1. Introduction
muscle mass, neuromuscular or gait
Running on less predictable terrain has the potential to increase the stimulation of the neuromuscular system and can boost aerobic performance. Hence, the purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of trail versus road running on neuromuscular and endurance performance parameters in running novices. Twenty sedentary participants were randomly assigned to either a trail (TRAIL; n = 10) or road running (ROAD; n = 10) group. A supervised and progressive, moderate intensity, and work-load-matched 8 wk endurance running program on TRAIL or ROAD was prescribed (i.e., randomized). Static balance (BESS test), dynamic balance (Y-balance test), gait analysis (RehaGait test, with regard to stride time single task, stride length dual task, velocity single task), agility performance (Regular physical activity, such as running, enhances cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular performance and is associated with a delay in all causes of mortality and morbidity [At approximately 30 years of age, muscle mass and muscle strength begin to decrease gradually by 10–15% each decade [To refute the natural decline in neuromuscular properties with aging and augment spontaneous balance and maintenance of strength, our main study objective was to determine the effectiveness of exercising on uneven surfaces (i.e., dirt trails) vs. familiar (or predictably even road) surfaces in a younger adult population on the prior mentioned variables (e.g., neuromuscular or gait training, balance, strength). For instance, running has been shown to improve or amplify several task-specific, metabolic, and neuromuscular factors [In the present project, we hypothesized trail running would lead to more pronounced improvements in neuromuscular and endurance performance than road running. These assumptions are based on the different characteristics of surface type and gradients between the two conditions. Trail running tends to invoke higher challenges for the neuromuscular system, especially regarding involved muscle coordination, proprioception, and activation [