Choosing Joy Over Pressure: My 25K Trail Race Recap for Beginner Runners

Sometimes the hardest part of running isn’t the race itself. It’s choosing which start line to stand on.

This season, I had signed up for a 55K trail race. It was supposed to be my big goal, my challenge, my “next step” as a runner. But as training went on, something felt off. My motivation dipped, and the long runs started to feel more like a chore than a joy.

Deep down, I knew I could finish the 55K. But I also knew I wouldn’t love the process—and that mattered more to me.

A few weeks before race day, I made a tough call and switched to the 25K. Not because I couldn’t do the 55K, but because I wanted to end my season feeling happy, proud, and fulfilled instead of burned out. You can actually read more about the reasons behind that decision in this Instagram post.

If you’ve ever felt guilty about adjusting your running goals, remember this — you don’t need to prove anything to anyone. There’s strength in knowing when to push and when to protect your joy. Sometimes, the best race is the one that reminds you why you started.

Trail Running with Family Support: Turning Race Weekend Into a Getaway

We decided to make race weekend a family getaway. Sébastien’s race was in the afternoon, so the girls and I spent the day cheering for him and all the other runners. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect—crisp air, clear skies, and that buzzing trail-running energy that makes you want to be part of it.

Watching him start, I could feel his nerves. Watching him finish, I could see the pride and joy written all over his face.

That evening, we grabbed dinner together, laughed about the little details of the day, and called it an early night. Tomorrow morning would be my turn to race. 

Trail Race Morning Routine: Calm, Gratitude, and Excitement Before the 25K

My race started at 9 a.m.—not too early, not too late. I woke up around six, took a deep breath, and smiled at the thought that if I had stayed in the 55K, I’d already be out there running in the dark. Instead, I was sipping coffee in a cozy hotel room, calm and content, looking forward to a fun day on the trails.

At the start line, I ran into a friend, and we shared a few laughs to shake off the nerves. When the countdown began, I felt ready—not just physically, but mentally.

The first few kilometers flowed easily. My legs felt strong, my breathing steady, and my heart full. Around kilometer 11, I thought to myself, this was absolutely the right decision.

But that feeling stayed with me for the rest of the race too.

Everywhere I looked, the views were breathtaking—rolling hills, autumn colors, and that golden sunlight filtering through the trees. I felt so grateful to be out there, in that moment, doing something I love. I kept reminding myself, this is your last race of the season—take it all in.

I thought about how far I’d come over the years, from someone who once doubted if she belonged in this sport, to now, running confidently and joyfully through the trails. This race wasn’t about pace or distance. It was about celebrating progress. 

Trail Running for Beginners: The Joy of Slower, Scenic Kilometers

Trail races have their own rhythm and charm. The aid stations were few but memorable—one even had sandwiches, chips, and fruit. There’s something beautifully simple about standing in the middle of the woods, refueling with a handful of salty chips, and smiling at the volunteers who cheer you on.

The course itself was runnable and flowing, and for a brief moment I thought, maybe I could’ve done the 55K after all. But then I reminded myself that I didn’t come here to prove anything. I came to enjoy every kilometer, and I was doing exactly that. 

How I Conquered the Final Climb: Mental Strength in Trail Running

Near the end came a steep climb—one that required ropes and chains to help pull yourself up. Some runners stopped halfway to catch their breath, and I could feel the burn in my own legs. But I kept moving, steady and strong, one step at a time.

By that point, my legs were starting to feel the miles, especially on the descents, but I still felt good—tired but in control. I passed a few runners who were cramping and offered words of encouragement. Those little moments of connection reminded me how special this community is.

And then, I heard it—the cheers at the finish line. 

The Best Finish Line: Joy, Family, and Gratitude

As I came through the final stretch, I spotted my girls and Sébastien waiting, waving, and cheering with huge smiles. My heart swelled. I ran that last part with everything I had left, crossed the line, and felt a rush of emotion—pride, joy, gratitude.

It was everything I had hoped this race would be. 

Running Motivation: Choosing Fun Over Pressure

When I think back on this race, one word comes to mind: fun.

That’s what I wanted, and that’s what I got.

It was the perfect way to close my running season, not with struggle or exhaustion, but with happiness and gratitude. I could have forced myself through the 55K, but I wouldn’t have crossed that finish line smiling. And that, to me, is what running is truly about. 

What’s Next in My Running Journey: Road vs. Trail Running Goals

Now that my season is over, I’ve been reflecting on what’s next.

Running has become more than just a sport for me—it’s a way to grow, to test myself, and to find peace in the process.

Lately, I’ve been torn between two paths: the freedom of trail running and the challenge of road marathons. I love the nature and calm of trails, but I’ll admit, the technical terrain sometimes pushes me out of my comfort zone. The road, on the other hand, is smoother and faster, but not as quiet or scenic.

Maybe next year will be a balance of both. Maybe I’ll train for another road marathon and still sneak in a few trail adventures for the soul. 

If you’re in a season of reflection too, take this as a reminder: goals can evolve, and so can we. There’s no “right” path in running—only the one that keeps you curious, motivated, and proud of the person you’re becoming along the way. 

Whatever the plan ends up being, one thing is certain: I’ll keep choosing joy over pressure, progress over perfection, and I’ll always finish with a smile.