Ultra running: How long is an ultra marathon really?

If long distances and adventures appeal to you, you might ask yourself the following question: How long is an ultramarathon?

And what does it mean Ultra to run? In this blog, you'll learn everything about the world beyond 42.195 kilometers.

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What is an ultramarathon?

An ultramarathon (short: ultra) is by definition any running distance that is longer than a classic marathon. That means: Everything from 42.196 kilometers It already counts as an ultramarathon. The most common ultra distances are:

• 50 km: The “entry-level ultra”
• 100 km: A classic road or trail running distance
• 100 miles (approx. 161 km): Very popular, especially in trail running
• timelines: e.g. 6-hour, 12-hour, or 24-hour runs

Depending on the event, an ultramarathon can take place on asphalt, gravel, in the mountains or on trails. These aspects give ultramarathons a special appeal, as they take place close to nature and offer an adventurous aspect.

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How long is an ultramarathon really?

There is no fixed upper limit or fixed categories for the distance of an ultramarathon. Some of the most famous ultramarathons go well beyond the 100-mile mark. examples:

• UTMB (Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc): approx. 171 km, 10,000 meters in altitude
• Spartathlon: 246 km from Athens to Sparta
• Badwater 135: 217 km through Death Valley, USA

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Why do people run ultras?

Ultra running means more than just a physical challenge. Many athletes report that they are involved in their Push mental limits And a profound emotional development run through.

Especially with trail ultras, the intensive Nature experience in the foreground, often with a feeling of mindfulness and inner peace goes hand in hand.

In addition, there is the strong Sense of community, which develops among runners over long distances. Last but not least, many find ultras to be welcome Diversification to the classic marathon, which is often street-dominated.

An ultramarathon allows athletes to approach their deepest mental abysses and regularly gets people to experience and exceed their limits.

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How do you prepare for an ultramarathon?

Preparing for an ultra differs from marathon training in several ways.

The primary focus of your training should be on longer, slower units. These help prepare your passive structures, muscles and metabolism for continuous stress. The focus is on the specifics of your training.

Back-to-back long runs are a useful tool. Since many Ultramrathons go over several stages, you should get used to training on consecutive days.

Nutrition during the race is a decisive factor when it comes to the length of the tracks. You should train your stomach and try out different products to test their compatibility.

Specific strength training is also important in order to be able to maintain a clean running technique over the duration of the race. This saves energy and reduces the risk of injury.

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conclusion

How long is an ultramarathon? Longer than a marathon — often much longer. But the question alone falls short. who Ultra run wants, needs endurance, mental strength and good preparation. In return, unique experiences, strong community and a deeper understanding of one's own body and mind await.

Do you want to try your first ultra? Then start small, for example with a 50 km run — and embark on the adventure that starts behind the marathon.