MEC becomes a training partner for Canadian trail runners this September

This September, Canadian-owned Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) is renewing its commitment to Canada’s running community with the launch of Train for the Trails, a new national program that builds on more than three decades of MEC race sponsorships and community running. The initiative marks the beginning of a broader, long-term investment in supporting runners across the country.

Launching Sept. 8, Train for the Trails is a four-week program designed to help trail runners and the trail-running curious build confidence and new skills.

This month-long program includes free in-store clinics, guided community runs at select stores and an expert-developed training guide focusing on a new training pillar every week to help build foundational skills. Developed in partnership with Salomon, a brand rooted in mountain sports heritage and at the intersection of running, culture and community, the initiative will support runners of all levels in building their trail running ambitions through community, expertise and a full range of running gear built for wherever the run takes you.

Train for the Trails also reconnects MEC with an important part of its past.

“MEC’s iconic race series brought runners together across Canada, and Train for the Trails is the beginning of a renewed commitment to the running community,” says Michele Guimond, vice-president of Marketing at MEC.

“As a Canadian-owned company, we’re proud to support people getting out on their local trails, especially at a time when Canadians are looking to support Canadian businesses. Our fall running assortment is the strongest it’s ever been, bringing together great Canadian brands and best-in-class global names,” Guimond adds. “But MEC has always been about more than gear. Train for the Trails is about connecting runners with community, trusted staff expertise and support for runners wherever they are in their journey. This is just the start of how we plan to show up for runners.”

The program also draws on the expertise of some top Canadian talent. MEC worked with British Columbia-based ultra runner, race director and running coach Jeremy Rolle and endurance dietitian, Team Canada runner and Salomon ambassador Carol-Ann Rolle to develop a digital running guide covering gear choices, nutrition, hydration and weekly training for different goals.

Their approach focuses on what helps any runner improve: building consistency, developing practical trail skills and creating a plan that works for your goals and your life. Whether it’s preparing for a first trail race, trying a longer distance or simply looking to feel better on regular runs.

“A big part of coaching is helping people realize that you don’t need to be an elite athlete to train with purpose or benefit from good advice,” says Jeremy Rolle. “It’s great to see MEC making a bigger commitment to running and investing in the people and communities that make the sport what it is. This program gives runners of all levels access to practical coaching to help them feel prepared and confident for whatever they want to take on next.”

The guide will provide structured training support, helping participants work toward their individual goals and follow the program on their own schedule. Participating stores will host in-person clinics that include a 20-minute educational session followed by a guided five- to eight-kilometre run led by local running groups with support from MEC staff. Select locations will also feature shoe demonstrations and brand experiences from Salomon, plus weekly prizes and giveaways. Space is limited so advance registration is required.

The series is part of MEC’s broader commitment to helping people build a lifelong relationship with the outdoors, with the expertise and gear to get outside in every season. MEC has expanded its running assortment for fall and winter, with footwear, apparel, hydration and accessories from leading Canadian and global running brands, backed by advice from staff who understand what it means to run on Canadian trails in changing conditions.

This story was provided by Mountain Equipment Company for commercial purposes.