Run a Trail Ultramarathon!

Photo Glenn Tachiyama

What is an Ultramarathon and why would anyone be crazy enough to run one?

An ultramarathon is any race distance longer than a marathon. Popular distances are the 50K(31 miles), 50 miles, 100K (64 miles), and 100miles. These races can be on pavement, asphalt paths, gravel roads and single track trails. They can be in an urban setting, flat terrain and in the mountains. They can be a many laps around a small loop, one giant loop, multiple size loops, out and back, and point to point. For the sake of this discussion, we will stick to the most fun, trail races on single track in the mountains. So why would anyone want to do one? Here are 5 great reasons to run a trail ultra:

1. Running on trails is easier on your body, there is less pounding, the terrain varies your pace so you don't get bored, and you aren't sucking car fumes.
2. Running an ultra is not about pace and speed, it's about stretching your limits and enjoying the adventure.
3. You get to eat a lot while you run and race.
4. The views and the outdoor experience can be incredible.
5. You get to dumbfound you friends when they ask you what you did over the weekend!

How do I start this Ultra Crazy thing?

Become familiar with the 10 essentials of trail running and testing your gear and fueling. When you are around other trail runners, don't be afraid to ask questions. Trail runners are the nicest group of people you'll run into. If you want to mix it up with other runners, try some short trail races 10K to 25K. If you can run a 25K trail race or a road marathon, you are ready for a 50K ultramarathon!

Training for your first Ultramarathon

Running your first Ultramarathon

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