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In recent weeks I’ve been reflecting on what trail running means to me, probably because I’ve not been able to spend as much time out on the trails as I’d have liked.

During this reverie, I was reminded of a YouTube video I first stumbled across after listening to an episode of the Trail Runner Nation podcast called Community, Connection and the Joy of Running.

The podcast (it was back in January, episode 712 - these guys have been around for a while) was with a runner and coach called Jimmy Dean Freeman, who runs Coyote Running in West Los Angeles.

What caught my ear, if you’ll excuse the expression, in that episode was a discussion about the “unwritten code of ethics” in trail running, what it means to runners and our responsibility to uphold it.

One way to really appreciate this - albeit not one I’d recommend - is to take a break from the trails. Because that’s when you really miss it. And that’s where I’ve found myself in the past few months.

Anyway, back in 2012, Jimmy and the Coyote runners created a video called “The Way of the Trail Runner” which sets out this code. It really resonated with me. And that’s why I’m sharing it with you.

The video sets out what are effectively rules to live by on the trails, what they dubbed the “Coyote Bushido” - a code that offers guidance on “how to run, how to race - maybe even how to live your life”.

In the podcast, Jimmy explains that he’s a fan of Japanese culture, and “bushido” is defined as the code of honour and morals developed by the Japanese samurai.

I think it’s a pretty good list:

Your Physical Health is Ground Zero

“Running should enhance your health, not tear you apart.” This is all about realising recovery is an important part of the process and pushing too hard will only lead to injury and/or burn out. The message: listen to your body.

Respect the Run

“Even a bad run is still part of a great day more often than not.” Running is a great way to challenge yourself and to become stronger, literally step-by-step. It’s also a great demonstration of the truism you get out what you put in. The message: running is a gift.

Respect the Athlete

“Anyone and everyone who runs, hikes, walks … deserves our respect.” No matter the distance, no matter the speed. The message: if you run, you are not just a runner, you are an athlete.

Respect the Trails

“Mother Earth deserves your deepest respect.” Wherever you live, you can find a great place to run - whether it’s a park, a beach or a trail. The message: look after the trails.

Remember where you started

“Whether it was 28 years ago, or 28 days ago, remember how far you’ve come.” We spend far too much time wishing we were faster, fitter, stronger and able to move better. Instead, maybe we should be thinking of how much we’ve improved. The message: never lose sight of how far you’ve come.

Thou Shalt Not Envy (Another Runner)

“Measure yourself against yourself. And be generous with that measurement.” When people improve it’s because they’ve worked hard. Don’t begrudge that, celebrate it with them. And take a glass half full approach to your own running. The message: comparison is the thief of joy.

Lead by Example

“Commit yourself to having an impact on the lives of others, runners and non-runners alike.” Running brings us joy. It improves your physical health and your mental well-being. Encourage others, wherever they are on their running journey. This includes during a race. If you come across a runner who’s struggling, don’t just smile and wave as you blast past. Stop, check in, and make sure they’re okay. The message: spread the love.

The All In Mentality

“You never know which run or race will be your last.” Running is simple, but joyous. Never lose sight of how profound an impact it has or how much you’ll miss it if you can no longer do it. The message: don’t take your ability to run for granted.

Have Fun At All Costs

“If you’re not having fun, you’re doing it wrong.” It’s fun to improve, it’s fun to hit your goals. But at its core running should be about enjoyment. The message: it’s better to sacrifice performance goals than to turn running into a chore.

Pedro It (Finish Strong)

“No matter how deep you dig, there is always more you can give.” This is about finishing strong. Aim for the last 5k of a long distance race to be your fastest 5k. If you can run, you can run hard. The exception is when you’ve been running with someone. Then the rule “thou shalt not drop the hammer on a partnership” applies. The message: when you are close to the finish, double down and get it done. (It’s called “Pedroing it” in honour of long-time Coyote Pedro Martinez because it was inspired by his approach.)

There are Many Eyes in Team

“Represent yourself as you would like your team-mates to represent you.” Whether formally or informally, when you run you are part of a team. The great thing about this is that even on a bad day, you can enjoy the success of others instead of wallowing in self-pity. The message: when it comes to running, we will all experience good, bad and ugly days. Celebrate them all.

Despite the massive high of the New York Marathon, not being able to run much of late has been tough. I’ve missed the physical exertion and the “mental decluttering” that running is a catalyst for.

I’ve missed the trails in particular because they offer the opportunity to be more fully immersed in nature. But I’ve also missed just feeling a part of the trail running community. That tribe of people who, even though most of them have never heard of the “Coyote Bushido”, understand exactly the sentiment it’s driving at.

Maybe Jimmy says it best on Trail Runner Nation: “The bottom line is there isn’t another tribe in the athletic and endurance world quite like the trail running community.”

Upcoming Events

There are way too many events for me to list everything that’s happening around the country, but here is a selection of upcoming races (with a bias towards South East Queensland).

The Running Calendar website is a great source if you want a comprehensive understanding of what’s available aro