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There is a lot of time to think during ultramarathons. And that place can get dark when we’re sore, exhausted or simply not having the day we envisioned. For me, I realized the best way to keep the doubts from creeping in was to think about the things most important in my life off the trails, rather than stressing too much about what was happening on them.
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I’m finally standing at the top of Robinson Flat—an aid station around mile 30 of the Western States 100—after flying down dirt roads, hopping a shuttle, hoisting coolers over my shoulders and trudging up a short hill. Now, it’s time to wait for my Golden Ticket-winning runner to show up and spring into action as fast as humanly possible.
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Training for ultras can be a serious business. That does not mean that you can’t deviate from the plan every now and again. Adventure can fuel your goals, physically and emotionally. So, when these opportunities arise, regardless of if they are meticulous or haphazardly planned, take advantage of them.
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Don’t miss the opportunities that fall brings. Being free from a formal training structure can be very liberating and should be unique to each athlete’s needs. Address areas that need attention, take the opportunity to connect with nature in ways that will be novel and revitalizing. Appreciate what your body has allowed you to do during the racing season but take the break you need.
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There is a wealth of information on ultrarunning nutrition, what to eat in training and how to consume calories during your race. But not a lot is mentioned about how to practice eating in a way that simulates a race environment and introduces your body to the stresses you’ll be experiencing. Here are a few ways to practice nutrition during training to better prep your gut for race day.
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As we start to ramp up to race season, most trail and ultrarunners are increasing their training volume. Warm weather and long days beg for more time on the trails. This increased training load, in turn, can pose an increased risk of injury. Here are some helpful hints to stay injury-free for those who are new to the sport of trail and ultrarunning.
