Running and endurance
Fell running
Fast running over hills and moorland, often off-path.
- Very hardintensity
- ~700kcal per hour
- Freebudget
- Highimpact
Is fell running right for you?
Fast running over hills and moorland, often off-path. It is a very hard-intensity, high impact activity that you can do outdoors, on your own or in a group. Expect to burn around 700 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.
Takes some practice. You can do it without spending anything.
Why try fell running
- Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
- Burns calories. At around 700 kcal an hour it can help with weight loss alongside a balanced diet.
How to start fell running
Join a fell running club's beginner run and learn routes with others.
Get the basics: fell shoes, waterproofs. Borrow or hire before you buy.
Join a beginners' session or go with someone who can show you the basics.
Warm up for five minutes first, build up gradually and stop if anything hurts.
A 4-week starter plan
| Week | Sessions | Minutes each | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 45 | Learn the basics and keep every session easy. |
| 2 | 1 | 60 | Repeat last week and add a little time. |
| 3 | 2 | 75 | Add a session or make one a bit harder. |
| 4 | 2 | 90 | Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next. |
This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.
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Not sure fell running is for you?
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