Trail running | What is ultra running?
Trail running is a sport that is becoming increasingly popular. It involves running off paved roads and paths, in the great outdoors. Since trail running has many different facets, there are also different types of runs. One particularly challenging variant is ultra running.
What is an ultra run?
An ultra-marathon is a long-distance race that is usually longer than a marathon (42.195 kilometers). The distance of an ultra-marathon can vary from 50 kilometers to several hundred kilometers. There are also ultra-marathons that last several days and in which participants run day and night.
Ultra runs place high demands on the runners. The routes often lead through challenging terrain such as mountains, forests and deserts. Participants must be strong not only physically but also mentally in order to master the challenges of ultra running.
Why ultra running?
The question of why someone would want to do an ultra run is legitimate. However, ultra runs offer a unique experience and many advantages over shorter runs:
- Ultimate challenge: An ultra-marathon is an enormous physical and mental challenge. Participants test their limits and overcome obstacles they previously thought insurmountable.
- Connection to nature: During an ultra-run, runners immerse themselves in nature and experience the beauty of the landscape up close. Running off the beaten track allows you to discover new places and experience nature intensively.
- Community: Ultra races have a special community. Participants support each other and form a strong community that shares the same enthusiasm for running and the outdoors.
- Personal growth: An ultra-run can lead to intense personal growth. Participants learn to push their limits, cope with pain and fatigue, and build mental strength.
If you already have experience running and are looking for a new challenge, an ultra run could be just the thing for you. It is important to prepare well for an ultra run and to start with shorter distances to slowly get your body used to the stresses of ultra running.
So lace up your running shoes, explore nature and set yourself a big goal – run an ultra!