Grit is one of the key qualities that makes for a successful ultra runner. I can’t adequately express all of it’s nuances, but I know it when I see it. And if that link was too depressing for you, then try this one.
Is Endurance Transferable?
Given I write a blog about running ridiculously long distances, it won’t surprise you to learn that my primary forms of exercise are either running or running’s slower cousin, walking. This isn’t the entirety of my fitness routine, but it’s pretty close. In addition, I do 5-10 minutes of core work 4 or 5 days…
Not Gumby
It’s fairly well known that if you want to do well in ultras then you need to have grit. I won’t buck conventional wisdom, however I do think there’s another trait that is equally important: adaptability. As the races get longer, you need to be more flexible with every strategy and tactic you’ve planned heading…
Eastern States Buckle(s)
Added a second ES100 buckle to my collection last weekend – total time 33:29:31.
Rule #1
As I’ve gained experience running ultras over the past several years, I’ve tried to develop a set of rules to help me along the way. Unfortunately, what seems to work for one race or season or distance doesn’t translate well to another. So what start out as rules gently dissolve in general guidelines: don’t go out…
Old Dominion 100 Maintaining Update
I’ve decided that I’m not in a training cycle so much as I am in a maintaining cycle. I spent 5 months building for Umstead and was probably in my best physical/endurance shape heading into it. It would be great to take a step up from there, but the timing is a little tricky with…
Managing Expectations
I don’t mean to do it. I really don’t, but I have a habit of letting my expectations get out of hand. I typically set out with reasonable targets and goals for myself, however along the way they start to grow. First a little here. Then a little more there. The next thing I know,…
Western States 100 Lottery
Western States is the oldest 100 mile race in the world. It has similar prestige in the ultra running world to the Boston Marathon, however unlike Boston it is open to anyone who can complete a qualifying race regardless of time. And there are many qualifying races that are less than 100 miles in distance. …
Current Shoe Rotation
This blog is almost a year old now and I haven’t done a post yet about my running shoes. The primary reason is because I’m not a shoe guy. It seems like most blogs I read people are pretty fanatical about their shoes. They have a specific shoe or brand they love and that’s all…
Buckle #4
Finish time: 31:35:56