Pre-raceday preparation routine for an ultramarathon

It’s 28th March 2024 and today I signed up for my first 100-km (plus) race! Exciting times as I take on a new challenge.

And as I have a new sports project, it’s time to start writing again here :)

I’ve decided to make what I’ll call a ‘perennial’ posts: one that I’ll try to update as it evolves. I’ve alluded to my gear I’ve used for trail running events in this post in 2018 - I’m going to re-write this for 2024 soon enough. this post will be what I’m capturing for my pre-race day preparation.

So, taking from this podcast, the current plan is:

  • short, slow run (3km? 5km?). Very low heart rate (zone 2, 180 minus my age sort of pace).

  • mobility / plyometrics

  • Good food

  • Meditation

  • Charge all my electronics

  • Prepare my race gear

  • Re-review the route and ensure it’s saved onto my running watch and phone

  • Eat more good food.

  • Nap

  • Sleep.

Anything else I need to add?

Neal McQuaid