Running on soft trails, such as dirt, grass, or pine needles, is gentler on the body than pounding pavement. These surfaces reduce impact on your knees, hips, and ankles, making trail running easier on the joints over time as compared to sidewalks or roads. The natural cushioning allows you to enjoy running with a reduced risk of repetitive strain injuries common on hard surfaces. Consider trekking poles to help lessen the impact on the descents.