
Are you looking to bring your passion for running to CSU? If the answer is yes, I assure you that you’ll fit in well here. Our running community is strong and tight knit, full of athletes of all skill levels and interests. Whether you plan on spending your time as a casual or competitive runner in Fort Collins, this article will prepare you well.
The location

Fort Collins is optimal for runners of all skill levels thanks to its mild weather, ample sunshine, varied terrains and beautiful landscapes. If you are lucky, you may even run into some wildlife!
Elevation
At an elevation of about 5,000 feet, runners who hail from locations near sea level will be in for a surprise, but I assure you, the gasps for air are only temporary. Take your first few runs at a leisurely and comfortable pace and you will ease into the altitude like a local. If you have heard any horror stories about altitude sickness and think it awaits you in Fort Collins, don’t worry. Fort Collins is well below the elevation of 7,500 feet that altitude sickness typically occurs at.
The terrain
Fort Collins offers many different terrain options such as lush natural areas, large trail systems, and neighborhoods around campus, each with their own unique feel. My favorite natural area to run through is the Cache la Poudre National Heritage Area. Along the Poudre River, you will find shady, well-kept trails that you may even share with a horse! If you’re a serious trail runner and searching for miles upon miles of interweaving-and-dynamic trails, I recommend the Blue Sky Trail and the Horsetooth Rock Trail at Horsetooth Reservoir. For a different scene than a natural area, a run through the sleepy, historic neighborhoods that surround CSU is an optimal addition to a peaceful and productive day.
The community

Campus groups
At CSU, we have running clubs catering to runners from beginner to expert level. Time commitments range from minimal to intensive. If you are looking to pick up and pursue a passion for running, I would recommend that you join the CSU Striders. It is a running club with both novice and elite runners who run together at consistent times of the day, six days a week. If you are looking for inspiration, you’ll get that through this club as well. Some of its members have qualified for both the Boston and New York City Marathons!
The CSU Triathlon Team also is a fantastic place to run alongside driven, fun people. Be prepared to commit to a more-consistent and demanding environment than with the CSU Striders if you opt to join this team.
Local races
Whether or not you decide to join a running club, you can set your own goals, smash them, and sustain your competitive fire by running in local races. A few to choose from include the Colorado Marathon — voted the best marathon in the Rockies — the Horsetooth Half Marathon (did someone say hills?), and CSU’s own Homecoming 5K, which begins and ends on campus.
Your gear

As a runner, your gear and training habits make the biggest difference in whether you stay healthy, have fun, and, ultimately, accomplish your goals in a timely manner.
Shoes
As the miles pile up week after week, shoes will make a big impact in your running experience. Good shoes will save your body from extended fatigue that could lead to injury. Personally, I prefer to run with shoes that have neutral support. My favorite is the Adidas Ultra Boost ST due to its high level of support, comfort, and durability. I have put 900+ miles on three pairs in two years. Typically, you can expect a high-level shoe to last for 400-500 miles. It’s always best to go to a running store to get your gait and arch evaluated to find the best shoe for you.
Tracker
You will also benefit from a watch or app that tracks your miles via GPS. It will help you stay on top of — and maybe even show off — your goals! I wear a Garmin Fenix and use it on every run as well as in my daily life due to its durability and functionality.
Your routine

Proper training habits are important to avoid persistent injury. If followed properly, they can save you from a large amount of unnecessary struggles.
Stretching
Some runners find that they run faster when their muscles are tighter, but, as a rule of thumb, do stretch before a workout. Make sure to stretch your quads, calves, hamstrings, and especially you hip flexors to stay relatively pain-free. These areas can cause you major discomfort and give rise to annoying injury downtime if not taken care of.
Diet
Also make sure to treat your body well by eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep. You will find very quickly that you are not invincible as you begin to run farther and farther. Think about the tortoise and the hare: slow, smart, and steady will eventually lead you to excel as a runner.

Max Griffis is CSU grad who majored in Forestry with a minor in Environmental Affairs. He was a part of the University Honors Program. He spends his days running the streets of Fort Collins with a smile on his face, telling above average jokes, and playing air guitar to Def Leppard songs. His on-campus involvements included student leadership within the CSU Navigators Christian Ministry, and serving as the national representative for the Society of American Foresters in the Rocky Mountains.