Wild Runner Coaching Blog

Training for an ultra marathon requires a different approach than road running. In this post, I explain why pace and distance fall short on the trails, and how using time on feet and Rate of Perceived Effort (RPE) can help you train more effectively, reduce injury risk, and build real endurance.

Training for an ultramarathon is not the same as training for a marathon. While both events demand endurance, ultras bring new challenges: slower paces, extended time on feet, variable terrain, and often thousands of metres of climbing. On trails, you’re not only running longer, but also adapting to technical footing, steep gradients, and weather that can change drastically throughout the day. With ultramarathons comes beautiful scenery. That means preparing for a 50k goes fa