Tackling Your First Ultramarathon: A Comprehensive Guide

19 December 2025

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and sign up for your first ultramarathon. First off—congrats! Seriously, that’s a big deal. You're not just dipping your toes into long-distance running; you're cannonballing into something that most people wouldn't even dream of. But hey, you're not most people, are you?

Whether you’re coming off your first marathon or just love testing your limits, the idea of going beyond 26.2 miles is both thrilling and daunting. This comprehensive guide is here to ease those nerves, answer your burning questions, and give you the lowdown on what it really takes to crush your first ultra.

Let’s lace up and dive in!

What Even Is an Ultramarathon?

First things first, let’s break it down. An ultramarathon (or ultra, as the cool kids call it) is any race longer than a marathon distance—yup, that means anything over 26.2 miles.

The Common Ultra Distances

- 50K (about 31 miles) — often considered the “gateway” ultra
- 50-miler
- 100K (62 miles)
- 100-miler — aka the Big Kahuna
- Timed races — 6, 12, 24 hours, and beyond

Each race has its own vibe, terrain, and challenges, so it’s important to choose wisely for your first one. More on that in a bit.

Why Run an Ultramarathon?

Why not, right? But seriously, people are drawn to ultras for different reasons. Some crave the mental challenge. Others want to escape the pavement and connect with nature. Some just want to see how far they can go.

Ultras aren’t just a physical feat—they’re a journey into your own badassery. You’ll laugh, cry, curse, and maybe hallucinate a little. But by the end, you’ll be a different human. Guaranteed.

Picking Your First Ultra Wisely

Not all ultras are created equal. Some are flat and fast, others are brutal mountain climbs with weather that can't decide between snow and scorching sun. For your first one, play it smart.

Consider These Factors:

- Distance – A 50K is a great starting point.
- Location – Choose a course close to home so travel doesn’t add extra stress.
- Terrain – Trail or road? Technical or smooth? Be honest with your experience level.
- Elevation – Huge climbs = extra strain.
- Aid Stations – More is better when you're starting out.

Look for beginner-friendly races with generous cut-off times. You want the experience to be challenging—but not soul-crushing.

Training for Your First Ultramarathon

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to run 50 miles every Sunday to train for an ultra. Most ultra training is about time on feet, consistency, and smart recovery.

Weekly Mileage

Expect to build up to 40–60 miles per week, depending on your race distance and goal. If that sounds nuts right now, relax—you’ll build there gradually.

Back-to-Back Long Runs

This is a game-changer. Running a long run on Saturday and another on Sunday helps train your body and brain to handle fatigue without risking a single monster run.

Terrain-Specific Training

If your ultra is on trails, train on trails. If it’s got a ton of hills, don’t shy away from climbing. Mimic race conditions as much as you can.

Don’t Forget Strength & Mobility

Running alone won’t cut it. Add in strength training (especially core and legs), mobility work, and stretching. Think of it as armor for your ultra body.

Fueling: The 4th Discipline

If running is like driving a car, fueling is the gas. You can’t run an ultra on good vibes alone.

Pre-Race Nutrition

Start fueling days before—not just the night before. Carb-up sensibly and hydrate well in the days leading to the race.

During-The-Race Fueling

Here’s a rule of thumb: Aim for 200-300 calories per hour. This can come from:

- Gels
- Energy bars
- Sports drinks
- Real food (PB&Js, bananas, candy, chips, etc.)

Train your gut like you train your legs. Practice fuel types and timing on long runs to avoid race-day disasters.

Hydration

Drink based on thirst, but have a plan. Know what your race offers at aid stations and what you’ll carry. Electrolyte management is crucial—too little or too much water can both wreck your day.

Gear Up Without Going Broke

Ultrarunning gear doesn’t need to drain your bank account, but some items are non-negotiables.

Running Shoes

Pick shoes that match your race terrain. Trail shoes for off-road, road shoes for pavement. Comfort trumps everything else.

Hydration Pack or Belt

You’ll need to carry fluids, food, and maybe a few supplies. Hydration packs are a popular choice and feel like a trusty sidekick on long runs.

Layers and Weather Protection

Weather can turn fast, especially in the mountains. Pack:

- Lightweight rain shell
- Hat or buff
- Gloves (even in spring or fall)

Socks and Anti-Chafing Supplies

Don’t even think about showing up without anti-chafe balm, and invest in blister-resistant socks. Nothing ends a race faster than destroyed feet.

Mental Game: It's Everything

Let’s not sugarcoat it: ultras are tough. Your legs will hurt, your stomach may rebel, and there will be moments where quitting seems easier. That’s where your mental game kicks in.

Expect the Lows

They will come. Ride them out. Keep moving, even if it’s a slow shuffle. Often, the highs come back if you stick it out.

Break It Into Pieces

Don’t think, “I have 50 miles left.” Think, “Just get to the next aid station.” Then rinse and repeat.

Find Your “Why”

When the going gets tough—and it will—your “why” will be your anchor. Maybe it’s for your kids, a personal milestone, or proving your own doubts wrong. Keep it close.

Race Day: What to Expect

The morning of your first ultra is a heady mix of nerves, excitement, and caffeine.

Get There Early

Allow plenty of time for check-in, gear setup, and a nervous bathroom visit (or three).

Go Out Slow—Slower Than That

Seriously, start like you’ve got 100 miles to go because your body will thank you later. Blow up early, and you’ll be crawling by mile 30.

Embrace the Aid Stations

Aid stations in ultras are like mini buffets meets NASCAR pit stops. Take what you need, talk to volunteers, and reset your mind.

Be Ready for Curveballs

Weather changes. Shoes rub. Stomachs rebel. Your plan may fly out the window—and that’s okay. Adaptability is your ultra superpower.

Post-Race Recovery

You did it! Time to bask in glory… and then realize your legs don’t work.

Hydrate and Refuel

As soon as you can, start sipping fluids and eat something—ideally a mix of protein, carbs, and fat. Your body’s in major repair mode.

Move (Gently)

Light walking, stretching, and maybe a massage will help speed recovery and reduce stiffness. Netflix marathons are okay too—just throw in some foam rolling.

Expect the Blues

It’s totally normal to feel a post-race emotional crash. You’ve just spent weeks (maybe months) training for this, and now it’s over. Take time to rest, reflect, and plan your next adventure.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Tackling your first ultramarathon is like embarking on a tale of adventure—complete with dragons (blisters), treasure (race medals), and the kind of self-discovery you can’t get from a weekend Netflix binge.

You don’t need to be the fastest, the fittest, or the most experienced. You just need guts, grit, and a relentless belief that you can keep moving forward.

So here’s your green light. Sign up. Saddle up. Show up. And when you cross that finish line? You’ll know—you’re part of something rare, raw, and beautifully human.

Happy trails, future ultrarunner. See you out there.