Running is a great way to stay fit and enjoy nature. If you live in San Antonio, Texas, running trails around the city is a great option. There are several parks where you can run, such as Mission Reach Park, Alamo Riverwalk Trail, and the Southtown Greenbelt.
But there is so much more to the sport and hobby of running. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned runner, it is never too late to pick up some tips and tricks or learn something new about running. And we know how difficult it can be to find this information out.
But, no more! Today we are here with all the answers you need. Follow our guide to find out the ins and outs of all things San Antonio and where to run.
Quality Of Running Areas
San Antonio has over 100 miles of paved trails, which makes it ideal for runners.
If a runner tends to run a couple of miles every day with repeating circuits and routes, these paved trails are the perfect amount of distances for you to run. The city also offers plenty of opportunities for trail runs.
Trail running is doing this exercise where there are lots of different gradients and surfaces. Because of these different features, trail running combines normal running with a mixture of hiking and wild walking.
It’s always best to stay where you’re familiar or always take a map of some form.
In addition, there are several running events held throughout the year. These dedicated running events are a great place to meet new people and find potential running buddies, should that be something you’re looking for.
These events are also a great way to find out new routes by asking other runners! Some of these events include marathons, 5k runs, half marathons, and 10k runs, so there’s something for everyone.
San Antonio River
San Antonio River is a great area to run for those who are wishing for the fresh air you don’t get anywhere else, except for by fresh bodies of water. The San Antonio RiverWalk is around 15 miles long, with a third of that figure extending through downtown San Antonio.
There are restrooms along the water as well, which can be great for those who may need some cooling down or a trip to do their business.
Also known as the Paseo del Río in Spanish, the San Antonio River is easily accessible by most people and will give you a great route option when planning your next run.
Because of the wonderful views and the sound of the river, you’ll be right at home here. There are also water fountains for those who particularly feel the Texas heat in the hotter months.
Because of the River Walk’s location, you can also expect to have a good run through the heart of downtown San Antonio and even stop for a drink at a local coffee shop for some refreshment.
Brackenridge Park
Alternatively, you can go for a good run through Brackenridge Park, which is home to a stretch of the San Antonio River, if you fancy a change of scenery in the middle of your run.
With amazing spectacles like the Japanese Tea Garden and the San Antonio Zoo, you’re bound to have a variety of different views on your travels.
Because of how close this historic environment is to the San Antonio River Run, you can easily do around 3 miles inside the park, before joining onto the previously mentioned river trail.
On top of this, the Mahncke Park neighborhood is just East of this location and is also more than good enough for anyone looking for a good running spot.
The Benefits Of Running
There are many benefits to running, such as improving your cardiovascular health and making sure that you’re feeling at your best. On top of this, running is also great for your mental health.
Running whilst looking at the San Antonio River and other local landmarks adds to the clearing of your mind and your running experience.
On top of this, ranging your runs between San Antonio River, Brackenridge Park, and the National Park is a great way for you to improve your muscle strength.
Because of the ranging trails, gradients, and running surfaces, you can expect to build your muscle strength very efficiently. Combined with the trails throughout the Downtown area and the sidewalks, your body will have a variety of different exercises to enjoy.
What Should I Do After Running?
What to do after a run is a question we are often asked. So let’s look at the answer!
After running, you need to make sure that you shift the lactic acid around your muscles and ensure that you have a warm down. This can be done in several ways, from some slow stretches to having a walk around the block to keep the blood flowing throughout your body.
If you don’t, then you run the risk of pulling a muscle or causing tension in your body.
On top of this, you should make sure that your hydration levels are as high as they can be. By taking a bottle of water with you on the run, you give yourself the option of having a drink when you get home.
As well as this, you can also pour the water over your head to cool yourself down. Texas can get incredibly hot, as we all know!
You should have a shower as well. We sweat a lot when burning calories and by showering you make sure that all of the sweat and other residues are washed away, leaving you feeling fresh.
After many sports and exercises, a lot of people tend to have a cold bath or a cold shower to help stimulate their muscles.
Having a cold bath relaxes your muscles and ensures that any tension you may have built up over your run disappears. Microtraumas will often be a result of a long run, by having small tears in your muscles. Having a cold dunk will make sure that any soreness is massively subdued.
Final Thoughts
San Antonio is as good a place as any to have a good run. Because of the mix of different sceneries and the number of amenities such as water fountains and restrooms, you have everything you could need whilst striding across the city.
With a range of different surface types and places to run, you have so many different options at your disposal. Whether you like to run in crowds for events, or just fancy a bit of de-stressing after work, the San Antonio area is an incredible place to ply your trade.
