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Ultra Running: 6 Things You Need to Know
Embrace the Challenge
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Ultra running has exploded in popularity in recent years. With a 345% increase in participation over the last decade and ultra running races ranging from 50k to seemingly limitless distances, it's clear that pushing the limits is becoming the new normal. Ultra running is no longer reserved for elite athletes; it's now accessible to everyday runners craving their next challenge.
The Appeal of Ultra Running
Whether you're inspired by elite ultra running athletes like Jim Walmsley or Courtney Dauwalter—or you're simply looking for your next big adventure, ultra running is the ultimate test of endurance. With postcard-perfect ultra running race locations and affordable entry fees, there's never been a better time to go long.
So, what are six things you should know when preparing for your first ultra running event?
1. Embrace the Suffering in Ultra Running Training
Ultra running is not just about physical endurance—it's about mental resilience. Unlike shorter distances, the longer you go in ultra running, the more variables come into play, from cramps and GI issues to sleep deprivation and hallucinations. The perfect ultra running race is rare, and there will be tough moments.
Some of my best memories from ultra running races are actually from getting out and training in tough conditions. Run at night, practice back-to-back long runs, and push through discomfort. The more you expose yourself to hardship in ultra running training, the better equipped you'll be to handle race-day challenges When they arise, not IF they arise.
2. Don't Skip the Hike Training for Ultra Running
Most first-time ultra runners underestimate how much time they will spend hiking, especially in mountainous ultra running terrain. All UTMB 100-mile ultra running races feature at least 10,000 metres of ascent and descent as standard. No one runs all of that!
Incorporate regular hiking into your ultra running training. If you don't have access to mountains, simulate elevation with hill repeats, stair climbing, or treadmill incline workouts.Practice efficient hiking techniques, and use trekking poles if they're allowed in your ultra running race.
3. Build Your Low-End Speed for Ultra Running
In an ultra marathon, you'll likely spend a lot of time running at a slower pace, so focus on improving your low-end aerobic capacity for ultra running. If you speak to the majority of ultra runners, they say they want to get faster, and what they mean is their top-end speed. It takes a lot of work to get your top-end sustainable pace from 4.00/km to 3.45/km, and this won't serve you much value in a 12-hour ultra running race vs. working on your lower-end speed and getting your easy running pace from 6.30/km to 6.15/km. This is more likely to eat hours off your ultra running finishing time as you race longer and longer.
4. Dial in Your Ultra Running Nutrition
Depending on the ultra-running race, you could be out on the course for anywhere from six to sixty hours… a true test of endurance! You will need a lot of food to fuel that kind of ultra running effort. Nutrition is one of the most critical (and personal) parts of ultra running.
Practice eating during your long ultra running training sessions. Try different food combinations—gels, bars, real food—and figure out what your body can handle during ultra running. A good rule of thumb is to take in at least 200 calories per hour of moving as a low-end range for ultra running. I like to start at 75g/h as a base level and work up or down based on feeling during ultra running events.
5. Prepare for the Mental Summits and Valleys of Ultra Running
During an ultra running race, you'll feel invincible one minute and hit rock bottom the next. It's normal to experience extreme highs and lows both physically and mentally in ultra running, and the worst part is these feelings often arrive unannounced and at seemingly varied lengths. You can feel amazing for 3 minutes and then rough for9 hours! Why?
When you're in a low during an ultra running event, learn to fragment the race into smaller chunks.Focus on reaching the next aid station or covering the next 5 kilometers or even to the next tree! Keep in mind that the bad times will pass. Use mindfulness techniques like breathing exercises or repeat a mantra to keep your mind calm during ultra running.
6. Enjoy the Ultra Running Journey
Running your first ultra is a monumental achievement in the world of ultra running. The early mornings, long training days, and the ultra running race itself are all part of the adventure. Remember why you signed up for ultra running and take time to appreciate the journey. Smile, stay present, and soak it all in. The finish line is just a small part of the ultra running experience—You are no doubt a stronger, more resilient person!
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - SMASH LIFE - Mental Toughness - Hard Work
ENGINE
Mikkos Triangle testing week.
GYMNASTICS
This week, we're going upside down with handstand holds and handstand push-ups, testing balance, strength, and control. Then, we’ll lock in that overhead power with some strength work.
HYROX
This is a race simulation in which we will take on a full hyrax. It can be done individually or in a pair, and the run distance can be changed.
MOBILITY
The focus is the same, but it's on a different weekend. Unlock those hips so you can sit on the floor next IFTAR. The main focus will be lower flexibility and glute activation.
PURE STRENGTH
In Pure Strength this week, we are kicking off the week with some incline press work, followed by some volume on the press and pull, and finishing off the session with some arms. Wednesday, we are hitting a 20-rep max on the RDL before getting in some single-leg work and some core and pull accessory work.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week in weightlifting, we are working on the spit jerk technique. This is the perfect session for those wanting to increase their confidence overhead. Make sure not to miss out.
Monday Ride
A ride dedicated to group riding skills and some fitness. Coach Rob Foster leads this ride, if you'd like to join email rf@innerfight.com
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Bike DXB
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. This run is currently gearing run fitness towards the incoming half marathons. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Monday
Time: 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: Tempo
PM Session only: This evening we will be holding Tempo pace (7/10 RPE) for 4 mins blocks of work. Each block will have a 1 min recovery. 7x reps.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. This week we will be running 1600m repeats that will gradually build in pace.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
If you didn't run track, today we have some speed work for you today. We will be running broken 400s. Where the first 100m will be hard (9/10 effort) into a 300m float recovery. Aim for 8 - 12 x reps.
Friday
Time: 5:29am & 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will have bridge repeats for everyone. Helping you build some strength in your legs. There will be to start times, to cater for thsoe wanting to run a bit longer.
We are starting the week with some hinge-focused work. Power cleans into hang power cleans building over 6 sets before we continue with our Frong Stance Deadlifts; the workout will be heavy but fast and furious; do not be fooled by the lateral Jump!
Monday:
Strength:
A) Every 90secs x 6 - 1 Power Clean, 1 Hang Power Clean
B) Every 2mins x 5 - Frong Stance Deadlift
Conditioning:
For time
12-10-8-6-4-2 Deadlift
24-20-16-12-8-4 Lateral Jumps Over The Bar
Tuesday:
You have the chance to progress the pendlay rows before we go into some upper accessory work. A gymnastics
focused workout with wall walks and chest to bars are broken up with some assault bike efforts.
Strength:
A) Every 2mins x 4 - 8/8/6/6 Pendlay Rows
B) Every 3mins x 4 3-5 Strict Pull Ups & Zotman Curls
Conditioning:
AMRAP 16
18/15 cal Assault bike
8 c2b
3 wall walks
Wednesday:
Strongman Day, where we have a sandbag squat and
There will be a lunge complex and some hip extensions, followed by a partner workout for time, which will finish with an all-out effort on the ski erg.
Strength:
A) Every 3mins x 5 - 5 Sandbag Squats + 6 Alt Reverse Lunges
B) Every 90secs x 5 - 10 Weighted Hip Extensions
Conditioning:
In Pairs in a 15-minute window
2 rounds
40/30 cal ski
40 TTB
50 wall balls
Max distance ski in the remaining time
Thursday:
On Thursday, we will strict press heavy before hitting an AMRAP set. Then, we will do some interval work with running and dumbbells.
Strength:
A) Every 2 mins x 6 Strict press 3 3 2 2 1 + 90 sec amrap @ 75%
Conditioning:
2 Rounds:
5 min amrap
Pool Run
5 Man makers
rest 2 mins
5 min amrap
2 Laps car park run
20 Double DB hang snatch
rest 2 mins
Friday:
Friday, we finish the week with axel bar squats and Dumbell rows before diving into a team workout.
Ultra running has exploded in popularity in recent years. With a 345% increase in participation over the last decade and ultra running races ranging from 50k to seemingly limitless distances, it's clear that pushing the limits is becoming the new normal. Ultra running is no longer reserved for elite athletes; it's now accessible to everyday runners craving their next challenge.
The Appeal of Ultra Running
Whether you're inspired by elite ultra running athletes like Jim Walmsley or Courtney Dauwalter—or you're simply looking for your next big adventure, ultra running is the ultimate test of endurance. With postcard-perfect ultra running race locations and affordable entry fees, there's never been a better time to go long.
So, what are six things you should know when preparing for your first ultra running event?
1. Embrace the Suffering in Ultra Running Training
Ultra running is not just about physical endurance—it's about mental resilience. Unlike shorter distances, the longer you go in ultra running, the more variables come into play, from cramps and GI issues to sleep deprivation and hallucinations. The perfect ultra running race is rare, and there will be tough moments.
Some of my best memories from ultra running races are actually from getting out and training in tough conditions. Run at night, practice back-to-back long runs, and push through discomfort. The more you expose yourself to hardship in ultra running training, the better equipped you'll be to handle race-day challenges When they arise, not IF they arise.
2. Don't Skip the Hike Training for Ultra Running
Most first-time ultra runners underestimate how much time they will spend hiking, especially in mountainous ultra running terrain. All UTMB 100-mile ultra running races feature at least 10,000 metres of ascent and descent as standard. No one runs all of that!
Incorporate regular hiking into your ultra running training. If you don't have access to mountains, simulate elevation with hill repeats, stair climbing, or treadmill incline workouts.Practice efficient hiking techniques, and use trekking poles if they're allowed in your ultra running race.
3. Build Your Low-End Speed for Ultra Running
In an ultra marathon, you'll likely spend a lot of time running at a slower pace, so focus on improving your low-end aerobic capacity for ultra running. If you speak to the majority of ultra runners, they say they want to get faster, and what they mean is their top-end speed. It takes a lot of work to get your top-end sustainable pace from 4.00/km to 3.45/km, and this won't serve you much value in a 12-hour ultra running race vs. working on your lower-end speed and getting your easy running pace from 6.30/km to 6.15/km. This is more likely to eat hours off your ultra running finishing time as you race longer and longer.
4. Dial in Your Ultra Running Nutrition
Depending on the ultra-running race, you could be out on the course for anywhere from six to sixty hours… a true test of endurance! You will need a lot of food to fuel that kind of ultra running effort. Nutrition is one of the most critical (and personal) parts of ultra running.
Practice eating during your long ultra running training sessions. Try different food combinations—gels, bars, real food—and figure out what your body can handle during ultra running. A good rule of thumb is to take in at least 200 calories per hour of moving as a low-end range for ultra running. I like to start at 75g/h as a base level and work up or down based on feeling during ultra running events.
5. Prepare for the Mental Summits and Valleys of Ultra Running
During an ultra running race, you'll feel invincible one minute and hit rock bottom the next. It's normal to experience extreme highs and lows both physically and mentally in ultra running, and the worst part is these feelings often arrive unannounced and at seemingly varied lengths. You can feel amazing for 3 minutes and then rough for9 hours! Why?
When you're in a low during an ultra running event, learn to fragment the race into smaller chunks.Focus on reaching the next aid station or covering the next 5 kilometers or even to the next tree! Keep in mind that the bad times will pass. Use mindfulness techniques like breathing exercises or repeat a mantra to keep your mind calm during ultra running.
6. Enjoy the Ultra Running Journey
Running your first ultra is a monumental achievement in the world of ultra running. The early mornings, long training days, and the ultra running race itself are all part of the adventure. Remember why you signed up for ultra running and take time to appreciate the journey. Smile, stay present, and soak it all in. The finish line is just a small part of the ultra running experience—You are no doubt a stronger, more resilient person!
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - SMASH LIFE - Mental Toughness - Hard Work
Monday Ride
A ride dedicated to group riding skills and some fitness. Coach Rob Foster leads this ride, if you'd like to join email rf@innerfight.com
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Bike DXB
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. This run is currently gearing run fitness towards the incoming half marathons. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Monday
Time: 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: Tempo
PM Session only: This evening we will be holding Tempo pace (7/10 RPE) for 4 mins blocks of work. Each block will have a 1 min recovery. 7x reps.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. This week we will be running 1600m repeats that will gradually build in pace.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
If you didn't run track, today we have some speed work for you today. We will be running broken 400s. Where the first 100m will be hard (9/10 effort) into a 300m float recovery. Aim for 8 - 12 x reps.
Friday
Time: 5:29am & 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will have bridge repeats for everyone. Helping you build some strength in your legs. There will be to start times, to cater for thsoe wanting to run a bit longer.
We are starting the week with some hinge-focused work. Power cleans into hang power cleans building over 6 sets before we continue with our Frong Stance Deadlifts; the workout will be heavy but fast and furious; do not be fooled by the lateral Jump!
Monday:
Strength:
A) Every 90secs x 6 - 1 Power Clean, 1 Hang Power Clean
B) Every 2mins x 5 - Frong Stance Deadlift
Conditioning:
For time
12-10-8-6-4-2 Deadlift
24-20-16-12-8-4 Lateral Jumps Over The Bar
Tuesday:
You have the chance to progress the pendlay rows before we go into some upper accessory work. A gymnastics
focused workout with wall walks and chest to bars are broken up with some assault bike efforts.
Strength:
A) Every 2mins x 4 - 8/8/6/6 Pendlay Rows
B) Every 3mins x 4 3-5 Strict Pull Ups & Zotman Curls
Conditioning:
AMRAP 16
18/15 cal Assault bike
8 c2b
3 wall walks
Wednesday:
Strongman Day, where we have a sandbag squat and
There will be a lunge complex and some hip extensions, followed by a partner workout for time, which will finish with an all-out effort on the ski erg.
Strength:
A) Every 3mins x 5 - 5 Sandbag Squats + 6 Alt Reverse Lunges
B) Every 90secs x 5 - 10 Weighted Hip Extensions
Conditioning:
In Pairs in a 15-minute window
2 rounds
40/30 cal ski
40 TTB
50 wall balls
Max distance ski in the remaining time
Thursday:
On Thursday, we will strict press heavy before hitting an AMRAP set. Then, we will do some interval work with running and dumbbells.
Strength:
A) Every 2 mins x 6 Strict press 3 3 2 2 1 + 90 sec amrap @ 75%
Conditioning:
2 Rounds:
5 min amrap
Pool Run
5 Man makers
rest 2 mins
5 min amrap
2 Laps car park run
20 Double DB hang snatch
rest 2 mins
Friday:
Friday, we finish the week with axel bar squats and Dumbell rows before diving into a team workout.
ENGINE
Mikkos Triangle testing week.
GYMNASTICS
This week, we're going upside down with handstand holds and handstand push-ups, testing balance, strength, and control. Then, we’ll lock in that overhead power with some strength work.
HYROX
This is a race simulation in which we will take on a full hyrax. It can be done individually or in a pair, and the run distance can be changed.
MOBILITY
The focus is the same, but it's on a different weekend. Unlock those hips so you can sit on the floor next IFTAR. The main focus will be lower flexibility and glute activation.
PURE STRENGTH
In Pure Strength this week, we are kicking off the week with some incline press work, followed by some volume on the press and pull, and finishing off the session with some arms. Wednesday, we are hitting a 20-rep max on the RDL before getting in some single-leg work and some core and pull accessory work.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week in weightlifting, we are working on the spit jerk technique. This is the perfect session for those wanting to increase their confidence overhead. Make sure not to miss out.
Ultra running has exploded in popularity in recent years. With a 345% increase in participation over the last decade and ultra running races ranging from 50k to seemingly limitless distances, it's clear that pushing the limits is becoming the new normal. Ultra running is no longer reserved for elite athletes; it's now accessible to everyday runners craving their next challenge.
The Appeal of Ultra Running
Whether you're inspired by elite ultra running athletes like Jim Walmsley or Courtney Dauwalter—or you're simply looking for your next big adventure, ultra running is the ultimate test of endurance. With postcard-perfect ultra running race locations and affordable entry fees, there's never been a better time to go long.
So, what are six things you should know when preparing for your first ultra running event?
1. Embrace the Suffering in Ultra Running Training
Ultra running is not just about physical endurance—it's about mental resilience. Unlike shorter distances, the longer you go in ultra running, the more variables come into play, from cramps and GI issues to sleep deprivation and hallucinations. The perfect ultra running race is rare, and there will be tough moments.
Some of my best memories from ultra running races are actually from getting out and training in tough conditions. Run at night, practice back-to-back long runs, and push through discomfort. The more you expose yourself to hardship in ultra running training, the better equipped you'll be to handle race-day challenges When they arise, not IF they arise.
2. Don't Skip the Hike Training for Ultra Running
Most first-time ultra runners underestimate how much time they will spend hiking, especially in mountainous ultra running terrain. All UTMB 100-mile ultra running races feature at least 10,000 metres of ascent and descent as standard. No one runs all of that!
Incorporate regular hiking into your ultra running training. If you don't have access to mountains, simulate elevation with hill repeats, stair climbing, or treadmill incline workouts.Practice efficient hiking techniques, and use trekking poles if they're allowed in your ultra running race.
3. Build Your Low-End Speed for Ultra Running
In an ultra marathon, you'll likely spend a lot of time running at a slower pace, so focus on improving your low-end aerobic capacity for ultra running. If you speak to the majority of ultra runners, they say they want to get faster, and what they mean is their top-end speed. It takes a lot of work to get your top-end sustainable pace from 4.00/km to 3.45/km, and this won't serve you much value in a 12-hour ultra running race vs. working on your lower-end speed and getting your easy running pace from 6.30/km to 6.15/km. This is more likely to eat hours off your ultra running finishing time as you race longer and longer.
4. Dial in Your Ultra Running Nutrition
Depending on the ultra-running race, you could be out on the course for anywhere from six to sixty hours… a true test of endurance! You will need a lot of food to fuel that kind of ultra running effort. Nutrition is one of the most critical (and personal) parts of ultra running.
Practice eating during your long ultra running training sessions. Try different food combinations—gels, bars, real food—and figure out what your body can handle during ultra running. A good rule of thumb is to take in at least 200 calories per hour of moving as a low-end range for ultra running. I like to start at 75g/h as a base level and work up or down based on feeling during ultra running events.
5. Prepare for the Mental Summits and Valleys of Ultra Running
During an ultra running race, you'll feel invincible one minute and hit rock bottom the next. It's normal to experience extreme highs and lows both physically and mentally in ultra running, and the worst part is these feelings often arrive unannounced and at seemingly varied lengths. You can feel amazing for 3 minutes and then rough for9 hours! Why?
When you're in a low during an ultra running event, learn to fragment the race into smaller chunks.Focus on reaching the next aid station or covering the next 5 kilometers or even to the next tree! Keep in mind that the bad times will pass. Use mindfulness techniques like breathing exercises or repeat a mantra to keep your mind calm during ultra running.
6. Enjoy the Ultra Running Journey
Running your first ultra is a monumental achievement in the world of ultra running. The early mornings, long training days, and the ultra running race itself are all part of the adventure. Remember why you signed up for ultra running and take time to appreciate the journey. Smile, stay present, and soak it all in. The finish line is just a small part of the ultra running experience—You are no doubt a stronger, more resilient person!
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - SMASH LIFE - Mental Toughness - Hard Work
Monday
Time: 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: Tempo
PM Session only: This evening we will be holding Tempo pace (7/10 RPE) for 4 mins blocks of work. Each block will have a 1 min recovery. 7x reps.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. This week we will be running 1600m repeats that will gradually build in pace.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
If you didn't run track, today we have some speed work for you today. We will be running broken 400s. Where the first 100m will be hard (9/10 effort) into a 300m float recovery. Aim for 8 - 12 x reps.
Friday
Time: 5:29am & 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will have bridge repeats for everyone. Helping you build some strength in your legs. There will be to start times, to cater for thsoe wanting to run a bit longer.
We are starting the week with some hinge-focused work. Power cleans into hang power cleans building over 6 sets before we continue with our Frong Stance Deadlifts; the workout will be heavy but fast and furious; do not be fooled by the lateral Jump!
Monday:
Strength:
A) Every 90secs x 6 - 1 Power Clean, 1 Hang Power Clean
B) Every 2mins x 5 - Frong Stance Deadlift
Conditioning:
For time
12-10-8-6-4-2 Deadlift
24-20-16-12-8-4 Lateral Jumps Over The Bar
Tuesday:
You have the chance to progress the pendlay rows before we go into some upper accessory work. A gymnastics
focused workout with wall walks and chest to bars are broken up with some assault bike efforts.
Strength:
A) Every 2mins x 4 - 8/8/6/6 Pendlay Rows
B) Every 3mins x 4 3-5 Strict Pull Ups & Zotman Curls
Conditioning:
AMRAP 16
18/15 cal Assault bike
8 c2b
3 wall walks
Wednesday:
Strongman Day, where we have a sandbag squat and
There will be a lunge complex and some hip extensions, followed by a partner workout for time, which will finish with an all-out effort on the ski erg.
Strength:
A) Every 3mins x 5 - 5 Sandbag Squats + 6 Alt Reverse Lunges
B) Every 90secs x 5 - 10 Weighted Hip Extensions
Conditioning:
In Pairs in a 15-minute window
2 rounds
40/30 cal ski
40 TTB
50 wall balls
Max distance ski in the remaining time
Thursday:
On Thursday, we will strict press heavy before hitting an AMRAP set. Then, we will do some interval work with running and dumbbells.
Strength:
A) Every 2 mins x 6 Strict press 3 3 2 2 1 + 90 sec amrap @ 75%
Conditioning:
2 Rounds:
5 min amrap
Pool Run
5 Man makers
rest 2 mins
5 min amrap
2 Laps car park run
20 Double DB hang snatch
rest 2 mins
Friday:
Friday, we finish the week with axel bar squats and Dumbell rows before diving into a team workout.
ENGINE
Mikkos Triangle testing week.
GYMNASTICS
This week, we're going upside down with handstand holds and handstand push-ups, testing balance, strength, and control. Then, we’ll lock in that overhead power with some strength work.
HYROX
This is a race simulation in which we will take on a full hyrax. It can be done individually or in a pair, and the run distance can be changed.
MOBILITY
The focus is the same, but it's on a different weekend. Unlock those hips so you can sit on the floor next IFTAR. The main focus will be lower flexibility and glute activation.
PURE STRENGTH
In Pure Strength this week, we are kicking off the week with some incline press work, followed by some volume on the press and pull, and finishing off the session with some arms. Wednesday, we are hitting a 20-rep max on the RDL before getting in some single-leg work and some core and pull accessory work.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week in weightlifting, we are working on the spit jerk technique. This is the perfect session for those wanting to increase their confidence overhead. Make sure not to miss out.
Monday Ride
A ride dedicated to group riding skills and some fitness. Coach Rob Foster leads this ride, if you'd like to join email rf@innerfight.com
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Bike DXB
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. This run is currently gearing run fitness towards the incoming half marathons. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Ultra running has exploded in popularity in recent years. With a 345% increase in participation over the last decade and ultra running races ranging from 50k to seemingly limitless distances, it's clear that pushing the limits is becoming the new normal. Ultra running is no longer reserved for elite athletes; it's now accessible to everyday runners craving their next challenge.
The Appeal of Ultra Running
Whether you're inspired by elite ultra running athletes like Jim Walmsley or Courtney Dauwalter—or you're simply looking for your next big adventure, ultra running is the ultimate test of endurance. With postcard-perfect ultra running race locations and affordable entry fees, there's never been a better time to go long.
So, what are six things you should know when preparing for your first ultra running event?
1. Embrace the Suffering in Ultra Running Training
Ultra running is not just about physical endurance—it's about mental resilience. Unlike shorter distances, the longer you go in ultra running, the more variables come into play, from cramps and GI issues to sleep deprivation and hallucinations. The perfect ultra running race is rare, and there will be tough moments.
Some of my best memories from ultra running races are actually from getting out and training in tough conditions. Run at night, practice back-to-back long runs, and push through discomfort. The more you expose yourself to hardship in ultra running training, the better equipped you'll be to handle race-day challenges When they arise, not IF they arise.
2. Don't Skip the Hike Training for Ultra Running
Most first-time ultra runners underestimate how much time they will spend hiking, especially in mountainous ultra running terrain. All UTMB 100-mile ultra running races feature at least 10,000 metres of ascent and descent as standard. No one runs all of that!
Incorporate regular hiking into your ultra running training. If you don't have access to mountains, simulate elevation with hill repeats, stair climbing, or treadmill incline workouts.Practice efficient hiking techniques, and use trekking poles if they're allowed in your ultra running race.
3. Build Your Low-End Speed for Ultra Running
In an ultra marathon, you'll likely spend a lot of time running at a slower pace, so focus on improving your low-end aerobic capacity for ultra running. If you speak to the majority of ultra runners, they say they want to get faster, and what they mean is their top-end speed. It takes a lot of work to get your top-end sustainable pace from 4.00/km to 3.45/km, and this won't serve you much value in a 12-hour ultra running race vs. working on your lower-end speed and getting your easy running pace from 6.30/km to 6.15/km. This is more likely to eat hours off your ultra running finishing time as you race longer and longer.
4. Dial in Your Ultra Running Nutrition
Depending on the ultra-running race, you could be out on the course for anywhere from six to sixty hours… a true test of endurance! You will need a lot of food to fuel that kind of ultra running effort. Nutrition is one of the most critical (and personal) parts of ultra running.
Practice eating during your long ultra running training sessions. Try different food combinations—gels, bars, real food—and figure out what your body can handle during ultra running. A good rule of thumb is to take in at least 200 calories per hour of moving as a low-end range for ultra running. I like to start at 75g/h as a base level and work up or down based on feeling during ultra running events.
5. Prepare for the Mental Summits and Valleys of Ultra Running
During an ultra running race, you'll feel invincible one minute and hit rock bottom the next. It's normal to experience extreme highs and lows both physically and mentally in ultra running, and the worst part is these feelings often arrive unannounced and at seemingly varied lengths. You can feel amazing for 3 minutes and then rough for9 hours! Why?
When you're in a low during an ultra running event, learn to fragment the race into smaller chunks.Focus on reaching the next aid station or covering the next 5 kilometers or even to the next tree! Keep in mind that the bad times will pass. Use mindfulness techniques like breathing exercises or repeat a mantra to keep your mind calm during ultra running.
6. Enjoy the Ultra Running Journey
Running your first ultra is a monumental achievement in the world of ultra running. The early mornings, long training days, and the ultra running race itself are all part of the adventure. Remember why you signed up for ultra running and take time to appreciate the journey. Smile, stay present, and soak it all in. The finish line is just a small part of the ultra running experience—You are no doubt a stronger, more resilient person!
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - SMASH LIFE - Mental Toughness - Hard Work
Ultra running has exploded in popularity in recent years. With a 345% increase in participation over the last decade and ultra running races ranging from 50k to seemingly limitless distances, it's clear that pushing the limits is becoming the new normal. Ultra running is no longer reserved for elite athletes; it's now accessible to everyday runners craving their next challenge.
The Appeal of Ultra Running
Whether you're inspired by elite ultra running athletes like Jim Walmsley or Courtney Dauwalter—or you're simply looking for your next big adventure, ultra running is the ultimate test of endurance. With postcard-perfect ultra running race locations and affordable entry fees, there's never been a better time to go long.
So, what are six things you should know when preparing for your first ultra running event?
1. Embrace the Suffering in Ultra Running Training
Ultra running is not just about physical endurance—it's about mental resilience. Unlike shorter distances, the longer you go in ultra running, the more variables come into play, from cramps and GI issues to sleep deprivation and hallucinations. The perfect ultra running race is rare, and there will be tough moments.
Some of my best memories from ultra running races are actually from getting out and training in tough conditions. Run at night, practice back-to-back long runs, and push through discomfort. The more you expose yourself to hardship in ultra running training, the better equipped you'll be to handle race-day challenges When they arise, not IF they arise.
2. Don't Skip the Hike Training for Ultra Running
Most first-time ultra runners underestimate how much time they will spend hiking, especially in mountainous ultra running terrain. All UTMB 100-mile ultra running races feature at least 10,000 metres of ascent and descent as standard. No one runs all of that!
Incorporate regular hiking into your ultra running training. If you don't have access to mountains, simulate elevation with hill repeats, stair climbing, or treadmill incline workouts.Practice efficient hiking techniques, and use trekking poles if they're allowed in your ultra running race.
3. Build Your Low-End Speed for Ultra Running
In an ultra marathon, you'll likely spend a lot of time running at a slower pace, so focus on improving your low-end aerobic capacity for ultra running. If you speak to the majority of ultra runners, they say they want to get faster, and what they mean is their top-end speed. It takes a lot of work to get your top-end sustainable pace from 4.00/km to 3.45/km, and this won't serve you much value in a 12-hour ultra running race vs. working on your lower-end speed and getting your easy running pace from 6.30/km to 6.15/km. This is more likely to eat hours off your ultra running finishing time as you race longer and longer.
4. Dial in Your Ultra Running Nutrition
Depending on the ultra-running race, you could be out on the course for anywhere from six to sixty hours… a true test of endurance! You will need a lot of food to fuel that kind of ultra running effort. Nutrition is one of the most critical (and personal) parts of ultra running.
Practice eating during your long ultra running training sessions. Try different food combinations—gels, bars, real food—and figure out what your body can handle during ultra running. A good rule of thumb is to take in at least 200 calories per hour of moving as a low-end range for ultra running. I like to start at 75g/h as a base level and work up or down based on feeling during ultra running events.
5. Prepare for the Mental Summits and Valleys of Ultra Running
During an ultra running race, you'll feel invincible one minute and hit rock bottom the next. It's normal to experience extreme highs and lows both physically and mentally in ultra running, and the worst part is these feelings often arrive unannounced and at seemingly varied lengths. You can feel amazing for 3 minutes and then rough for9 hours! Why?
When you're in a low during an ultra running event, learn to fragment the race into smaller chunks.Focus on reaching the next aid station or covering the next 5 kilometers or even to the next tree! Keep in mind that the bad times will pass. Use mindfulness techniques like breathing exercises or repeat a mantra to keep your mind calm during ultra running.
6. Enjoy the Ultra Running Journey
Running your first ultra is a monumental achievement in the world of ultra running. The early mornings, long training days, and the ultra running race itself are all part of the adventure. Remember why you signed up for ultra running and take time to appreciate the journey. Smile, stay present, and soak it all in. The finish line is just a small part of the ultra running experience—You are no doubt a stronger, more resilient person!
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - SMASH LIFE - Mental Toughness - Hard Work
One-Hour Workout: Revving Your Swim Engine
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