It's a Runner's World

Not many sports present you with this dichotomy: I absolutely hate myself whilst I'm doing it but have never been prouder when it's over.

That's ultra running in a nutshell; an extremely psychological sport which requires massive determination and strength which finds you having a lot of arguments with yourself in your head.

Running an ultra-marathon is running any distance longer than the standard marathon distance (26.22 miles).

This may be done in teams with some orienteering involved or alone with a time challenge.

Most ultra-marathons are typically run off-road on trails which provide a more challenging surface.

This is straightforward enough but the only problem is that trails are more difficult to run than roads and so you have to get your fitness up to begin with as it is not just a happy escape from dreary road running.

To be a successful ultra-runner it is paramount that you get regular training and exercise to be able to cope with the gruelling distances and unforgiving terrain.

Trail running is an umbrella term for 'off-road' running.

Under this heading falls fell-running, cross-country running and ultra-running.

A 'fell' is simply a high hill or a mountain. Fell running is primarily concerned with running upwards; and extremely strenuous and at times almost impossible task.

Running these races is about accomplishment and achievement, not about coming first.

Martin Hall

This can be terribly difficult and so expect to be punished for it days afterwards.

Fell running is popular throughout the Peak and Lake Districts offering magnificent views in return for your efforts.

In the UK, one of the most challenging races is the 'Hardmoors 110', a single-stage race in which individuals must run 110 miles in under 36 hours.

This type of event takes much preparation and a great deal of mental fitness in addition to being hill-fit.

Of course specific equipment is needed to ensure that these feats of endurance are completed safely.

Hydration and good nutrition is paramount to successful ultra-running, backpacks that include a 'bladder' are best for distributing the weight of several litres of water without putting pressure on the back and strong, supportive, yet lightweight shoes are imperative.

The market leader for both backpacks and shoes is the trail running company 'Inov-8'.

Martin Hall, a keen ultra-runner I spoke to, told me that "running these races is about accomplishment and achievement, not about coming first".

It may be best for beginners to lead up to ultra-running with some practise on short distances and gentle trails but as a sport it is free, liberating and a very good workout.

For more information on running and races go to RunnersWorld.co.uk