Trail Running in Scotland at 53-off Road Running

Having been into sports most of my life and having raced mountain bikes in the '90s, I used running as a fun way to stay healthy. However, I had to retire from running in 1994 due to the worst shin splints the local football team physio had ever seen. So, why am I back to running after so many years?

The video above was taken on March 9, 2025. The loop out in the valley near St Fillans is 7 miles long, with 4.7 miles involving running. The weather was a bit crazy—so warm it felt like a midsummer’s day.

So Why Do I Bother Running When I Do Mostly Hiking?

Having health issues that see me at the doctor’s and hospital at least twice a month—for legs that don’t work, lower back pain, and hypoglycemia—can make life very difficult, sometimes nearly impossible. Keeping fit is one of the main things that helps keep some of these issues under control (sort of). When I’m hiking, my lower back and legs become stiff and extremely painful, and that’s where running comes in.

At 53 and feeling fit for the scrap yard, I still think I can do what I used to. Being a driven person who wants to push the limits, I find that running offers something hiking just can’t.

Getting back to running after so many years took a lot of effort, many trips to the doctor and hospital, and a five-month break due to a muscle tear, which was painful to deal with."

Getting back into running started as just an idea. I began by slowly jogging downhill for short distances, then walking again to see if my knees and shins could handle the stress. Gradually, I increased the distance of the downhill runs, eventually incorporating running into every downhill section while hiking. This approach helped build confidence and fitness without pushing myself too hard.

After about three weeks, I started running on flat sections, then combined downhill and flat terrain. Slowly, I began taking on small uphill sections while carefully monitoring how my legs handled the trails.

Trail or off-road running is extreme, to say the least. It’s dangerous—one slip could mean a broken ankle, leg, or arm. And that’s exactly why I love the challenge of running over hiking."

Running is so fun and rewarding, pushing you to your limits. Whether it’s raining, muddy, snowing, or whatever the conditions, it can push you to the max. The danger levels reach new highs—one slip, and boom, a broken ankle. But it teaches you about life, about nature, and about your place in the world.

I will add to this blog! but never given in, always keep pushing yourself to the limits.