If you’re thinking about running an ultramarathon, you’ve probably asked yourself this question:
Am I really ready to run 30+ miles?
I remember when I signed up for my first 50k. It was right after my second marathon and I thought I could conquer the world.
But as time passed and training weeks ticked by, I started drowning in doubt.
“A marathon is really hard!” I kept telling myself, “How are you going to run even further?“
I had no idea if I was ready. And back then, I didn’t know anyone to ask.
The “Am I ready to run an ultramarathon?” question is probably the most asked question I get from readers. They love the idea of an ultra, but just don’t know if they’re ready.
And it’s because they don’t know, that many runners never sign up. They have too many doubts and are too scared to take the risk.
Today I’m going to attempt to answer that question for you. And hopefully reduce some of that fear.
Running an ultramarathon is big — crazy even — but it’s not something fear should ever hold you back from accomplishing.
To get started, you just need the confidence to know that you’re ready.
Introducing Trail Talk
This first video, on how to know if you’re ready for an ultra, is part of a new video series I’m launching today called Trail Talk. Every few weeks I’ll address a trail or ultra running related topic or question over video.
Video is new for me, but after watching all the great stuff people like Jason, Ethan, and Sage are doing, I decided it was too good a format for information sharing to keep avoiding. So here it goes nothing…
I’m the first to admit that I’m a little awkward in front of the camera. You’ll have to bear with me. Hopefully that will ware off over time. 🙂
Here’s the first edition of Trail Talk. I’d love to know what you think, so don’t hesitate to leave feedback in the comments. And of course, I also love to see comments related to the topic!
What’s discussed in today’s video:
- Finding the drive and motivation for an ultramarathon goal
- What endurance background is needed before running an ultra
- Calculating your base mileage before training
- How to run an ultramarathon and still have a life
- Next steps for getting started
Additional RCR Resources:
- Discover Your Ultramarathon: A Beginner’s Guide to Running an Ultramarathon
- 4 Mistakes to Avoid During Your First Ultramarathon
- 6 Things Every Beginner Should Know Before Trail Running
- Beginner Ultramarathon Advice: An Interview with Sage Canaday
Ready to take the next steps? Start with RCR’s free 10-part Trail Runner’s Cheat Sheet:
Doug, thanks so much for putting this together! It’s very timely for me, as I’m trying to decide if I should sign up for my first ultra (American River 50). I sure hope I can do it and train through the winter months.
Hey Anya, thanks for reading/watching! I hope I can help with your decision.
I say just do it! Let me know if you have any specific questions before making the decision.
Thanks for posting this! I got a lot of great insight.