How Running Ultramarathons Changed My Life

[@runningcafe1]

Has running ultramarathons changed your life too? Let me know how. 😊 All of the gear I use for running, and to make my videos, is linked in the description. 👟 🎥

[@markg99]

Nicely summed up, Craig. Going straight for the 100km race was a bold move!

[@runningcafe1]

Thanks, Mark. Guess it was a bold move in hindsight! Furthest I'd ever ran prior to the 100km was 30 miles or so, was so glad to have crossed the line in the end

[@tworunningbrooms]

Superb insights into what trail running brings to your life. Paradoxically what draws you and others to it is what leads us to conclude it isn't for us. When we run we want to focus on the running. The pace judgement. The racing strategy. The course. What we didn't like was the navigation, high importance of fuelling and the necessity of the right kit at the right time. For me (John) 10k is the sweet spot for the perfect blend of ingredients. But we do enjoy the content of many ultra runners including yourself.

[@runningcafe1]

Thanks guys, really appreciate it. I totally get trail and ultra running isn't everyone's cup of tea. I ran for 5 years before I gave it a crack, and I always thought I'd never like it but something clicked during my first ultra. I do think trail running and classic road running are two different sports. For the record, I still love road running and half marathons will always be my first love with running. 10ks are fantastic, they're a definite sweet spot for speed and fun. Agree with you there. Cheers John, appreciated 🙏

[@timeonfeet]

Great to hear your thoughts on what ultras have given you Craig. So much I can identify with here and completely agree on the strategy point. It's definitely a puzzle when it comes to ultras and trying to balance all the different aspects to ensure a positive outcome. Super video mate, have a good Christmas 🎄👍

[@runningcafe1]

Thanks Ben, really appreciate that. 100% agree about your points. So many things to think about and problem solve during the ultramarathon for getting to that finish line. Have a great Xmas to you and Carla matey

[@danangell-collins8663]

Hugely helpful video! Tackling this one myself this year 😅

[@avinashbhogun]

Gosh it seems like yesterday you ran your first ultra. Time flies!

[@runningcafe1]

It does indeed my friend!!

[@conradburdekin722]

Changed my life for sure. Ran my first ever one early November (6 hour, 5 laps in Knaresborough). Ran my second one late November. (6 hours, 8 shorter laps in Shipley Country Park, Nottingham). Absolutely loved both of them. My next one will be a similar event early April, and then... It's the London 2 Brighton for me! The one that you started with! I'm really excited (and nervous) for it. Would you recommend road shoes if it's been warm and dry Craig, or trail shoes whatever the weather? And any top tips for that specific race? I really can't wait! Loved watching your videos this last year or so and looking forward to seeing your adventures in 2024

[@runningcafe1]

Thanks for sharing your experience, Conrad. You've made great progress and I have no doubt that you will be able to smash London 2 Brighton and finish strong. When I did L2B, I had no trail shoes and ran it in (from memory) my Mizuno road shoes and they worked absolutely fine on the day. That being said, I'd make sure that - if you use road shoes - they have a good amount of tread still as you may appreciate a bit more grip in some sections. Also, if the weather is terrible (not likely, but it could happen) then I'd 100% say a good pair of trail shoes. My personal favourite all rounder is the Hoka Speedgoat, but everyone has their own preference. In terms of top tips, none in particular but as it's in May and it can get hot make sure you stay on top of hydration. I remember being very warm that day. Thanks so much for your support this year Conrad, really appreciated having you along for the journey!

[@conradburdekin722]

@@runningcafe1 my pleasure, I’ve enjoyed coming along for the ride. And thanks for your advice re: London 2 Brighton. I’m really hoping it’s not too warm as I struggle in the heat, but appreciate it might be. Have to wait and see!