Training zones are a tool. Like any tool, they’re only useful if you understand what they’re built on. When you understand the physiology underneath, a lot of the zone arguments that fill coaching forums start to look like noise.
This week’s ultramarathon race results include Marin Ultra Challenge, Pistol Ultra, Land Between the Lakes, and Mesquite Canyon.
Organized by Jon Bullock and Lee Robinson, the event features several fixed-time and distance categories over a weekend of running, and the USATF 100-Mile Championship has served as the marquee race at Jackpot since 2019.
I showed up at the Jackpot Ultra in Henderson, Nevada, feeling hopeful. I used to run 100 miles in 24 hours routinely. But I haven’t run that distance in 10 years. In other words, I’ve slacked off, and the race was going be redemption.
Sometimes running isn’t the answer. Sometimes running isn’t enough. Sometimes, running is even the problem. But I don’t know how to function any other way.
Like many in our community, I spent much of January running in circles. Also, like many in our community, I spent much of February turning the dial way back down, measuring time with TV episodes rather than Strava segments for Burrito League.