Jogging on the right surface

Running is a popular sport. According to the Federal Office of Sport, almost one in four people in Switzerland jogs. The majority of them jog for their health or to stay fit. Others are specifically preparing for a competition.

The running surface is particularly important for competitive runners. They have to train enough kilometers on the "competition surface". For a fun run, this is usually asphalt.

However, runners without competitive ambitions should also consider the surface. The health factor is the main focus here. Depending on the running surface, the risk of injury and the strain on the body increase. To help you choose the right surface, the different running surfaces and their characteristics are listed below.

Training on asphalt

Asphalt is suitable for both beginners and professionals due to its hard surface and even nature. Beginners do not have to exert much force to make progress. Professionals appreciate the surface because they can run at high speeds with little risk of injury. Good cushioning shoes are a prerequisite for training on the hard surface. Overloading can lead to joint and back pain. Beginners should therefore start training carefully.

Gravel paths

Probably the surface on which most runners naturally run most often - in forests, between fields, along rivers or in parks. In principle, the same muscles are used as on asphalt. However, the strain is a little less monotonous. And the small stones have a cushioning effect because the shoe slips a little with every step. For gravel paths, comfortable running shoes with good heel support and a well-profiled sole are suitable.

Finn track and sandy beach

The surface from the far north consists of wood chips, wood shavings or sawdust. It is very soft. It is therefore advisable to wear shoes with little cushioning or even to walk barefoot. Due to the uneven, deep ground, the finned track is not suitable for runners who have unstable ankles, tired ligaments or tired tendons. As a sandy beach is similar to a finned track (soft, unstable ground), the same recommendations apply.

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Forest trails (natural trails)

Many runners enjoy running in nature on forest trails. Unfortunately, these paths are uneven and full of tripping hazards. Roots and large stones repeatedly cause injuries to ankles (sprains/teared ligaments). Natural paths are therefore more suitable for advanced runners. When wearing shoes, you should make sure that the soles are well cushioned and that the sides of the foot are well supported by the shoe.

Synthetic track (tartan track)

Running laps on an artificial track in an athletics stadium cannot be compared with the natural experience of running on forest paths, but the tartan track is very suitable for speed runs and interval training. Because the elastic ground provides some of the cushioning, you should wear lightweight shoes with little cushioning. If you have problems with your Achilles tendons, you should switch to asphalt.

SWICA supports running events

SWICA focuses on people and their health. For this reason, we support various popular sporting events with our sponsorship. Once again this year, these include numerous running events throughout Switzerland. We are delighted to be a sponsor at the following events in a wide variety of disciplines. Click here for the sponsorships.