What is an ultramarathon ?

Ultra-marathon, ultra-trail, ultra-endurance… These words are the stuff of dreams for many runners and includes legendary races like the Ultra Trail Mont Blanc and the Western States Endurance Run. However, the definition of these terms can be a little vague. So what is an ultramarathon and, more generally, an ultra-distance race? Here’s our answer to that question as well as advice on how to prepare for one.

What does ‘ultramarathon’ really mean?

While an ultramarathon is quite often defined as a race longer than a marathon – longer than 42km (26.10 miles) – an ultra actually involves a commitment of much more than that.

Ultra-distance: what do the governing bodies say?

There are various governing bodies that define race formats, and while there might be subtle differences from one body to the other, the general idea is as follows:

Trail running:

• Short: 21 – 41km (13 – 26 miles)
• Long: 42 – 80km (26 – 50 miles)
• Ultra: longer than 80km (50 miles). In reality, the most common ultra-trail formats are longer than 100km or 100 miles (160km).

It’s important to note that elevation gain (distance gained vertically) is a major factor in determining the difficulty of a race. In road running, the most common ultra-distance formats are usually 100km (62 miles), 100 miles, and also 24 hours.

Defining an ultramarathon in terms of running time

Here at Salomon, we also see the value in defining an ultra-endurance race in terms of running time. Within the running community, it’s generally agreed that an ultra can be defined as a race time over eight to ten hours, with no upper limit. In our opinion, taking the emphasis off distance and instead basing the definition of an ultra on a particularly long race time is a better representation of the commitment and race management needed to complete this type of event.

Unusual race formats

There are a few legendary races – Marathon des Sables (250km (155 miles) in six stages) and the Barkley (only 16 finishers since the race began in 1986) – which feature race formats so unique that they have developed quite formidable reputations. Inspired by these, race organizers have become increasingly creative in finding ways of providing their participants with an overwhelming challenge – both physically and mentally – with new races like the Backyard Ultra and Last One Standing (which in France is called Dernier Homme Debout). The format of these races is to complete a loop within a given amount of time, repeatedly. Runners who fail to reach the time limit are eliminated until only one runner left standing. Because these extraordinary challenges are so original, they have become more and more popular and are redefining certain aspects of the sport.

Beyond the numbers: the spirit of an ultra

As we’ve already seen, defining an ultramarathon uniquely in terms of distance or running time is both oversimplified and imprecise. In fact, whether you’re running on trail or tarmac, an ultra is above all an act of engagement, an adventurous state of mind, and the discovery of the mountains, countryside and other unique environments as well as of yourself. While the best runners will humbly strive for an outstanding performance or a high-ranking finish, the primary objective for most ultra runners is to finish the race. Being able to enjoy yourself throughout the long hours of the race is the ultimate reward for all the preparation, mental strength, and excellent race management needed to cross the finish line.

An ever-growing craze

If ultra events continue to appeal to more and more runners, it’s because they have a deep significance to their participants. Whether it’s to achieve a goal as an athlete, to accomplish a personal challenge or as a thirst for adventure, the motivations for running an ultra are numerous, but at the same time, quite personal to each athlete. One thing’s for sure, though: committing to an ultra is a whole lot more than just playing sports or getting some exercise.

Running an ultra requires serious preparation

It’s easy to dream about running an ultra but keep in mind that running distances like these requires an extremely high level of physical, mental and logistical preparation. You can find lots of great advice in our how-to article How to prepare for an ultra trail. Building the endurance and physical qualities that are required for events like these doesn’t happen without the long hours of training that go along with it. We recommend that you adapt your training to the format of the race you’re shooting for (distance, elevation, terrain, etc.) and ramping up progressively. The foundation will essentially come from grinding out a bunch of miles at a slow pace, but it will also be important to work on technique as well as your strength, which will be needed to absorb shock during descents. Perfecting the use of all the necessary equipment – like making the best clothing decisions – comes from the experience that results from training outdoors and preparing for your race. To avoid surprises on race day, it’s best to avoid trying new things, especially in terms of hydration and nutrition. If you’ll be running at night, it’s important to get used to moving in the beam of your headlamp. Finally, stepping up your mental game will be needed not only to get you through the low points but also for navigating exposed terrain – even more so for races this long. Remember, you’ll always get your energy back! When you decide to run an ultra you have to be totally committed, while at the same time balance your work and family commitments. This is not always easy, to say the least!

Finishing an ultra-endurance race

To finish an ultra and at the same time achieve a life-long running goal, race management must be flawless. You have to be really good at conserving energy and following your race strategy as closely as possible. Logistics must also be well-organized to ensure you stay properly fueled and hydrated while adapting to race conditions and unexpected events.

Clearly, total commitment is needed to prepare for and finish an ultra, and you’ll need the help of friends and loved ones in this human and athletic adventure. This is what makes this kind of experience so powerful and authentic, and it goes a long way in explaining why ultras are so popular.