The University Diploma in Trail-running from the University of La Réunion is a unique training course in the region which aims to create a common culture around a physical and sporting activity that is strongly represented on the island.
The lessons provided over a period of around one hundred hours, supplemented by monitoring on an online platform, will respect important characteristics and values:
Holistic:
The approach to trail running is intended to be global since all aspects of the activity interact with each other. Thus, the physiological or biomechanical aspects will be linked to social, cultural or psychological aspects. We believe that support for the trail runner should be considered in all its dimensions for a fulfilling and sustainable practice!
Accessible:
The course content, while very specific and up to date with knowledge on trail running, will remain accessible to the greatest number and usable by all those interested in this activity.
Scientist :
The teachers are experts in their field and you will benefit from the latest thinking, knowledge and tools on trail running from researchers, doctors, coaches and other physical trainers.
Convenient :
The idea is not to make you scientists but to develop an ability to apply the knowledge seen in class. Thus, a large part of the training will emphasize the practical use of the content seen in theory.
Interactive:
We could also have put convivial insofar as the teachings are not intended to be solely top-down but rather in interaction with the different participants in this DU who have their ideas, their experiences to share. This is the whole richness of this type of training where everyone can enrich the theoretical or practical debate.

• Acquire a culture of trail activity and its organization
• Know the basics of training and planning
• Being able to analyze the activity, a race and a practitioner
• Regulate the practice and its practice by ensuring its physical, mental, emotional and social health

Approach the technical-tactic aspects of an activity that is often self-managed

Train coaches, trainers or other Trail supervisors on a scientific basis

Building a common culture around an activity that is very present on the island

Ensure safe practice at events and in free practice, particularly in a mountain environment

Training accessible to people with disabilities

• Approaching culture and understanding the organizational framework of the discipline
• Use trail runner and competition assessment tools to set specific goals and plan training sequences
• Understanding the determinants of trail-running performance and optimizing them according to the characteristics and objectives of the practitioners
• Implement and respect preventive and prophylactic measures with regard to the health of the trail runner (fatigue management, musculoskeletal system, psychological health, nutrition)
• Regulate training and advise on practices in extreme environments

UE1 Outlines of an activity and organization of the practice
UE2 Analysis of trail-running activity
UE3 Training and physical preparation in Trail Running
UE4 Psychological resources for Trail Runners
UE5 Regulate your practice and health recommendations
UE6 Adaptations of the organism in extreme environments

Expected opening of training: November

Provisional training schedule:

Duration of training: 79 hours from November to April N+1

Estimated times:

Period n°1 (Face-to-face): from November 18 to 27
Period n°2 (Face-to-face): from April 7 to 16
Conferences (Remote and/or In-person): from January to April (in the evening)

Assessment methods:
50% file and 50% oral

Not concerned

Places of practice in the mountains requiring a medical certificate but also the vehicle registration document and insurance.

Required level of qualification: Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Diploma or title accepted as equivalent required: Any level 4 diploma
VAPP (Validation of professional and personal skills): Demonstrating experience in leading or supervising running and/or trail running can allow admission to training.
Expected training and/or professional experience: Candidates must demonstrate an interest in trail-running through their practice
personal, professional or even a project for which the training will provide an undeniable contribution of skills

Enthusiasts, practitioners, doctors, physiotherapists, coaches, trainers, mountain guides and STAPS students

Capacity: 25

Cost of training:

• Individual paying: €1500
• Employer agreement: €1500

Not concerned

Success rate : 100% (2023-2024)

Not concerned

Professional integration rate: data not available