7 articles on the ultra craze, DNFs, glycogen depletion, injury prevention and strength and conditioning

Last updated: 24-Aug-18

By Elsa Trujillo

From May to September, the ultra running calendar is chock-a-block with local and international races big and small. It’s a big season for training, competing, finishing and winning.

Our selection of articles this week focuses on training-related articles that cover research, injury-prevention, mind-set and nutrition. There’s also a piece on the unbelievable rise in the popularity of ultra running and our RunUltra piece on strength and conditioning. Enjoy.

Rise of the ultra marathon
If you’re an ultra marathon runner you know this: you are spoilt for choice. Great ultras are popping up like mushrooms in all corners of the globe and in all forms and sizes. Here’s The Guardian’s take on the latest running phenomenon.

Do men DNF more than women?
Some figures seem to suggest this. Do cold, wet and windy conditions favour women runners? Watch Ross Tucker in this video mulling about thermoregulation and shivering when running in bad weather.

Glycogen-depleted runs
Are you fat adapted? If you are, you’re probably on a low carb high fat diet. In this article, Pam Smith explores another option: glycogen-depleted runs to improve performance. 

Injury prevention
In this article, Jason Fitzgerald collects advice from top runners on how to avoid injury and ignore bad online advice.

Bryon Powell comprehensively explores the definition of injury and the best road to recovery. Read it here.

Find the mental flow
Read these recommendations to find your mental flow when running and achieve your best performance. Train your brain to enter the flow.

Strength and conditioning
The foundation of every sport, strength and conditioning is often overlooked. In this article, RunUltra’s own James Eacott explains why you should do it and selects a series of exercises that will work for your ultra running training.

"Why don't you share your own favourite running articles with RunUltra?"

Like what you read?

Click here to sign up for more

Related news

Latest news

SEARCH

Filters

Distance
Distance - slider
0KM500KM
Entry Fee
Entry Fee - slider
010000

DATE SEARCh

Date Range

Global - Virtual

Elevation

A virtual race which can be run at any time shown on the dates shown, on any type of terrain in any country.

Suitable for

For runners from beginners to experienced as you choose your own course and challenge based on the guidelines and options set by the virtual race organiser.

Endurance - Multi-activity

Elevation

An ultra distance race including at least two of the following activities such as running, swimming, cycling, kayaking, skiing and climbing. It may also include different climatic conditions (eg ice, snow, humidity, cold water, mud or heat).

Suitable for

Experienced multi-skilled athletes who have trained for the different activities included in this event. Admission to these races may be subject to receipt of a recent medical examination certificate. Check with the race organiser regarding entry requirements and any specialist equipment required such as a wetsuit, skis or a mountain bike.

Brutal

Elevation

Increase of up to 2000 metres with very challenging climatic conditions (e.g. ice, snow, humidity, heat or at high altitude)

Suitable for

Very experienced long distance ultra runners (min 3 years’ experience) or are doing regular long distance running (>50 miles) with elevation and conditions shown (where possible). Admission to these races is often subject to receipt of a recent medical examination certificate. Purchase of specialist kit is often recommended for these races.

Expert

Elevation

Increase of up to 2000 metres with some challenging climatic conditions (e.g. ice, snow, humidity or heat)

Suitable for

Experienced runners who have completed at least 4 ultras in last 12 months, or are doing regular long distance running (>50 miles) with elevation and conditions shown (where possible). Admission to these races may be subject to receipt of a recent medical examination certificate. Check with the race organiser regarding entry requirements.

Advanced

Elevation

Increase of up to 1500 metres

Suitable for

Runners who have completed several ultra distances or similar events, or are doing long distance running regularly, with elevation shown.

Intermediate

Elevation

Increase of up to 1000 metres

Suitable for

Runners who have completed at least one ultra in last 6 months or are doing long distance running (>26 miles) regularly, with elevation shown.

Beginner

Elevation

Very little change < 500 metres

Suitable for

First ultra event. Runners completing a marathon or doing regular long distance running (>26 miles) in the last 6 months.