Wild Deer Ultra

What are ultra events?

Given the name “ultra”, you will typically see ultra events go the extra distance. A normal road marathon is 42.1km (26 miles), whilst ultra events are longer. This can be anything from 53km to over 80km!

Some consider ultra events to be a fantastic way to not only test yourself but also meet other people with the same goals as you. They are a great way to join a friendly community of runners, while being surrounded by beautiful scenery.

In an ultra event, participants confront not only the course, but also the boundaries of their own endurance and mental strength.

Why choose Wild Deer Events?

Based in the North East of England, we love to make the most of the natural beauty that surrounds us. Whether it be the Northumberland coast or one of the region’s stunning country parks, we often plan events that enable participants to take in beautiful scenery on our doorstep.

We have a small, dedicated team of passionate individuals who have ample experience within the fitness industry. Our expert team strategically choose different locations for our events, meaning each event offers a fresh challenge for all participants.

With this, we offer a range of events to ensure that people of all fitness levels can join in. Per event, we offer flexible distances, meaning you can tackle half the distance if you are a beginner to ultra events.

How to prepare for an ultra event

Even if you are a seasoned marathon runner, preparation is key for an event as intense as an ultra.

Like training for any event, it is important not to do too much at once – you don’t want to risk injury or exhaustion. This means doing the following:

Progression

To minimise the risk of injury, we would advise creating a plan to stagger your training and build endurance. This means starting off slowly, and then gradually over time building up your training by 10%. It can help to set different milestones and giving yourself enough time to work your way up to your goal distance. For example, if you are already competent at running a comfortable 10km, set yourself the goal to reach 15km after 2 months of training.

Remembering that an ultra event can be a lot to take on all at once and is gruelling on the body. So, it could be useful to set yourself similar goals for the day of the event. For instance, you could break down the race in your mind, tackling it in chunks, whether that be walking intermittently to give yourself a break between the longer stretches you plan to run, or taking longer rests at the strategically placed aid stations.

Training

As an event approaches, it is important you leave enough time to train on a regular basis, whilst also maintaining your set progression plan. We would usually recommend allowing at least six months to prepare for an ultra event, although training for more than six months may be required, depending on your current fitness levels and running experience.

Preparing for an ultra event involves meticulous planning, not just for physical and mental readiness, but also for safety. Consider potential challenges like extreme weather, difficult terrain, and the risk of injury. Training with a friend can be beneficial, providing both motivation and a buddy system for enhanced safety during training and the event itself.

Essential ultra events gear

When doing any form of physical activity, it is so important to use the correct equipment to minimise the risk of injury. When doing an ultra event, it is essential that you are prepared with the following:

Footwear

With ultra events being held outdoors, you will have to navigate different technical terrain which is often uneven and slippery. The right type of trainers will give you good grip and support.

There are several types of trainers that runners can choose from depending on the surface they plan to run on. This is particularly important to consider if you are doing an ultra-trail event.

Consider maximising comfort with a cushioned shoe that is stable, grippy and waterproof.

The break-in period for running shoes is crucial, especially before an ultra. Shoes fresh out of the box haven’t yet adapted to the individual foot, potentially leading to blisters, pain, and injuries. We recommend wearing your chosen ultra shoes for multiple long runs on the lead up to the event.

Vests

For ultramarathoners, hydration and nutrition are non-negotiable. Running vests are a common sight on the trails, offering a crucial way to carry these essentials. Beyond basic storage, running vests are designed for carrying gels, snacks, and, most importantly, fluids. Hydration vests, ranging from 5 litres for shorter ultras to 20 litres or more for extreme distances, are a staple in the ultra-world, allowing runners to remain self-sufficient on the course.

Waterproofs and layers

Pack waterproofs and layers for your ultramarathon, regardless of the season. A lightweight, breathable waterproof jacket and pants are essential for protection against unexpected weather changes. A moisture-wicking base layer and an insulating mid-layer will allow you to regulate your temperature effectively. Being prepared for all conditions is crucial for both comfort and safety during long-distance events.

Top tip: Always test your equipment beforehand. For starters, you must ensure your trainers are the best fit for you and offer comfort for the whole distance. Plus, make sure you are satisfied with your vest and that it offers enough storage.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

By following the guidelines set out by our expert team, you will be all set to fully focus on the event at hand, knowing that you are fully equipped with the essentials and prepared for all eventualities.

Feeling inspired?

We have a range of ultra events on offer in a variety of locations around the North East. So, whether you are a seasoned marathon runner and fancy your next challenge or you’re new to ultras and looking for something more thrilling than a road run or a session on the treadmill, this is your opportunity to get involved!

With events throughout the year and spanning multiple stunning locations, you’ll find something to inspire you. Check out our calendar for upcoming races and start planning your ultra adventure!

New to ultras? Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and offer support every step of the way.

VIEW ULTRA EVENTS