Hydration and Electrolytes
An evidence-based review of hydration and electrolytes for runners.
Back in 2010 I was deployed to California’s Sierra Nevada mountain range for cold weather and mountain warfare training with the US Marines. They would line us up before a run and have us drink water until one of us vomited to fully hydrate us. This is obviously no longer recommended, as overhydration is the major cause of hyponatremia (low sodium) which can be deadly.
Write comment (0 Comments)Heat Illness
An evidence-based review of heat illness for runners.
The average core body temperature is 37C (98.6F) with an optimum range around 35C to ~ 40C. If your body gets too hot (~ > 41C or 106F) then the biochemical pathways that keep your body running start shutting down resulting in seizures, coma or even death.
Write comment (0 Comments)It's (Almost) All In Your Head
How to prepare your mind to meet the challenges of a self-supported stage race
I had zero experience stage racing when I registered for the inaugural Grand to Grand Ultra in 2012, on assignment for Trail Runner magazine. I did, however, have a decent amount of experience as an ultra-distance trail runner, and through ultras I began to develop what’s arguably the most important trait to finish a self-supported stage race: mental toughness.
Write comment (0 Comments)Tips and Tricks from Wonder Woman Jax
Dialing in your gear for your self-supported stage race
Hey folks,
Wonder Woman Jax here with some tips about the daunting task of dialing in your race pack for a self-supported stage race. The thought of carrying everything you need to survive on your back for 7 days is scary. Let alone taking on 150-171 miles in rugged terrain and in aggressive temperatures.
Write comment (0 Comments)Five Ways to Know if a Stage Race Is for You
Back-to-back-to-back long runs plus camping make for an unforgettable ultra experience
Imagine this: Yesterday, you ran a marathon-length trail route that beat up your quads and blistered three toes. Today, you’re up for another 25 to 30 miles on an unfamiliar stretch of treacherous trail. Tomorrow, the real fun begins. Running with a loaded pack, in high altitude and extreme temperature, you’ll go another 50-some miles.
Write comment (0 Comments)Ten success secrets for stage racing
Preparing for a self-supported, multi-stage ultra-marathon can be overwhelming.
How many miles should I run each week during my training?
Should I walk during training?
When should I...
