well be a barrier.

Pro: Runners of any skill level can enjoy the sport

Do you need to have a wealth of experience as a runner before you attempt hills? Should you already be in excellent shape? No! Anyone is welcome to enjoy the excitement found in hill running. Everyone can benefit from the feeling of the wind in your face as you navigate the downhill portion. Walking is even encouraged sometimes; on particularly steep hills, it may be more efficient than trying to run. You do not have to undertake a course with a daunting rise in elevation either. Stick to gentle slopes and valleys as you start out. Develop your skills here first, and then take on the bigger hills. Want to try something harder right away? Give it a try! You may surprise yourself.

Con: It still isn't as easy as running a trail

Uphill running is challenging even if you are following a paved path. Now imagine doing it several times over the course of your usual run. That is still going to involve a learning curve. Every runner has at least one experience where an overestimation of speed leads to an uncomfortable downhill tumble. If you just want to get out and run, a trail will always offer an easier alternative. If you can push through the initial difficulty, though, fell running can be an excellent workout supplement.

Pro: There is plenty of beautiful scenery

This benefit doesn't tie in to your physical fitness, but it is a definite benefit. The crisp, clean country air combined with the natural scenery make for a tantalising location to exercise. For those suffering from boredom in their usual routine, this could be exactly what you need to breathe new life into your fitness habits. With many diverse areas for fell running to choose from, there is always the possibility of something new on the horizon. Why not explore the possibilities of running on hills in other countries, too? It could be a way to see the world while you exercise.

Con: It is easier to lose focus on the exercise

All these benefits do bring with them a drawback: you can quickly start to forget you're there to run. To get the most out of the experience, participants should always focus on giving their best effort. While you can enjoy the atmosphere, don't take too much of a leisurely pace. You should still be sweating and feeling your heart pumping ? otherwise, you're just enjoying a nature walk. There is a time and place for that, but focus on the task at hand. With a trail, runners must concentrate or else they'll simply stop running. Having a solid path in front of you can make it easier to stick to your plan.

Try an experiment with this fascinating sport

As you can tell, there's a lot to consider when you think about taking up fell running. Even so, the added challenge and the new environments can be worthwhile for those tired of a regular running routine. Since it doesn't require any special training to begin, all you need to do is find a path suitable for running your area. Don't forget that there are many organised running events that cross through and up into fell regions. Soaking in the fresh air with a group of fellow runners could be the social impetus you need to stick with this sport. While it isn't for everyone, everyone should consider trying it at least once!