Answering the Top Googled Ultra Marathon Questions

If you’re interested in or prepping for your first Ultra, it’s likely that you will have a lot of questions about the challenge you’re about to take on.

We’re going to answer 8 of the top googled Ultra Marathon questions.

How long is an ultramarathon?

This varies from race to race but as the name suggests an Ultra is a little bit more than your average Marathon. An Ultra is any race over the usual 26.2 miles.

Common Ultra Distances are:

• 50K- Only 5 miles more than a regular Marathon, the 50K race is the shortest common Ultra length.
• 50 Miles
• 100 Miles
• 24 Hour- Some races are timed rather than being a fixed distance. These are usually run in a small loop course making refuelling easy as your gear will never be far away and doesn’t need to be carried.

What is the average pace for an ultramarathon?

This is a difficult question to answer because for most ultra runners’ pace will vary throughout. Ultras are run at a much slower pace than regular marathons, for most runners running an ultra at regular marathon pace just isn’t sustainable.

Taking a ‘slow and steady’ approach is key to ultra success.

Your Ultra pace will depend on several factors, including:

• Whether you’re on an uphill or downhill- Your downhill pace will inevitably be quicker than your uphill. Even the most experienced ultra runners can sometimes slow to a walk on a tough incline.
• Terrain- Most ultras are not road races so sometimes uneven terrain underfoot can slow you down.
• Experience/level of fitness- If you’re new to the distance you’re running it is best to take a slower approach.

How do I train for an ultramarathon?

Like any event, training for an ultra takes a lot of hard work and dedication. Once you’ve decided your distance it’s a good idea to have a well-structured training plan that will help you to gradually build up your endurance.

Our top tips for ultra training are:

• Build gradually- The safest way to train is to slowly increase the length and intensity of your training workouts. Pushing yourself to do too much too soon will likely result in injury.
• Mimic race conditions- As we know most ultras aren’t run on the road, by training on similar terrain to what you’ll experience in the actual race you will be better prepared.
• Mix it up- Not all your training should be running. Switch it up every now and then with a different form of activity, for example swimming or cycling. Strength training is also very important to prevent injury.
• Practice with Nutrition- As much as your physical training is important, you should also practice your nutrition plan way ahead of the race. Using nutrition in your training will aid your performance and recovery, as well as giving you the opportunity for trial and error to see what works best for you.

See Ultra Marathon Training: How to Prepare Yourself for more on ultra prep and training.

What should I eat during an ultramarathon?

As mentioned in our previous point, Nutrition is absolutely key to success in ultrarunning and should be practiced and fine-tuned way ahead of your event.

There isn’t a short answer to this one so for an in depth look at Ultra Marathon nutrition see the below pages:

Nutrition for Ultra Marathons

Nutrition Guide-Ultra

How do I prevent blisters during an ultramarathon?

Blisters are a very valid concern for runners of any distance. The best way to prevent blisters is to wear the correct socks.

A well-fitting sports/running sock is the best defence against blisters and are well worth investing in. Sports specific socks are designed for a better fit and are made from moisture wicking fabrics rather than cotton for quick drying and reduced chafing.

Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew

The Injinji toe socks are designed to prevent blisters by stopping the toes from rubbing together and wicking away moisture with their patented COOLMAX material.

Blister Resist Quarter Running Socks 

Balega’s ‘Blister Resist’ socks combine mohair fibres with ‘drynamix’ material to keep feet cool and dry. With an enhanced fit and seamless toe these socks are perfectly designed to prevent blisters during any activity.

BodyGlide Foot 

For a double defence against blisters, you can also use a product like BodyGlide to further reduce rubbing.

What are common injuries in ultramarathons?

The most common injuries in ultramarathon running are Musculoskeletal (MSK) and are commonly seen as a result of overuse bellow the knee.

Common MSK injuries and conditions that affect ultrarunners are:

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
• Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome
• Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
• Stress Fractures
• Muscle Cramp
• Plantar Fasciitis

For tips and tricks to prevent running injuries see: Effective Strategies to Prevent Running Injuries 

Runners may also experience GI symptoms and environmental illnesses such as altitude sickness.

What gear do I need for an ultramarathon?

The gear you need will depend on the length of your event however there are some basic bits of kit that every ultra runner should have.

• Running Vest- While there will be plenty on offer at aid stations you should still carry your own supplies as well. For this you will need a running vest.
• Safety kit- Make sure you have a small first aid kit and foil blanket, hopefully you won’t need to use these but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Head torch- Some ultra races, especially multi-day events, will go on after dark. For these events it’s good to have a headtorch handy.
• Suncream- A sun burn could really ruin your race.
• Waterproofs- These wont always be necessary but if rain is forecast you will benefit from packing a lightweight waterproof jacket.
• Soft flasks- The best, lightweight, way to carry your water and energy drinks.
• Nutrition- Gels, chews, bars, whatever you find works best for you. Remember there is usually plenty of food on offer at aid stations, so you don’t need to carry everything with you but make sure to check what’s available beforehand.

What are the best ultramarathons in the world?

Everyone has a slightly different idea of what makes a perfect race however, there are a few ultramarathons that are widely considered some of the best amongst runners across the globe. Here are a few of our top picks:

Ultra Trail Mont Blanc (UTMB)

One of the most well-know competitive ultras, starting and finishing in Chamonix France. The UTMB follows a route around the Mont Blanc Massif and passes through Italy, Switzerland, and France.

The race covers 160km (100miles) and usually takes place at the end of August.

Maderia Island Ultra Trail

The Maderia Island Ultra Trail is a really unique race covering the length of the Portuguese island of Maderia. The standard race is 115km from one end of the island to the other, however there are also various shorter races available ranging from 16km-85km. This race takes place in late April.

The Spine Race 

Probably the toughest race in the UK, the Spine Race takes place in mid-January so cold icy conditions are to be expected.

Starting in Edale Derbyshire the race follows the Penine Way up to Kirk Yetholm on the Scottish boarder, covering 268 gruelling miles.

Comrades Marathon

Comrades is the world’s biggest and oldest ultra marathon, first taking place in 1921. The race covers 55 miles (90k) of road between the cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg in South Africa.

To take part there are certain entry requirements that must be met and every participant must pass a medical questionnaire.

Still got questions? Feel free to Contact Us via the online form, email, phone, or live chat.