Western States 100: A Decade To A Day
My journey to the Western States 100 took 10 years of training, setbacks, and growth. Here’s what it takes to reach the start line — and the finish — of ultrarunning’s most iconic 100-mile race.
Hiking in Ultra Running
By Coach Jason Bahamundi In 2014, I entered my first ultra: the Rocky Raccoon 50 miler. I vividly remember two people telling me that they don’t run ultras because they don’t feel like it’s running since it includes hiking. I couldn’t understand this thought process. Hiking is essential to run faster, and it is a[…]
The Ultrarunner’s Crew
Tips for Crewing & Pacing By Coach Maria Simone I love the opportunity to support another runner going for the ultramarathon finish line – especially the first-time finish line. There is something special about being a part of all of that suffering – and watching the human mind, body, and spirit overcome. I love to[…]
How do we run?
An overview of the gait cycle and 3 common form issues By Coach Maria Simone As an endurance athlete, you’ve likely been asked: “Why do you run?” Our friends and family are so curious about why we put so much time and energy into our training. A less-often asked question is: “How do you run?” In[…]
Hit the Dirt! 8 Tips To Start Trail Running
By Coach Maria Simone Trail running and ultra-running has been steadily growing in popularity. For those who are new to the dirt, you may have some questions. So, we have 8 tips to help you transition smoothly to being a a trail runner. Gauge effort using rate of perceived exertion or heart rate. Given the variability[…]
Vermont 100 Endurance Run: Digging the Mind Out of the Trenches
By Coach Lindsay Leigh I had so many reasons to quit the Vermont 100 Endurance Run, and reasons I knew were good enough and people would support me. I had trench foot, a strained calf, blisters covering my feet, and a series of other maladies. But I continued on, aid station to aid station, and[…]
The Neglected Cool Down
While the end of a workout may sometimes seem unimportant, it really sets us up to recover properly, both mentally and physically, so we can have a quality workout the next day.
Gritty, Cheerful, Supportive Ultrarunners: Umstead 100 Race Report
~ By Coach Lindsay Leigh The 100 mile distance has intrigued me for years. I only had to decide when the right time would be to toe the line. Up until the start of the 2018 Umstead 100, and even during some moments of the race, I could not quite wrap my head around running[…]
Fueling & Hydration Series 5: What about caffeine?
In the 5th installment of our video series on fueling and hydration for endurance sport, Coach Maria offers tips and tricks for using caffeine as part of your fueling plan. She reviews: Duration of the race and caffeine use Practicing with caffeine to determine tolerance and impact Sources for caffeine intake Tips for using cola
Fueling & Hydration Series 4: Hydration & Electrolytes
In this fourth video of our fueling & hydration series, Coach Maria offers insights for your fluid and electrolyte intake. She covers: using a sweat test to determine your sweat loss, which can help you identify fluid & electrolyte needs (Note: your goal isn’t 100% replenishment!) understanding how weather impacts hydration needs tallying your total[…]