David Jou is a physical therapist, co-founder, and brand director at Motiv NY. He specializes in manual medicine, endurance athletics, and outdoor programming. Living in New York, he shares his experience of running in the big city and his efforts to bring variety to his runs.
What is gravel running to you?
As an urban dweller who trains primarily on the road and an ultrarunner who prefers the technicality of upstate terrain, gravel running provides the versatility I’m looking for. It's engaging and an effective way to add variety and cross-training into my routine, not to mention how much it benefits my joints! Unlike trail or road running, gravel running is soft, natural, inviting, safe, and even restorative. Words like fast, hard, long, and steep don’t quite capture the essence of gravel running, which is why I think it draws runners in. Also, running can often evoke a competitive spirit, but on gravel, this becomes less of a motivator. The mindset shifts from competition to discovery, exploration, adventure, and fun.
Gravel running is characterized by its adventurous and exploratory attitude, taking place on varied, natural, and often unpredictable terrains. It demands adaptability and self-sufficiency from runners. In contrast, road running is associated with performance, consistency, and is considerably more accessible.
In NYC, you’d be surprised by the dirt and bridle path systems available in our parks. When I finally discovered them a few years ago, I found other runners also looking to mix it up. In contrast to what road offers, running on gravel allows runners to dabble and experience unique and interesting surfaces, but doesn’t force them to commit to a sport like trail running. It's a natural progression from road but not a leap to trail.
What is the gravel community like?
Gravel running communities are rooted in adventure, exploration, and camaraderie. They prefer the unpredictability of natural terrain and value the experience over speed or competition. Gravel runners are prepared for anything, equipped with the right gear and fuel to handle whatever the day throws at them. It's a tight-knit, supportive group that values fellowship and accountability. They're adaptable and resilient, ready to tackle any conditions with a positive, adventurous spirit.
Community fosters social connections, the sharing of knowledge, and provides motivation. For the sport of gravel running, it offers a way to organize meet-ups, allowing runners to train and race together while exploring the outdoors. It turns what can be an isolating sport into one that is more social, accessible, and enjoyable.
