Ultramarathons, as the name suggests, aren’t as scary as they seem to be. Yes, with the right guidance and knowledge you will complete it without a hassle. As a marathoner, there is a chance you have already competed in the half marathon. Now that you are aiming to shoot for an ultramarathon race. There is a lot you need to know and prepare for. Quite a bit because it is not every single day that we train for a marathon!
Without any further ado, let us take a look at everything you need to know about ultramarathons.
#1. Training Plan
The first and the foremost to accomplishing an ultramarathon is to take part in the training plan. Yes, there are hundreds of free training plans online that you can use. Or if you have extra cash to spare, you may get yourself enrolled in a professional coach. In any way, getting a training plan is a solid way to get started with the preparation.
#2. Be Mindful
While preparing for an ultramarathon, you need to be mindful of what’s coming on your own. Ultramarathons are no piece of cake. It is going to put your body and mind under a lot of stress. Remember, the first step is the hardest. And so, training is usually the difficult part. Once you are ready to run over 32 miles, the easy part begins.
#3. Be Prepared
The more you know, the more you are prepared. And so, know that ultramarathons are designed differently than half marathons or running races. Back to back long runs are kept. A long run one day and the second long run the next day. Your feet may swell or feel heavy. By the end of the day, you may even have dead feet.
#4. Walking
Prepare your body to walk more and more. Practice by walking on roads and hills. Prepare your body to walk uphills and downhills.
#5. Consistency
Apart from physical training to succeed in the ultramarathons, you have to prepare your mind too. Preparing for ultramarathons can be time-consuming. You may have to skip your priorities to focus on the training. You will need to make some serious sacrifices to fulfill the commitment. Remember, preparing for it requires consistency and motivation. All you need to do is be prepared to make sacrifices.
#6. Nutrition
Months before the actual race, your trainers and coaches will ask you to tell them about your diet plans. It is because nutrition is one of the key factors to accomplish in the game. You have to try different whole food groups. It will fuel up your body.
#7. Gear
Pack your ultramarathon gear wisely. One of the biggest mistakes that most runners make is buying a new pair of shoes before the race. Avoid doing that. Wear the same comfortable pair of shoes you have practiced on the big day. Avoid trying anything new to be on the safer side. From your meal plans to gear and clothing. Make sure everything is tried and tested before the day.
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