| What it is | Running beyond marathon distance (26.2 mi) |
| Common distances | 50K, 50-mile, 100K, 100-mile |
| Emphasis | Endurance, pacing, fueling, resilience |
| Key tactics | Power hiking, aid stations, crew |
Ultrarunning (ultramarathon running) is running any distance longer than a standard marathon (26.2 miles / 42.2 km), most often on trails and in the mountains. Common distances include 50K, 50-mile, 100K, and 100-mile races, plus timed events. It emphasizes endurance, pacing, fueling, and mental resilience over speed, with strategies like power hiking and aid stations central to finishing.
Beyond the marathon
The long end of trail running; the benchmark is the 100-miler, run between aid stations while avoiding the bonk.
Frequently asked questions
What is ultrarunning?
Ultrarunning is running races or distances longer than a marathon (26.2 miles). It's most associated with trail and mountain running, where events range from 50 kilometers up to 100 miles and beyond. Success depends on endurance, smart pacing, consistent fueling and hydration, and mental toughness rather than pure speed.
What are common ultramarathon distances?
The classic distances are 50K (about 31 miles), 50 miles, 100K (about 62 miles), and 100 miles, along with timed events (such as 6-, 12-, or 24-hour races) and multi-day stage races. The 50K is the common entry point, while the 100-miler is a benchmark goal for many ultrarunners.
How do you train for an ultra?
Ultra training builds a large aerobic base with long runs and lots of time on feet, includes hill work and power hiking practice, dials in race-day fueling and hydration, and uses periodization with a taper before the event. Practicing on terrain similar to the race and rehearsing aid-station and gear strategies are also key.
Sources
- Ultrarunning — American Trail Running Association
- Endurance events — The Mountaineers