When you are running on trails or off the beaten path, you increase the awareness of your surroundings. There are always holes, puddles, roots, bushes and other natural obstacles that may lay on your running path. By doing this you are not only more conscious of where and how you are stepping, but you are also increasing proprioception. Proprioception is the sense of the relative position of neighboring parts of the body and the strength of effort being employed in movement. Basically it is being more mindful of your body parts and their movement. This helps with preventing injuries and can even help improve a runner’s gait (manner of walking). A proper gait while running or walking is crucial for preventing several runner injuries.