40-Mile Ultra Training

[Deleted User]

Does anyone out there have a training program (or any advise) for a 40-mile ultra?

I'm planning to run the Connemara Ultra in March as my first ultra, but I need to know how to change my training from being marathon orientated to an ultra.

I can find lots of info and advise for 50 - 60 milers, but nothing for newbies trying to do a 40 miler. Any information on training, tapering, what food to eat en-route would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Dubai Dave

have a look at the two oceans web site as thats 36 miles

[Deleted User]

Its basically more emphasis on longer even paced running, you don't have to go over the top on weekly mileage or longer long runs really.
If you can, choose hilly routes cos these are harder to run anyway and will make your legs stonger, and not as big of a step up as you may think.

[Deleted User]

Id have thought that training for a 50 miler would be the same as training for a 40 miler anyway.

Extreme Muzzy

Could be talking outta my botty here(parp), but wouldn't training for a 50 miler make running a 40 easier? Something left in the old legs for the end?

[Deleted User]

I hadn't noticed that Jason, of course it would.
First time I ran 40 miles was when I was training for London to Brighton the first time.
As long as you're comfortable with the marathon distance then 40 miles shouldn't be too hard as long as you're sensible about pace and nutrition (I can jog a marathon on empty but not an ultra-well, maybe a 50k!!)