Follow these tips and start progressing today!
Training
Adapting to the terrain is essential. Road running and trail running are two different things, something your joints will definitely notice. Besides doing long trainings, so that your legs get used to the mileage, it's important to do some "ramp training" and prepare your leg muscles for the long, steep slopes that await you on the trails.
Nutrition
Take in carbohydrates as your main energy source, most importantly before and after training. Keep in mind that it's not just about what you eat on the day of the contest, but about what you eat during your preparation. Pay attention to your food intake on the preceding days, it can make the difference between success and failure.
Supplementation
Take mineral salts to replenish those lost through sweating, and fast-acting carbohydrates to make sure you don't run out of energy while running. Caffeine will give you an extra stimulus for short-term energy bursts, and for those last few miles of your run. If you want to develop more muscle mass and recover better, go with a protein supplement. Because of its strong anti-inflammatory effects, Omega-3 can be of great value during the recovery period.