Downhill running masterclass

After all the hard work we put into getting to the top of a climb, the reward should come in the descent, letting gravity do the work as we flow effortlessly over rocks and roots under perfect control. However all too often we meet runners who dread the downhill knowing that they will feel uncertain and slower than they would like. Whatever your level, let this course free you from the downhill demons.

What to expect from the course

The day will usually take two parts, a morning workshop and an afternoon trail run.

The morning will be spent on trails immediately above Aviemore, taking our time to work on foundation running techniques and building confidence running down an easy slope with the brakes on and off. We will add some key tools for cornering and dealing with loose or slippy terrain. This will be an active but not exhausting session, leaving some life in the legs for a short run on some local trails after lunch to put the new skills into practice.

Training can be arranged at other locations on request.

"I can honestly say I would have walked most of the descents before today’s session and being able to run it instead was just fantastic. Looking forward to practicing on the trails." Linda

Booking

For 2026 we are operating on a bespoke only basis, we do not have dates for open courses. If you would like to arrange a private session, please get in touch. ian@trailrunningscotland.com

Experience and fitness

This day is all about getting stuck in and working on techniques rather than covering big distances, so we can tailor the day to your group. The day will be an active workshop, so a basic level of running fitness will help you to make the most of it. If you can complete a Parkrun without stopping in around 40 minutes you should be fine. If in doubt drop us an email to discuss your fitness.

Kit you will need

The morning session will be in sheltered trails, close to Aviemore, so we don't need to have lots of spare kit weighing us down. Come dressed for an active session, including some standing still, bearing in mind the weather on the day. If you have a waterproof top and some drink and snacks in a small bag too.

In the afternoon we might venture further into the hills, so need to be equipped accordingly. Please have a bag ready with:

Waterproof jacket (with taped or welded seams and a hood)

We recommend:

Montane Spine Waterproof Jacket (for men)
Montane Spine Waterproof Jacket (for women)

Waterproof trousers (with taped or welded seams)

We recommend:

Montane Minimus Waterproof Pants (for men)
Montane Minimus Waterproof Pants (for women)

Running vest

We recommend:

Montane Gecko VP 12+ (unisex)

Spare* synthetic insulated upper layer

*We recommend carrying approximately 300g of synthetically insulated upper layers.

We recommend:
Montane Men's Fireball Lite 360g
Montane Women's Fireball Lite 320g

Hat and gloves suitable for the weather conditions
For cold conditions, we recommend:

Montane Prism Mitt
Montane Via Stretch Beanie

For mild/warm conditions, we recommend:

Montane VIA Trail Gloves

Montane Minimus Stretch Ultra Waterproof Cap (unisex)

Adequate footwear - Fell trail shoes only

We recommend:

Inov8 TRAILFLY G 270 V2
Inov8 Roclite G 275

Food - Some water and snacks for a 2 hour run.

First aid kit

The guides will be carrying emergency first aid supplies but if you can have a small personal kit with blister pack/compeed and any personal medication.

If you have any questions or need advice about any of the equipment please just ask.

Please refer to our guidance on Essential kit for trail running safely.

Accommodation

Aviemore has a wide variety of accommodation options

visitcairngorms.com/accommodation

We recommend Hostelling Scotland hostels in Aviemore or Glenmore where you can get a 10% discount by using the code TRAILRUN

Wigwam accommodation is also available at Badaguish Outdoor Centre at a discount of 15%. Just make a booking through their website and use the code TRS25BADA

We are also happy to recommend the nearby Rowan Tree Hotel