TRAINING
“Training is what we do to make it hurt less.”
Training for an ultramarathon takes dedication and hard work, but it doesn’t need to be an earth shattering endeavor. We understand that it can be difficult to balance training with life’s other obligations. We celebrate the notion that you can train for ultras on relatively low mileage (as compared to some marathon training plans), which then allows you a better chance at balancing life. Below are a few training plans which we hope will guide you towards successfully completing your ultra goal.
Use of these training plans is at your own risk. We make no guarantees of success, that rests solely upon your shoulders.
Quick Tips:
• 0 Miles = ZERO MILES. Rest days are a vital part of the process. They allow your body the opportunity to heal and regenerate.
• Mid-week runs should be where you focus on going through the motions. Run on the roads near home, pick-up the pace, enjoy the art of running.
• Weekend Back-to-Back long runs are VITAL. This is where you should be training on trails that most closely resemble the course you’ll be taking on. It’s also when you should be testing gear, trying new foods and drinks, and continuously doing a “systems check” to determine what works and what doesn’t. Do this work in training, NOT ON RACE DAY.
• Yes, cross training is important. It wouldn’t hurt to be in the gym at least 1-2 days a week to work on strengthening your core.
• Build-up weeks and Down weeks should be low stress. Don’t push it on these weeks as they are part of active recovery.
OTHER RESOURCES
We also highly recommend the following resources to help guide you on your ultra journey.
www.ultrunr.com
Run100s.com
Fellrnr.com Training Plans Database
Hal Koerner’s Field Guide to Ultrarunning (Book)
The Ultra Marathon Bible (Book)
Fixing Your Feet