The Secret Ultra Runners Want You To Know...

[@louisbuisson]

I just completed my first Ironman at 60 and took my time to do it. After the bike leg I calculated how much time I had left for the marathon and I knew then that I could walk it and I'd be fine. Ended up running/walking with different people and made it with time to spare. Now I'm looking at Ultra's!

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! Best of luck finding your first ultra ☺️🙏

[@na-dk9vm]

Big congrats man. How quick was your swim??

[@louisbuisson]

@@na-dk9vm 90 minutes! Not fast but steady!

[@Reckoning2943]

I find Ultras to be Kinder to the body and mind than regular marathons. Regular marathons are all about PRs, racing, competition and pressure. You’ll push yourself to verge of death to hit a new PR. Ultras, while still being races, are much more about the experience itself and the mental strength to get to the start line. I’m a marathoner myself but I have to admit that the trail and ultra community always seem like the more fun and more relaxed bunch of people. They seem to be more in tune with life if that makes sense.

[@OmahaTonyG]

Im a marathon runner but I do Ultras from time to time. One of the best suggestions I was given was to focus on beating the cutoff times and only worry about completing the ultra marathons. After you have done a few you have a better feeling of the pace you need to do and the fueling strategy. Also you will be less sore after a 50 miler than after a 26.2 road race.

[@ChrisBranch]

I love this advice! Ultras go so much better if you start slow. If you make the first couple of cut-offs and feel like there's energy in the tank, then you can push at the end, but most people go out too fast (I made this mistake in the early days too!). And yes, I definitely ache less after ultras - I still find this so counterintuitive, but its true ☺️ Good luck with your running ☺️🙏

[@csn583]

If you're not doing active recovery as you go, you're probably not going to finish! Shorter distances let you self-destruct your way to the end and pay for it later. (Though what constitutes short is all relative.)

[@abernardes2]

Just about to do my first 50 miler this Saturday and this video came in hand do help calme down! Thanks ☺️

[@hick5y]

Not an ultra but when I did my first trail run I was wondering why everyone was running so slow. Was passing a lot of people then the first big hill came - which I knew to walk - but man at the top I've never felt so gassed 😂. Doing my first backyard ultra in Feb so will definitely conserve the energy and 'enjoy the views' - I like that!

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! I would love to do a backyard ultra. I was doing a race at the weekend where someone had run one recently. He said that the winner always came in the laps last. Most people were doing them in about 50 minutes, but the guy who won it would come in at 58, until his victory lap which he smashed in about 30 minutes 😂

[@barnacmongars]

I ran m'y fatest half marathon was 1h17 marathon was 3h00 . The ultra is moré about always moving and always being consistant. The intervalle for a marathon and ultra is the dame, the long run are différent. Personnally i rather run an ultra fast hiking

[@snickersthingz]

Ultra cutoff times are very generous, provided you don't get any kind of injury it is entirely possible to walk most of it. Its truly inspiring to see the variety of ages and body shapes getting those finisher medals.

[@ChrisBranch]

I agree, I love seeing everyone on the start line, it's so inspiring and I wonder what peoples' stories are that got them there 😊🙏

[@ianl4518]

Go and do a Mud Crew event and get back to us. 😂

[@fuzzyduck6]

Have a crack at Brecon 100😂

[@BaurJoe]

That bit about *not* thinking about how you felt at the end of a particular distance is key to me. I remember when I finished my first half-marathon and couldn't imagine going a step further. Then after my first marathon, I couldn't imagine going a step further. But because I was smart about how I ran my first ultra, and I know I'd run differently in a longer distance, I *can* imagine going further.

[@ChrisBranch]

It's such a helpful shift in mindset. Good luck with your running 😊🙏

[@jimatsydney]

I became an ultra runner through a bush walking club. As a group we went in a 100 km, 4100 m vert event, just prepared to walk it. I ran 20 km and walked 80 and I was hooked. I agree, you need to change your mind set for ultra trail events.

[@keithkool]

A quote that I think is perfect for running ultra marathons: "Your mental resilience is your greatest asset. Cultivate a mindset that thrives challenge, embraces discomfort and finds beauty in simplicity. Your thoughts can be a wellspring of strength. Celebrate small victories for they are the stepping stones to survival and success."

[@ChrisBranch]

What a wonderful quote, thank you 😊🙏

[@michaellane1316]

I am not officially a trail runner, yet. Starting this journey at 68. Have been a casual road cyclist over the past 25 and throughout my life but decided to give it a go. Was a sprinter in school, many moons ago. As a cyclist I have learned pace. Now getting my walks in and starting the what I refer to as the shuffle, still staying with this pace concept. Goals will be to do maybe a short distant trail, 5k, 10k & upper the ladder to possibly a 30k next year. Also kind of giving up on the road somewhat and venturing over to gravel. Mountain biking doesn't interest me. Bike packing distances and trail utras are on the horizon. I say that to myself each day I'm out, it's better to be out than in so take care of the frame that carries you.

[@ChrisBranch]

I love this! I'm sure you will get there. I much prefer trail to road too; there's something about covering distance out in nature that is good for the soul. Good luck on the journey ☺️🙏

[@Kelly_Ben]

The man who convinced me to try ultras in my 40s was a volunteer at a race. He was in his early 70s, had only started running in his mid 60s, and now did mainly flatter ultras! Completely inspirational! Good luck on your journey!

[@TrailRunnerReviews]

Love this, absolutely is the best approach. Most of my runs are that sort of “micro adventure” and it’s not about speed but time on my feet. Your head space is so important with these longer efforts I feel like. Cheers- Tom

[@ChrisBranch]

I completely agree, it sounds like you've got a great approach. Good luck on the journey ☺️🙏

[@dimitar297]

My weight is 180 pounds I've weighed my pecker too it's an extra 2 lbs dry.

[@piotrrostow]

I am still on my 5k… but this video got me thinking lol 😊

[@ChrisBranch]

Bit by bit, you'll get there if you want to 🙏☺️

[@seedmole]

Once I came across the advice of "walk the uphills, run the flats, jog the downs" it all clicked for me. Just because it's a run doesn't mean you aren't allowed to walk some portions. Maximizing distance and pace (including number of runs/hikes) means you're gonna want to walk a whole lot.

[@ChrisBranch]

Absolutely, this is so true 🙏

[@wyliemacbean1157]

Hello, you have such a beautifully calm voice to listen to and I enjoyed listening. I have run most of my life and I am now slowly increasing my distance for more long distances after surviving Chronic myeloid leukaemia ( CML ). I hope you continue to tell your running stories. Have a great day, cheers. Wylie

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much for the comment, and I wish you the best in increasing your distance in running. Happy training 😊🙏

[@Glasshousebc]

Spot on about that marathon runner… your following words were perfect.

[@r-pupz7032]

Got my first 50k ultra booked for next May, I'm so scared but so excited! Videos like this are so helpful, thank you :)

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! You will love it! I was terrified before my first 50k too, but the fear is good; it helps you stick to the plan and get the training done. Best of luck with it! 🙏

[@joppedecuyper6061]

I’m also doing my first one in may! Good luck!

[@sudstahgaming]

50k lol bloody hell

[@eckph]

15 hours until I'm on the start line of my first ever ultra. This video was exactly what I needed. Thanks!

[@ChrisBranch]

Good luck!!! (Or maybe you've started already? I hope it went well!). I wish you the best with it 😊🙏

[@eckph]

@@ChrisBranch Thanks - I finished it! Couldn‘t be happier! 😄

[@earthgirdler23]

Been thinking about this recently, I feel like (as fairly fit 42 year old) I could pretty much walk indefinitely (not that I necessarily could, but I _feel_ like I could). And I feel like really easy pace running is as easy as, or easier than walking. Me and a mate have been talking about just getting out in a Saturday and seeing how far we can go if we stay at that steady "run forever" pace.

[@ChrisBranch]

Haha I love that run forever feeling! ... although I've found it doesn't last forever 🤔😂 It's wonderful while it lasts though 😊🙏

[@combinasion8829]

Thanks for creating genuine content rather than some click bait, this is very useful information!

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much, I appreciate that 😊🙏

[@bev9708]

GREAT video Chris, so happy to find your channel and subscribe!! The "adventure attitude" you mention I found to be by far the most important factor to start truly pushing my distances and volumes into the lowest ultra distances now. There is SO much inspiration here on youtube too, it's changed my life ... for me it was especially Kieran from Manvmiles when he ran the entire length of the Danube River summer 2022, following him totally changed my attitude. THANKS Chris!!!!

[@ChrisBranch]

I love this! And I'm so inspired by these people too. KZbin has genuinely helped me in my life, and I hope to share a little bit of that positivity back ☺️🙏

[@ChrisShawarma]

Excellent video, currently training for my first 100 miles ultra and I've been running at 7minutes per k lately. I can run half marathons at around 1h40m but now they're at 2h15m 😱 It felt so weird in the beginning and yet somehow also liberating to not put speed as a priority.

[@ChrisBranch]

Love this! And I agree, letting go of pace is soooo liberating. It's a wonderful way to train, and far more sustainable. Best of luck with it 😊🙏

[@sonicboyPT]

The point of slowing down is so true. I know runners way faster and stronger than me, but some won't even dream of doing more than a marathon and find it amazing that I can run 300k ultras. I keep telling them they could do it much better than me, but they can't imagine it. However, there is something to patience and spiritual perseverance.

[@ChrisBranch]

"Patience and spiritual perseverance" ... love it 😊🙏

[@MadJugglerTV]

Thank you, Chris. The video is just what I needed and was looking for. I ran the Eugene Marathon 10 years ago with only 4 months of training. I weighed 255 lbs and finished the race in 6:54. Finishing is all I cared about and I enjoyed the whole experience. Now, I am 48 and am signing up for the Mckenzie River Trail Run that will take place this June. I've lost 20 lbs and am looking forward to enjoying this race as well. I am not a consistent runner, but I walk a lot and work in construction, so I am a pretty active person. You, reminding me of this proper mindset, is what I needed to remember how to do this. Thanks :)

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! Your active lifestyle will definitely help you. Just add a little bit of interval slow running to those long walks, then gradually shift the ratio, and you're an ultrarunner! Good luck on the journey 😊🙏

[@kimmcb8037]

This is brilliant, thank you. I've run a few marathons, but now have a place for the Lakeland 50 next July - you've given me hope that I can do it!

[@ChrisBranch]

Ooh amazing! I've heard that race has such a good vibe, it's definitely on my bucket list. Good luck with the training 😊🙏

[@adamk99]

My friend your voice is so soothing I need you on a podcast or audio book on my long runs

[@ChrisBranch]

Haha you're not the first to say something like that 😂, thank you. And I would love to have a podcast one day, I just have no time in my week. It'll happen in the next few years though for sure ☺️

[@stefanciubuca2179]

The simplest advice is the most amazing and effective. Thank you, Chris!

[@garybutler1484]

This is a great video. I've been running ultras for years and this is one of the best summaries of why we do it and how we train. I dread my Wednesday night club run, where we do intervals or hill repeats much more than I do my weekly long run that can be up to 30 or 40 miles.

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much, I appreciate that ☺️🙏

[@JamesAlberts]

Just started a plan to get into Ultra running after years away from cardio!

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! You'll get there, it's a fun journey ☺️🙏

[@SD-eu7ht]

If only other professionals spoke with the same clarity. Great one

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much 😊🙏

[@user-bs1lj3kv7h]

Great video! I turned to ultras after a few years of triathlons (5 full Ironmans) and it is a totally different adventure! I worked my way up in distance and earlier this year did my first 200 miler. I will celebrate my 55th birthday shortly by running my 10th ultra of 100 miles or more and I feel the healthiest ever. It is 100% achievable for everyone if you take it slow, follow a good training plan or approach, eat great and enjoy the journey. Life is for living !

[@ChrisBranch]

You're an inspiration! Thanks so much for the comment. I really hope to be continuing my journey well into my 50's and beyond. I'm only 38, but I also feel the best I've ever felt. I've just hit my first hundred-miler a few weeks ago. At first, I was thinking, 'never again!' but I'm already planning my next one 🤦‍♂️😂 200-miles though? That's incredible! Thanks again for the comment 🙏

[@Rickles]

Running my first marathon tomorrow and I needed this pep talk. Thank you!

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! Best of luck tomorrow! ☺️🙏

[@Kelly_Ben]

How'd it go!?

[@nicmarlow6388]

ultras are as much a mental game as they are a physical one. I try not to look at the whole picture and panic myself by saying "right it's a 50km today" rather I break it down into bite sized chunks. 1) Start and get to the first aid station. 2) Check your body, wee, fuel and hydrate. 3) Off again to the next aid station. And so on until the end. Towards the end it might be, okay, 3 more parkruns to go but it's a good way of not being overwhelmed by the bigger distance. Make sure to take in the views and enjoy the experience. Whilst I'm absolutely not fast in any of my runs, the ones I tend to enjoy the most are the longer trail runs as it's all about having a good time. :)

[@ChrisBranch]

I discovered in my last ultra how important this is, as I DNF'd because of a poor mental game. I'm going to make a video about this soon, because it's such an important aspect of ultrarunning. Thanks for the comment 😊🙏

[@Williamottelucas]

I have to agree with everything you say. I took part in three 24-hour 'races' in my 50s and mostly walked 143 kilometres in my best effort (barefoot) around a 400-metre track.

[@ChrisBranch]

Wow, that's incredible! I'm a big fan of barefoot training and I wear minimal shoes to work and the gym, but I treat myself to a bit of cushion in running and wear Altra. To cover that distance completely barefoot shows incredible resilience 💪☺️🙏

[@martynnelson18]

Thanks for your part in my journey Chris. I always thought running was boring. Whenever I tried it I’d go too quickly and feel dizzy and sick at the other end. Partly enjoyable but mainly torture. I started running over 25km a month ago and ran a 30km last weekend, with a 50km race planned for June. Slow and steady makes the whole process digestible and so much more enjoyable! I’m aiming for a 100km race next year and looking forward to seeing what is truly possible.

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! What a wonderful journey you're on. Best of luck with your training :)

[@pmplt]

Just watched this after long run. Very positive vibes and good info! keep up the good videos coming!

[@ChrisBranch]

Love it! I hope you enjoyed your run ☺️🙏

[@dhotz8474]

I just started signing up for events last year. Not for a specific goal, but for the experience. 5ks and so forth have given me a sense of direction with my running and accomplishment. Slowly realizing that my body is more capable than I expected. I ran my first 20 mile trail race last month. It felt like a sheer force of will to keep moving, but I finished. Definitely more technical than what I was practicing. I have goal next year to run a 100k trail race. Something I have to work up to.

[@hoopeverlasting]

Fantastic video. Im a running again (after many years) newbie and ...ultra excited for Ultras. ! Great explanation thank you! 👍👍👍

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much! Focus on consistency and you'll get to ultra distance before you know it ☺️🙏

[@danny85brown]

Hi Chris and fellow osteo! I thought I’d leave you a reply when I found out you were an osteopath too. I watch countless ultra videos on here but yours seem to resonate with me. I’m running my first Lake District ultra in 2 weeks and these videos have been a great source of information. I’m finding my training runs much more enjoyable implementing your advice. Keep up the good work! 😊

[@ChrisBranch]

Hey fellow osteo! And I wish you the best with your ultra. I've never raced in the Lakes, but I really want to. Hopefully next year. I'm so pleased my videos have helped too 😊🙏

[@barrieduerden479]

Brilliant video - very wise.. On thing that I always tell people is that for ‘short races’ you have too deal with pain, on ultras you have to deal with suffering. They are very different….

[@ChrisBranch]

I love this! I say that shorter races are a brilliant test of fitness, but an ultra is a true test of your spirit. I'm addicted to them 😂

[@thermalpants]

I'm loving the vibe of your channel Chris. I'm an on again off again jogger. Hitting the half century this year my goal was to get a 'decent' 5k time. But endurance distances have always appealed. So now I am planning on doing a 10k this year, maybe even a half marathon if I can find one towards the end of the year. Next year hopefully I can do my first ultra. There's a long way to go but hey, one foot in front of the other and all that.

[@ChrisBranch]

This is brilliant! I have no doubt you will get there 😊🙏

[@robsmith7503]

What a great video !!! I can relate to this as someone who has recently returned to running after a long break caused by 2 bouts of Covid. I'm currently doing 3 runs a week. A 10K and a 5K ( Parkrun ) both of which I find tough as I'm racing my previous times. I also do a longer, slower run of at least 20K usually on forest trails and I find this much easier to do and recover from. It is exactly as you describe it in the video ... a less intense and more bearable discomfort. I have signed up for my first 50K Ultra "Race to the King" so I am curious to see how the training goes as the distances get longer. Thanks for a great video Chris.

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! I really hope your training goes well for your first 50k. It sounds like you're off to a great start already ☺️🙏

[@jimmoses6617]

I ran my 1st 50 miler Sept 30. I tested positive for covid 2 days before.

[@WHSMrDeBoer]

Thank you for this. Could not agree more. Just finished my first 50K a month ago and took this same attitude with me. Endurance NOT performance. Had a blast!

[@ChrisBranch]

Absolutely! It's a different approach ☺️

[@VB-ph5zo]

I appreciate the pointers. Been trying to raise my mileage, so this will help a ton.

[@ChrisBranch]

I hope it helps! 😊🙏

[@Bob-qm6cy]

I wish I came across your channel last year when I was first starting off. Im yet to run my first ultra but Im gradually getting there and with the help and advice from your channel Chris, Im gaining a better understanding of what's required and what to expect, Thank you :)

[@ChrisBranch]

Sorry for the slow reply, this slipped through the net! Best of luck getting into ultras ☺️🙏

[@Fitwithjordylissenberg]

Thanks for this! Great video! It’s all about being in the moment🤟

[@Freebird65]

Doing my first 50 mi run this November 🤞 at age 59 I run over 50 full marathons and countless half marathons. Definitely difficult to wrap your head around running slower but feels so much better on the body. Thanks for the great video, advice and tips.

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! With your background, you'll nail the 50-miler 💪 And yes, I love how ultra running feels on the body. It's counterintuitive, but running further is much nicer for the body 😊

[@youtubeperson1856]

This is all 100% spot on. The hardest bit is reminding yourself how slow you actually need to run on race day

[@ChrisBranch]

Absolutely! ☺️🙏

[@vainnq]

Thanks for your video Very interesting and helpful👍

[@ChrisBranch]

I'm so pleased it helped 🙏😊

[@vainnq]

@ChrisBranch 👍

[@RobertManlove]

Great video Chris. I am deffo someone who goes out and smashes 5/10km and it does feel hard on the body.

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks Rob. And yes, slowing down for some of the runs can be a game changer 😊

[@tobin1677]

Kind of in the same vein, I have been training for a half marathon as of late, following a plan on my garmin watch, and last weekend it set me out on a 15km easy run. I ended up running though the mountains and along a local river on a neat little loop I found and it was one of the most enjoyable runs I have gone on in a hot minute (though the climbs still sucked)

[@ChrisBranch]

It sounds lovely! ... and yes, climbs always suck 😂

[@matthewpaulden9604]

Just discovered your videos and really find them really motivating.Hoping to use some of thoughts and training methods to up my mileage for 2023 with a view on my first Ultra 2025 ..keep them coming 💪👍

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! Best of luck training for your first ultra. It's so exciting building up the distance, and getting ready for that first race. I have plenty more videos in the pipeline that I hope will help 😊🙏

[@davidhurst100]

As an older runner, I've come to similar conclusions - this is good stuff, thanks for the video!

[@ChrisBranch]

It just feels right doesn’t it? 🤷‍♂️😂

[@neilwood8794]

I never thought it was hard…it’s how much you want it ❤️

[@ChrisBranch]

Love it ☺️👌

[@lukesmith6479]

Thanks for this video! I just did the Goggins challenge, but added 5 miles to make it 53. I wasnt sure if my body would hold up but like you said, just slowing it down while making sure your nutrition is on point makes a difference. Definitely looking forward to tackling some ultras in the future

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! And that is a true Goggins' principle of adding more than you need to do 👊 I did the Goggins Challenge a couple of years ago and really enjoyed it. I was pleased not to set my alarm and sleep through the night on that third night though 😂 Good luck with your training 😊🙏

[@lukesmith6479]

@@ChrisBranch Thank you sir! And completely agree about the lack of alarm :)

[@IreneVelasco-v6r]

I'm so glad I have found this video! I signed up for my first 50k in April 14, and mind you I finished my first marathon on March 3rd. And not only that I only started running in June of last year! And prior to that I was out of shape and wishy washy with my fitness. Never athletic. I'm 45 y/o female, I finished my marathon in 4 hours and 57 minutes with blisters and a knee injury. And I'm actually considering cancelling my ultra because I have knee pain. Today, I ran a half marathon at 13 minute a mile pace but my left knee hurst from time to time that I had to walk sometimes. But with your idea of slow running got me excited. I might not cancel my ultra!

[@ChrisBranch]

Best of luck with it, I'm sure with the right training you will be fine! And yes, going slower is the superpower that unlocks the distance (plus strength training, I have a few videos about that which might help you too). 😊🙏

[@IreneVelasco-v6r]

@@ChrisBranch thanks! I’ll check your other videos later! So grateful for your sharing helpful information!

[@chrisducker4066]

This is so so true. I used to dread my 10km runs for speed. Whereas training for my ultra marathon, I genuinely enjoy going out for a 30km+ run.

[@ChrisBranch]

Totally! ☺️🙏

[@ypure3859]

i like your calm demeanour. good vid

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much 🙏😊

[@lenkaontherun]

Oh wow, this was so helpful, thank you! I can't quite wrap my head around the distance, because the furthest I've ever run is a half marathon. Slowing down and walking a good chunk of it might actually be the solution. I'll try it!

[@ChrisBranch]

You'll love it. Set yourself a scary challenge, but go slow and enjoy the journey 😊🙏

[@lenkaontherun]

@@ChrisBranch I did! I would love to run one of the UTMB World Series races in the near future. It scares the … of me, but I know I’ll gradually get there. 💪🏻

[@ChrisBranch]

@@lenkaontherun You absolutely will! Best of luck with your training 🙏

[@justharkins9247]

Sunrise on the trail runs are the best and no photo can capture the experience.

[@ChrisBranch]

Absolutely, I love it 😊🙏

[@emmadudley228]

Great advice . I didn’t think I could run anymore as my calf’s pulled every-time I ran. Stuck to a program to strengthen my calf’s. Plus swimming and cycling . After the program was finished I went for a test run. Got loads of advice about taking it really slowly. Thought 3k be nice eventually did 10k and genuinely loved every second. My sights are on a 50k now .

[@ChrisBranch]

This is amazing! The slow running is often the piece of magic people need to overcome injury and build consistency. We need the strength and speed work too, of course, but only when put on top of the slow-running base. I'm sure you will get your first 50k! 😊🙏

[@MNP208]

I won a Chicago Marathon entry with only 11 weeks to train (I already had the base miles). I ran the first 14 miles and walked the rest. I couldn’t believe how good I felt the next day! Since I’m approaching 60, I think I’m going to do Galloway from now on!

[@ChrisBranch]

Love it! It's a great approach, and can help you have some big adventures, whilst looking after the body 😊🙏

[@chrissaguaro7793]

The difference between just finishing and finishing well. As a competative age grouper in the 100k-200mile distance, you can look at the starting crowd and know who actually trained hard and who the real competition is. Registration limits for races hasn't changed but the dnf list has over doubled since ultras got popular.

[@ChrisBranch]

I'm trying to figure out your point. You're upset that people aren't as elite as you? 🤔 For many, finishing _is_ finishing well. It teaches them something about themselves that they didn't know until they pushed to a new distance. Being competitive or not is totally irrelevant to most, myself included.

[@jameschu242]

Well said Chris Branch. For most people, finishing an ultra is about having the mental fortitude to persevere and their main competition is themselves. While its fine to be competitive and treat this as a race, the person above seems to have a big head and takes pleasure in being superior to offset his insecurities.

[@deanbaxter79]

Road v Trail is like chalk and cheese or as I explain it to non runners road is like cycling and trail is like mountain biking, very similar but require different equipment and techniques. Each compliments the other, I’ve made the mistake of only training in one discipline, as recently as last week I’d only been training on trails for an up coming 100k event, I did a trail run the other day but did the last half as a road tempo and it destroyed my legs, tempo shouldn’t wreck you but my legs had gotten accustomed to the silky smooth trails, I’ve now adjusted my training so each week I hit both surface types.

[@ChrisBranch]

This is a great point, and definitely a topic for another video. Last weekend I ran a hundred-miler around a 400m track, and that was WEIRD! I definitely ache in different places to usual due to the complete lack of variation. (This will be my next video out). Thanks for the comment 🙏

[@MathiasKarjalainen]

1st marathon coming up next week for me, after that im doing a 52k ultra. Setbacks made me doubt myself but i gotta keep pushing forward 💯

[@ChrisBranch]

I wish you the best of luck with them! You've got this 👊😊🙏

[@shifushay]

I love your videos! Thank you 🙏🙏🙏

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much, I'm glad they help 😊🙏

[@simondrury4291]

Just signed up to the Jurassic Coast Ultra! Thanks for the tips

[@ChrisBranch]

This race is definitely on my list! Best of luck with it 😊🙏

[@tweety2584]

I am currently training for a half marathon and am a bit scared because I think I habe to become faster. But your video reminds me to slow down, enjoy the moments and that it’s okay to stop for a picture or to smell the flowers. Two things I really enjoy on my usual 5-10k runs :)

[@ChrisBranch]

This is wonderful! That little shift in mindset will change everything. Best of luck with it 😊🙏

[@thorfinn1609]

The main thing why i love Ultras is the time your having, the people you meet, the food tou eat, and that you’re going learn a lot about yourselv. Rather a 60k unmarked trail ultra then a 10k om concrete.

[@edgetylcoa]

I did my first Ultra (100k) at 22, I am 26 now and I hope I will be one of those super fit 60 year olds! I really believe running is a lifetime sport, we are truly born to run!

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! When I was 22, running really far just wasn't a thing; it was such a niche subculture, and I didn't think it was possible for normal ol' me. Our understanding of the science and training has shifted so much in the last 20 years, and it will be so interesting to see how you go having all this knowledge at such a young age. Keep up the great work!

[@paulpurves484]

Thoroughly enjoyed this video.

[@ChrisBranch]

I'm so pleased 😊🙏

[@HaraldHofer]

Guys, try Backyard Ultras. I fell in love with them. Hard on the psyche, but a lot of fun. Especially if you want to run with your friends...

[@ChrisBranch]

I did one recently and covered the mindset aspect of it in this video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqeVY4KJr6dkebcsi=UcZqm3adBIbWOGxh Happy training :)

[@jackoreilly]

Completely agree with this!! A couple of years ago I thought I would never get to marathon distance... a couple of weeks ago I ran the length of Ireland(video on my channel in case anyone wants to watch it).

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! I'll have a watch 😊🙏

[@wallyevans4228]

Started using the Run Walk Method /timer Jeff Galloway. It’s working for me. Do my first 30 next year, getting ready (69 years). Also found that cooked foods prior to and especially during my long training runs slow me down.

[@ChrisBranch]

I've recommended so many of my patients to use Jeff Galloway! It's great to help increase distance, and I use it in the context of getting my patients back to running after injury. Best of luck with your training for the 30 ☺️🙏

[@ovenkloven]

I do Ultras for over 20 years now. My advice for all rookies in this sport is: first work on your running style. If you be able to run like floatless with an absolute minimum of arm gestures, hopping etc.then its the right style. And next is, it doesnt matter how long the distance is at the end. Only think forward to the next checkpoint. Any i.diot can run a marathon. It needs a special kind of .i.diot to run an ultra marathon😂❤

[@ChrisBranch]

😂 I've definitely turned into that special kind of idiot 🤦‍♂️😂

[@skysurferboy]

Very encouraging video! Thanks!

[@ChrisBranch]

You're most welcome 😊🙏

[@paulsummerly8203]

A really interesting video thank you it's opened my eyes about ultra running.

[@ChrisBranch]

I'm so pleased ☺️🙏

[@ActiveIdeas]

Fantastic video as always! Love this style of content 🔥

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much 😊🙏

[@ActiveIdeas]

@@ChrisBranch 👊🏽🔥

[@liamhockey9189]

I enjoy the variety of running fast road and ling on yhe trails. I think both compliment each other.

[@ChrisBranch]

Absolutely, I hope it didn't seem like I was suggesting one is better - I like both too! They're just different, and we need a different strategy for each 😊🙏

[@chrislooney8682]

I'd love it after watching all these trail runs and backyard ultras. I do more functional training, but after a shoulder and elbow injury, i started to run. I've just done my first 10k at 58 mins. Being just over a 100kg, it is genuinely hard on the joints. Will see as time goes on

[@ChrisBranch]

You'll get there, I'm sure. If you have the opportunity, go to the start line of a local ultra. You'll see there are all shapes and sizes there, and plenty of people 100kg+. It's truly inspiring, and it makes you realise it's possible 🙏

[@empyrionin]

I'm 100+kg and running 40-50+ km races at ultra marathon pace (8-9 min/km). It's definitely doable.

[@soccergalsara]

majority of this does not apply just to ultra running, the base of road runners is the same principle, but yes. and yes totally agree, the track intervals are way tougher than long distance. it;s a shame most people do not know that.

[@gedbretherton1597]

I'm just back from doing the Athens Marathon. It was my slowest but it was hot and hilly. I deliberately kept at a constant slower pace and enjoyed it. I've done two personal ultras with my running pal. 30 and 32 miles but really want to do some official ultras in 2024. Would be grateful for advice or the best to do. I live in the Northwest and am happy to travel. Cheers.

[@ChrisBranch]

Gosh, there are so many! My advice is to do a bit of research, and you will have a 'calling' to one. For me, my first one was UTS and when I saw their promo vid I just _knew_ I had to do it! There is a new one that has had great reviews in the Lake District called 13 Valleys (it has shorter distances too), maybe start there 🙏😊

[@isabellabeckett-smith1473]

Great video! You always put our brilliant content! Can you do a video of what and how you eat during a week of 50 mile training? There’s many videos on race day eating but not much on training eating…I find it hard to get enough calories during the training.

[@ChrisBranch]

Thank you , that's so kind to say 🙏 And yes, that's a great idea! It will definitely come from the perspective of 'this is what _I_ do, and I'm not an expert', but I would be very happy to share what I eat in a week. It's taken me a long time to dial in my nutrition, and I am still trying to improve it. I have come up with a few strategies to help me eat more because I struggle with that too. I'll add this video to the list, and thank you for the idea 😊🙏

[@BobbySteelanus]

I have started running, working on my 5k time.. I can only do about 29 mins now. I recently tried to walk 100k (62 miles) in 24 hours. It took about 23 hours total, walked most of it. Felt like i was actually going to die lol. The idea of doing 52 miles in just 10 hours is insane. Well done

[@ChrisBranch]

I always say to my patients that aiming for a sub-30 5k is the first step. That proves you have a solid foundation that you can build from, and you can now do anything if you are consistent and train smart. Getting to that sub-30 is a big deal, so you're doing really well! Best of luck with your training 😊🙏

[@BobbySteelanus]

@@ChrisBranch thanks mate:-)

[@JonathanHopwood]

That is exactly me. The farthest I've run is 10miles. And it nearly killed me (this was some time ago)... and I never thought I could do a marathon or further because I couldn't imagine me going that fast that far. But I recently got turned on to trail running! Last weekend I did a trail 10k (6.6 haha) and I just had fun, walked when I had to, ran when I could. I did it in 1 hour 28 minutes, and it was actually pretty easy! The whole run fast thing was the furthest from my mind. I'm 58, and my goal is to run a 100 miler before I turn 60!

[@ChrisBranch]

Love this! Best of luck with your training. Focus on consistency and you'll get that hundred miler 👌

[@Yeoldviolence]

Just did my first “ultra” at a relay for life event, 103km after only ever running for 10km straight before, granted I slept for 5 hours. But I think I did pretty good at 23 hours at a running pace of 6.30 per km whilst on my feet.

[@ChrisBranch]

This is amazing! It just goes to show what the human body is capable of; we all have more in the tank than we think, and this is why I love ultrarunning - it proves that to us each time we race 😊🙏

[@Vokunos]

you had me with "you need to eat" a lot. no problem man haha

[@ChrisBranch]

😂

[@pandaprophetable]

I wanted to quit my last ultra after some pain in my hamstring going downhill. But you can’t just quit out in the wild! On my way to the aid station legs felt better and decided to finish it. Ultras are a wild ride lol

[@ChrisBranch]

Ultrarunning teaches you that the body and nervous system are weird! I've had exactly the same; being convinced I will drop out because of an injury, then forgetting about it by the next aid station and never feeling it again 🤷‍♂️ it's so bizarre 😂

[@t0maz.m]

Love the title: "...WANT you to know", insted of "DONT WANT you to know". As trail running is such a lovely and open community❤

[@ChrisBranch]

I totally agree 😊🙏

[@Mirror9911]

Your videos are very well done. Inspirative and well explained. After watching I feel a need to go run 😊 Could you do a video focused more on hydratation and nutrition during your long runs? How much you drink per hour, what are foods which works for you? Thabk you

[@ChrisBranch]

Thank you so much, I appreciate that. And yes, I have learned a lot about this over the last couple of years, and I used to get it very wrong! That's a great topic for a video 👍

[@mattcarr3798]

Great advice thanks 👍

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much 😊🙏

[@stevenlennie]

The eating part is where I fall down. Completed my first 50km earlier in the year and was so nervous I couldn’t face breakfast or eat anything during the race. I completed it but it wasn’t pleasant.

[@ChrisBranch]

Ooh, I feel for you! That must have been tough, but on the flip side, if you can sort your nutrition out, you will feel SO much better next time :)

[@sarahengland1843]

It may be that the ultra runners in their 60s are runners because they have no joint pain. Maybe it's not the running that prevents the joint pain. Im a 59 year old swimmer and rower partly because my knees are not in good enough shape to run.

[@ChrisBranch]

The research seems to suggest it's the other way round - running helps prevent knee pain - but there are also strong genetic factors at play. It's an unfortunate fact of nature that some people are predisposed to get knee degeneration, even if they follow all the best practices. And yes, in situations like this it is great to take up other modalities which are kinder to the knees 🙏

[@Casual_BackPacking]

If you don't use it ull lose it

[@leahgarrett5201]

I’m an osteopath and just signed up for my first 50k! Love this

[@ChrisBranch]

Amazing! I wish you the very best with your training and the race 😊🙏

[@trailsandbeers]

It's crazy but the longer the race the easier it is... I now do 100km as training races and my main races are 200 miles plus in mountains. i can't imagine doing a marathon on roads. i personally don't eat much in races, I prefer to be fat adapted.

[@ChrisBranch]

Wow, 200-milers! 🤯 I've just done my first hundred, and I'm amazed at how well I've recovered - it definitely felt better on my body than some of the shorter races I've done. When it comes to nutrition, I tell people to 'pick one; carbs or fats'. I definitely see the value in becoming fat adapted and I have tried it, I just found it didn't work for me and I've gone the carb route, so I have to keep fueling. Thanks for the comment ☺️🙏

[@colleendevere7491]

@trailsandbeers I am carnivore and preparing for an ultra. What do you eat while racing and training? I was thinking a big meal the night before, breakfast before the race and I will be fine, but plan to take some jerky. Thoughts?

[@trailsandbeers]

@@colleendevere7491 Eating normally the night before and breakfast (a few hours before the start) should be good, as carnivore you will be well fat adapted and probably good on just water and jerky during the race unless you are trying to go really fast. If it's a long race and/or in hot weather you can also add electrolytes to your water. Did you already try some long runs on just water? Jerky and cheese would be my choices if I wanted to be strict carnivore and eat during a race, but be careful what is in the Jerky they are not all just plain beef and salt. I don't think that eating carbs is a problem during races as long as you stay hydrated and don't take on too much that you get sick, but if you want to stay carnivore then you would need to get the carbs from milk, eggs, cheese. I did see a video recently about Mike McKnight winning the Cocodona 250 mile drinking lots of milk. I sometimes eat carnivore for a few weeks or a month, but usually I am not so strict and try to eat lowish carbs avoiding sugar, processed grains and seed oils. Training for up to 3 hours I run/hike fasted and just drink water. Anything longer I do add some foods like cheese, nuts, chocolate, beer. Before races I fast for at least 24 hours and then take black coffee and 50g carbs (usually a croissant) 3 hours before the start. During the race I try to not eat much in the first 3-4 hours and then just eat what/when I feel like from the aid stations but still avoiding too much sugar and processed foods.

[@littlepigywigy]

Nice. Thanks.

[@ChrisBranch]

You're most welcome 😊🙏

[@MAKEITSO86]

Slow down and enjoy. Yes. I am not a runner. I ride my bike 100km per week and do a lot of hiking. I cant even run 10km. Last year i finished my first Ultra-Hike 100km in 24h. After my third finish this year, i am training for a 171km 48h hike next year. [Goal is 36h] It is incredible what the body of a "normal guy" can do with training

[@ChrisBranch]

Wow! That's an incredible event, well done! And I totally agree with you; I'm as surprised as anyone that I finish these races and that the body is capable of it 😊🙏

[@zoggaming88]

I'd love to run longer distances but everytime I push more than 8km, my knees' tendonitis creeps in really fast :( It's a shame beacause I still feel quite fresh on the cardio side.

[@ChrisBranch]

Sorry to hear that, that is a shame. Have you seen a professional about it? I treat things like this often in my clinic, and it's usually a strength issue, or occasionally a technique issue. It may also have contributing factors from other joints like the feet or hips. A good therapist local to you who has an interest in running should be able to help you figure it out.

[@criticalthinker7822]

"Dose makes the medicine, we drip that in." Nice line!

[@ChrisBranch]

You've got me thinking now, I actually use this phrase in many contexts, it's often true! 😊🙏

[@MintRobin]

3:50 I feel for this mistake literally now. I'm currently sitting at my PC recovering from an awful 30minute run. Whilst running I was thinking "why am I flagging so much?" then I realised "oh yeah, the only food I've had since the 1 hour hills interval training was a single banana" The good news about bananas is they stop you feeling hungry, the bad news is that without hunger you can forget to eat.

[@ChrisBranch]

Totally! We all learn these lessons the hard way 😂

[@bloodyfrets]

Long distance running is a journey where you can be happy and free, it is the most powerful thing.

[@ChrisBranch]

I totally agree 😊🙏

[@vincentcoulombe8790]

Hi Chris, I discovery your channel recently. Thank your for your content and tips ! I'm starting at running at 27, did my first 5k recently and I'm hooked for more. I'll do my first 21k next spring. I'd like to run a marathon in 2 years and maybe ultras after. Maybe you mentioned it in a previous video that I didn't watch yet but how long did it took you to get to run ultras?

[@ChrisBranch]

Thanks so much! And it sounds like you have a great and sustainable plan. I'll make a video about this in early January - I think it will help people map out their 2024. I went from doing no running to my first ultra in 6 months, BUT I was doing lots of calisthenics and HIIT prior to that, so I wasn't unfit. I had also been a keen runner a couple of years earlier, so I could get back into it quickly. In my video I'll map out different timelines depending on fitness starting points. Your timeline sounds great and would really set you up for the future with a solid foundation, but I reckon you could bring a marathon/ultra in sooner than 2 years with the right approach ☺️🙏