We do more than run.

Trail running arguably is at the top of Maslow’s pyramid, in the category of self-actualization.

For women who haven’t had a lot of opportunity to indulge in adventure, especially with friends, it also has very much to do with the next two hierarchical levels of esteem and belonging. We could make jokes about the need for safety, and food and water and clothing during trail running, but those needs are induced by choosing the sport, and last only while we are out running.

Some women don’t trail run not because they lack motivation or bravery, but simply because they don’t have the time and resources to pursue sports. They are busy surviving, recovering, or escaping unsustainable, degrading, unhealthy or even dangerous situations.