However, the deal breaker is that in lieu of higher mileage, runners regularly incorporate strength and cross training to keep their bodies strong. It is my belief that newer ultra runners are more successful, and more likely to remain injury free, by keeping their weekly mileage on the lower end of the spectrum for ultra training. You should also be prepared to run upwards of 60-80 miles per week across five days of workouts, as well as incorporating injury prevention strength training sessions. Where should my weekly mileage be to start this plan?Īspiring 100 mile runners should begin their training with a solid running base, feeling comfortable running long runs over 20 miles, and should be regularly running 35-40 mile weeks while remaining injury free.

Training for a race of the magnitude of 100 miler can be a sacrifice for more than just the runner. Further: make sure your support system (spouse, kids, family, etc.) is on board. I always recommend that runners really take an honest look at their day to day life, and make sure that this volume of training will fit without causing unnecessary stress. Training for a 100 miler is definitely a massive time commitment. Because again: 100 milers aren’t easy.Ībsolutely exhausted, happy, and showing off our first 100 mile finishers buckles, with race director Matthew Hammersmith of Upstate Ultra.

“embracing the suck”) can help with the mental fortitude it takes to make it to a 100 mile finish line. And having the emotional experience of what it feels like to be on your feet for well over 50 miles (i.e.

Having that physical experience and a solid running base will give you the best chances for success in both completing your race and making it through your training cycle injury free. Further, they should have at least one or more completed 50 mile ultras (or longer) on their resume. I personally recommend aspiring 100 mile ultrarunners have at least few years of shorter distance endurance running/ regular training experience. 100 miles is a really, really long way to cover on foot, and should not be taken lightly. BUT, I don’t like seeing people getting hurt. As I said in my 50 mile training plan post : I’m a rose-colored-glasses wearing, dream encouraging, enthusiastic cheerleader for most things in life. Disclaimer: if you are looking for a blog post advocating couch – to – 100 miler, this is not it.

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