But, by the end of my first Coastal Ascent on Sunday, I was thinking, 'Why wouldn't you?'

I was one of nearly 800 runners who took part in either the 25-kilometre, 11km or the new 5km event through bushland, over sand, along single track and up and down stairs, all while enjoying spectacular views of Newcastle. There was also a 1.6km Kids Beach Bolt.

The courses provided a challenge for all runners starting on Dixon Park beach with a stretch of 400 metres of sand before heading over the headland to another stretch of sand. Runners then followed the coastline - weaving in and out of the bushland.

I've spent a fair bit of time running in Glenrock State Conservation Area now since, like many others, I caught the trail running bug,

But yesterday I discovered a number of new trails in there.

North Lambton's Luke Babic broke the 25km course record in one hour, 45 minutes and 33 seconds and Charlestown's Ingrid Cleland was the female winner in 2:11.50.

"This is my favourite trail event ever, the course is just brilliant and I can't wait to take part again next year," Ingrid said after backing up last year's win with another.

I was a long way off their pace but the beauty of events like these is no matter what level you are at it can still be really enjoyable. Being able to combine beaches and bush really showcased what Newcastle and Lake Macquarie have to offer. It's pretty easy to take for granted what we have right on our doorsteps.

Now that I've done a handful of trail running events, and although still a novice, I am enjoying them more each time. With each one I feel like you become better at knowing what works for you in terms of nutrition and what will help you through your next one.

Overall, it was a pretty great way to start the day, whether you're doing an event or just heading out with some friends.

Race director and Newcastle running legend Vlad Shatrov, who is also director of the event's official training partner Runlab, said it was "great to see trail running continuing to grow" with a number of people new to it participating in the 5km.

It was not the only event held in our region over the weekend.

The Maximum Adventure Race Series was staged out of Cams Wharf and showed off Lake Macquarie to many out-of-area participants who entered along with a local contingent. Designed for teams of two, the the adventure race combined the three core disciplines of mountain biking, trail running and kyaking.

The good news, we have plenty more events coming up, all catering for beginners to the more advanced.

They include the Sparke Helmore Newcastle City Triathlon this weekend, Loop The Lake cycling event on March 8, Mine Super NewRun (April 5), Port to Port mountain bike stage race (May 21-24), Maitland River Run (June 7) and the Winery Running Festival featuring the Moon Marathon (July 18-19).

Sparke Helmore Newcastle City Triathlon, Newcastle Foreshore, February 23: For the novice to the experienced competitor, there are three courses of varying distances to choose from.

Loop the Lake, Lake Macquarie, March 8: The main cycle ride is around 88 kilometres and from Speers Point to Lake Munmorah and back, including National Parks and some spectacular water views. There is also a team ride, short ride and family charity ride.

NewRun, Newcastle Foreshore, April 5: Distances on offer include 5km, the Herald Hill2Harbour 10km, a hilly 21.1km and a flat 42.km as well as a kids' 2km.

Adding sand running or stair climbing to a strength session can make for a more challenging workout. It could look like:

Session 1: 10 squats with shoulder press, 50-metre sand run/walk, 10 push-ups, 50m sand run/walk, 20 stationary lunges or plyo lunges, 50m sand run/walk, 10 bent-over row, 50m sand run/walk, 30 seconds hover or opposing arm and leg extension. Rest then Repeat 1-2 times.

Session 2: The same as session 1 but replace sand run/walk with a set of stairs.

Session 3: Combine both by alternating sand runs with sets of stairs.

Add a warm-up and cool-down.

Send your health and fitness news to r.valentine@newcastleherald.com.au.

Renee Valentine is a writer, qualified personal trainer and mother of three.