Tips for Ultra Trail Run Starter

Have you ever participate in a trail run? If you haven’t, then this is your chance to get some benefits from our runner, Nahsuhah, who’s just done her first trail run at Route68. Route68 is a race course that took place on the 10th April where runners passed through remote area of Gombak, Selangor with an elevation of 1,900 m. How awesome is that?

Nahsuhah at Route68

Nahsuhah at Route68

Ow well..

Why Ultra Run?

First of all, why did she join the Route68? She joined it because she was suggested by her friend after she did the Pink50 run (Pink50 is a 50km loop run). According to her, it was slightly different. It has only one loop as to compared to the Pink50 that has 17 loops all together. The track was cooler for there are lots of trees to shade under. New experience comes with new knowledge, a reason for you to join the trail run.

 

This hard core girl loves the Ultra run for she can manage her time on completing the distance. She has done a 50km ultra run within 9 hours. Ultra is the medium that can challenge you beyond the limit. Compared to the Full Marathon (FM), Nahsuhah prefers Ultra than FM. Most likely because of the limited time that you need to complete within 8 hours.

 

According to Nahsuhah’s experience, you have to be wise on how to manage your time and energy. For her, she prefers to run as much as she can before the weather gets hot. Still, you need not follow every of her pace. You can just maintain your comfy speed instead in order to sustain your energy throughout the 9 hours.

 

So, if you never try ultra, you should add it to your wish list. Don’t limit yourself and try to do a proper training (e.g. LSD at least 21km) whenever you’re free. This prepares you mentally and physically. Schedule your time and make sure you carb-load and hydrate yourself enough during that week. Extra tips: if you never try run with hydration bag, you should start training with it so you will be used to it during the event.

 

What do you carry with you at the run?

A hydration bag, energy gel or bar, reflective vest, blinker, headlamp, mobile phone. All these are basically the mandatory items. Do take salt tablet with you to prevent cramp for long hour run.

Mandatory Gear List Provided

Mandatory Gear List Provided by Route68 Organiser

One more advice for newbies. You should know that it’s not necessary to put all the effort to run all the way. You might want to walk and run alternatively, that too also will helps you to finish in cut off time. One more thing, try brisk walk (11 min/km) when there is elevation of the road and run (7min/km) at your comfy pace when downhill. That might help, InsyaAllah.

Talking about elevation, make sure you study and know the route, elevation and key stations allocated the run. Keep visuals of them on your phone if the organiser provides them. Remember, your safety is important and you need to stay safe throughout the run.

Lastly don’t forget to smile while running as it gives you a better and confident feeling. Never let the stress overtake your enjoyment during run.

 

Credits : Nahsuhah for sharing her experience, Mandatory Gear list by Route68 organiser, Picture as watermark