pm--9 I went out and hit Barrel Roll w/ the Sidewinder extension. I eased into it for a mile or so and gave it more effort the rest of the run. Finished in around 1:16. Decent pace for a loop w/ nearly 1,000 ft. of climbing. While I was out, I started thinking about the trail v. road debate. There are folks who think road is a swear word, and others don't ever want to get their shoes dirty. Although I know I've been on both sides of this row at one time or another, right now, I'm smack dab in the middle. I love the road for its accessibility. I love it for the smooth ride and the way it lends itself to a steady tempo and faster running. I also love it for the street lights at o'dark thirty. Finally, it's great that one doesn't have to devote half a day to a longer run, grunting down the bitumen. In contrast, I love the trails for the varied terrain, the ups and downs, and the beautiful vistas. Changing gears is refreshing, and the quick light steps, coupled with a hyper-awareness of footfall, lends itself to an engaging time. I've also heard that the trails are good for the core. Plus, some of the greatest places in the world are accessible mostly by trail. In the end, I love both, probably equally. It's probably not the terrain as much as the activity itself that keeps me going. | 