Ultra training isn’t just about mileage—it’s about managing everything else in life, too. The long runs, the back-to-backs, the strength work. The sleep, the nutrition, the mental game. And sometimes, it’s about making hard choices.
Say you’ve got a big weekend event lined up—something that matters. A camp, a retreat, a gathering where you feel seen and supported. But it lands right at the peak of your training for a 100-miler. Do you go? Do you stick to the plan? Or is there a way to do both?
This is where things get real. Because training for an ultra isn't just about what your legs can do. It's about balancing the life happening outside of the miles.
What’s at Stake?
On one hand, you’ve put in the work. You’ve built a solid training cycle, and peak weeks aren’t the time to slack. Travel, late nights, different food, and extra time on your feet could throw off recovery. You know consistency is key, and shifting things around isn’t always easy.
But on the other hand, running is supposed to enhance your life—not make you miss out on it. If this event is a rare opportunity to connect, to be in a space where you feel truly at home, maybe that’s just as important as the next long run.
The Decision Comes Down to This
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Does the event recharge or drain you? Some people thrive in social settings, others need solitude to reset. If this event will leave you mentally exhausted, it could impact your training more than missing a single workout.
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Will you be able to adjust your plan? Can you shift long runs earlier? Fit in miles at the event? Or will missing key workouts impact your race confidence?
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What’s the bigger priority right now? If showing up for this event supports your mental health and identity in a way that running never could, that matters. If skipping it means avoiding unnecessary stress and staying locked into your goals, that matters too.
There’s no one right answer. There’s only what serves you best.
You Don’t Have to Choose Alone
If you’re struggling with these kinds of decisions—how to balance peak training with the rest of your life—I get it. I coach runners through these moments, helping them structure training plans that make space for life, not just miles. Because in the end, it’s not just about getting to the start line. It’s about making sure you’re whole when you get there.
Need help structuring your ultra training in a way that fits your life? Let’s work together.