TFM94: Injury Prevention For Trail Runners: Interview With Mandy

Trail running and mountaineering training often lead to high injury rates, yet these can be mitigated through strategic programming changes. Dr. Mandy Real, a sports chiropractor specializing in trail and ultra-running, emphasizes that pain is a signal rather than an absolute indicator of structural damage, advocating for continued activity during rehabilitation. Central to injury prevention is heavy strength training—specifically squats, deadlifts, and carries—which builds physical resilience. Athletes should aim for heavy loads where the final set approaches an RPE of 8, rather than relying on high-repetition, low-weight workouts that mimic cardio. Furthermore, ignoring persistent pain often leads to chronic issues like bone spurs, making early professional assessment vital. Telehealth provides an effective medium for diagnosing and managing these injuries, allowing athletes to maintain their training lifestyle while receiving expert guidance on load management and movement quality.