ultrarunner

An ultrarunner is an athlete who competes in ultramarathons or ultrarunning events, defined by distances longer than a marathon (over 42.195 kilometers or 26.219 miles). Ultramarathons may be single-day races such as 50 kilometers, 100 kilometers, or 100 miles, as well as multi-day stage races that cover several days of running. Courses commonly emphasize trail terrain, elevation, and navigation, though some events are on roads or a mix of surfaces.

Typical ultrarunning formats include standardized distance events and stage races. Distance events test endurance over many hours, while stage races require multiple days of running with limited rest. Races occur worldwide, from desert and mountain courses to forest trails, often with harsh conditions and remote course sections that require self-sufficiency.

Training for ultrarunning emphasizes high weekly mileage, long back-to-back training runs, strength work, and careful nutrition and hydration planning. Many athletes train for several months to years to adapt to energy management, heat or cold exposure, and fatigue. Competition strategies focus on pacing, fueling, and sleep management during multi-day events.

Equipment typically includes lightweight trail footwear, hydration systems, and nutrition supplies carried by athletes or at aid stations. Some races permit trekking poles, headlamps, and minimal other gear. Safety considerations include heat illness, hyponatremia, injuries from overuse or terrain, and navigation in poorly marked courses.

Prominent ultrarunners include Kilian Jornet and Courtney Dauwalter, widely recognized for top finishes and course performances, and Scott Jurek, a multiple Western States winner. The sport continues to grow across genders and ages, with a wide range of events and participation levels.