Whether you're drawn to the challenge and peacefulness of running through the woods or simply want to test your endurance and mental fortitude over a longer distance, racing an ultramarathon provides a unique opportunity to explore new horizons in the running world.
In this guide, we'll delve into the different ultramarathon distances and types and what makes each one unique. Here are the key points we'll cover:
- Understanding Ultramarathons: Explore what defines an ultramarathon and the diversity within the sport.
- Typical Ultra Distances: Learn about common distances.
- Unique Ultra Events: Discover races that break the mold, including multi-day events and backyard ultras.
- Differences from Marathons: Understand how ultramarathons differ from traditional road races in terms of terrain, elevation, and pacing.
By the end of this article, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the ultramarathon landscape, and you might just find yourself inspired to tackle your first ultra event.
What is an Ultramarathon?
An ultramarathon is any running event longer than a standard marathon (26.2 miles or 42.2 kilometers).
Unlike the fixed distance of marathons, half marathons, 10ks, and 5ks, the ultramarathon category encompasses a wide variety of race types and distances, ranging from 50 kilometers to well over 100 miles. This diversity means that ultramarathons can take many forms, from single-day trail races to multi-day endurance challenges.
The ultramarathon community is known for its inclusivity and spirit of adventure. Each ultra race offers a unique experience, often displaying stunning scenery shaped by the natural landscapes and environments where they take place. Racing and training for an ultramarathon involve lots of variety, less emphasis on speed, and opportunities to play in the woods. For many runners who have trained for road marathons, this can be a very welcome mental and physical change.
Ultramarathon running coach Cody Moore says many people only think about the distance when they think about ultras, and they forget about the terrain aspect that's unique:
"We're talking trails, gravel roads, dirt roads, generally speaking, that typify an ultra marathon. And often times, one race will have a mix of surfaces. So maybe there's some asphalt in there, some single track trail, and even some fire roads or logging roads. For the most part, Ultras are done on natural surfaces."
Typical Ultramarathon Distances
Ultramarathons come in various standard distances, each offering its own set of challenges and experiences. Here are some of the most common ultramarathon distances:
50K Ultra Marathons
The 50 kilometer (50K) ultramarathon is a popular starting point for beginner ultra runners. At approximately 31 miles, the 50K offers a manageable yet challenging introduction to the world of ultrarunning.
Because it's only 8 kilometers (or 5 miles) longer than a typical marathon, the 50K distance is often seen as an achievable goal for experienced runners who want to go a little longer than a marathon. For example, in 2021, Des Linden, a professional marathoner and winner of the Boston Marathon, set a World Record over the 50K distance in her first race over 26.2 miles.
While many 50K races are held on trails, offering scenic and rugged courses, some take place on roads. For instance, the Marine Corps Marathon 50K takes place at the same time and on many of the same roads as the popular Marine Corps Marathon.
50 Miles
The 50-mile ultramarathon is the next step up from the 50K distance, challenging runners to almost double their marathon distance. This distance tests both physical endurance and mental toughness, as runners often face significant elevation changes and diverse terrain.
Popular 50-mile races include the American River 50 in California and the **JFK 50 Mile** in Washington, DC.
100 Kilometer Ultramarathons
For those looking to race longer than 50 miles, the 100K (62 miles) ultramarathon is the next step up in distance.
Some popular 100K races include the Lavaredo Ultra Trail in Italy, known for its breathtaking views of the Dolomites, and the Tarawera Ultramarathon in New Zealand, which takes runners through lush forests and along beautiful lakeshores.
100 Miles
The 100-mile ultramarathon is an iconic distance in the ultra running world, symbolizing the ultimate test of endurance and perseverance.
Iconic 100-mile races include the Western States Endurance Run in California, known for its challenging terrain and rich history; the Leadville Trail 100 race, which takes place at high altitude; and the Hardrock 100 in Colorado, which takes runners through the San Juan Mountains with over 33,000 feet of elevation gain. Completing a 100-mile race is a monumental achievement.
Unique Ultra Running Races
Beyond the typical ultramarathon distances, there are lots of ultramarathons that are especially unique in distance and format.
Longer Races
Some ultramarathons extend beyond the 100-mile mark, offering extreme challenges that test the boundaries of human endurance. These races often take place in harsh environments, such as deserts or mountains.
One such extra-long race, which has some of the most demanding conditions imaginable, is the Badwater 135, which covers 135 miles (217 kilometers) from Death Valley, California, to Mount Whitney. This race, which is run during the heat of summer in July, starts below sea level and climbs to 8,000 feet above sea level.
Multi-day Events
Multi-stage ultramarathons challenge runners to cover vast distances over several days, often requiring them to manage sleep, nutrition, and recovery strategically.
The Marathon des Sables is one of the most famous multi-day ultras. It is a six-day, 156-mile race through the Sahara Desert. Participants carry their supplies and navigate harsh desert conditions to reach the finish line.
Backyard Races
Backyard ultras, or "last man standing" races, are unique events where runners complete a loop of a specific distance every hour until only one runner remains. These races challenge participants to manage their pace, rest, and strategy effectively, often leading to dramatic and unexpected outcomes.
The Big Dog's Backyard Ultra, organized by the legendary race director Laz Lake, is the most famous backyard race. Runners compete in a 4.167-mile loop each hour, with the event continuing until only one runner remains. This format emphasizes mental resilience and strategic thinking, offering a distinctive challenge within the ultra running community.
Time-Based Races
Time-based ultramarathons, such as 12-hour and 24-hour races, challenge runners to cover as much distance as possible within a set time frame.
The Desert Solstice Track Invitational in Arizona is a renowned 24-hour race where elite runners attempt to set distance records on a track. These races encourage participants to push their limits and explore the boundaries of their endurance, offering a unique and rewarding experience.
How is an Ultramarathon Different From a Marathon Distance Race?
Ultramarathons differ from traditional road races in several key ways. While the increased mileage is the most obvious difference, other factors such as terrain, elevation, and pacing contribute to the distinct nature of ultramarathons.
Terrain
One of the most significant differences between ultramarathons and marathons is the terrain. While marathons typically take place on paved roads or city streets, ultramarathons are often held on trails, offering runners an entirely different experience.
Running on trails presents unique challenges, including tricky, technical sections with rocks, roots, and uneven surfaces. Runners must develop agility and adaptability to handle varying conditions and focus on the trail ahead.
Elevation
Many ultramarathons include significant elevation gain, adding another layer of complexity to the race.
Many popular road marathons, like the Chicago and London Marathons, are designed for speed. The courses are flat or downhill, with many participants aiming to set personal records. Ultramarathons, on the other hand, are often designed to be difficult. The off-road courses may include steep hills and thousands of feet of elevation gain.
Famous ultra aces like the Hardrock 100 and the UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc) are renowned for their challenging elevation profiles. To succeed in these races, an ultrarunner should include plenty of hill running and strength training in their training plan.
Much Slower Paces
Another major difference between road marathons and ultramarathons is the speed and focus on pace. In a road marathon, many runners have a very specific goal pace, and every second counts. Ultramarathon races, on the other hand, emphasize time or pace much less. The extended distances, varied terrain, and elevation changes usually lead to overall slower paces in ultras, with some miles much faster than others, depending on the terrain.
Successful ultra runners tend to run more by perceived effort. Rather than chasing paces, they maintain a sustainable effort so that they can manage the terrain, keep going, and get to the end before reaching exhaustion.
For new ultrarunners accustomed to road racing, adjusting to slower paces in their training runs can be challenging. It requires a shift in mindset, prioritizing endurance and energy management over speed. In time, slower running will feel much more natural.
Wrap Up
Ultramarathons offer an exciting world of running beyond the marathon distance, inviting seasoned road runners to explore new challenges and experiences. With varied distances, unique race formats, and the opportunity to connect with nature, ultramarathons inspire runners to push their limits and discover new horizons.
As we've explored in this guide, ultramarathons are characterized by:
- Diverse Distances: From 50K races to 100 miles and beyond, ultras offer a range of challenges.
- Different Race Formats: Including multi-day events, backyard ultras, and time-based races.
- Distinctive Terrain and Elevation: Most ultramarathons take place on trails, offering varied and challenging courses.
- Different Pacing Strategies: Slower paces emphasize endurance and energy management over speed.
Whether you're intrigued by the idea of tackling a new distance or eager to experience the camaraderie and adventure of trail running, ultramarathons offer an unparalleled opportunity to expand your running journey. Embrace the challenge, and you'll likely find yourself falling in love with ultrarunning.
And if you need a training plan to help you get fully prepared for the big event, try a free training plan on the MOTTIV training app! It's the only app in the world designed to help regular people accomplish extraordinary things in endurance sports!For runners who have conquered a full marathon and are seeking a new challenge, ultramarathons offer an exciting next step. But exactly how long is an ultra marathon? Ultramarathon races are always longer than the traditional 26.2 miles of a marathon, venturing into diverse and often rugged terrains and pushing both physical and mental limits.
Article fact checked by Ultramarathon Running Coach Cody Moore.
