The Runner's Trip: Run Long, Travel Far, Discover More
trail running and travel blog by Sarah Lavender Smith
I decided, while racing a 13.5-miler on Mount Diablo, that I love the mix of hill climbing, fast descents and steady running on the rollers that a course like this offers. It’s a reminder that longer isn’t always better. Every distance presents its own challenges.
If you approach a hard ultra ambivalent and less than prepared as I did, thinking, “Whatever, I’ll wing it!” then you’re setting yourself up for a painful race and a high likelihood of quitting. And that’s not fun, no matter how good the hot shower and beer feel post-DNF.
Training and race-day execution can make the difference between those who stiffly struggle and those who smoothly speed up toward the finish.
If you want to experience one of New Zealand’s best Great Walks—or just see some beautiful photographs—follow this guide for planning and hiking the Routeburn. We did the 20-miler in one unforgettable day.
I’m eager to get the word out about ways I’m helping others—maybe YOU?—learn about, prepare for and reach the finish line of the next Grand to Grand Ultra.
You don’t have to ski to love Mammoth Lakes in the winter. Year-round, it’s a great destination for running. Nike Trail Team member and Mammoth resident Tim Tollefson and I share some of our tips and favorite trails for visiting this Eastern Sierra town.
2014 was a breakthrough year for me, so I indulged in a year-in-review to highlight a lot of the best moments. Happy Past Year, Happy New Year!
The coach for Magdalena Boulet and other champion runners talks about his principles of training, the ingredients for success as a runner, and how to “do the least amount of work you can do to get the maximum benefit.”
My news at year’s end: I’m accepting coaching clients, and more! Here’s an update on my personal, professional and athletic plans—plus, a mini race report at the end.
“Preparation is the key to success,” a coach I used to train with liked to say. This post covers the mental, logistical and physical preparation that gave me a fast and fun first 100-miler.