Confessions of a Crazy Ultra Runner

It’s no great secret that ultra runners are a different breed. Most of us tend to think much differently, act differently, and have some downright weirdo habits (LOL). Allow me to give you a glimpse into the mind of a crazy ultra runner.

What Are My Confessions of being a CRAZY Runner?

Confessions of a Crazy Ultra Runner. Have you ever wondered what makes ultra runners tick? Read this post from a mom of 4 who has completed over 20 marathons and ultras.

Insights into the mind of a crazy ultra runner. Photo Credit: Campbell Media

I Calculate the Price Per Mile to Justify Running Longer Races

When I look at race prices I break the price down per mile to judge how good of a value it is.  A half marathon may be $65, and a 50 miler may be $80, but in my mind the 50 miler is the better value, because it’s only $1.60 per mile. Don’t even get me started on the topic of $30 5ks! 😉

Cuts & Scars are Badges of Honor

Ultra runners talk about our scrapes and scars like most runners talk about race medals. Check this brutally wicked scar I earned over the weekend! I tripped over a log, fell down a hill, busted my knee open, and landed in a freezing cold creek. It was awesome!” The same holds true with blisters, bruised or missing toenails, chaffing, or pretty much any other injury you can think of. Our scars are conversation starters that help tell the tale of our running adventures.

“You’re Insane” is One of My Favorite Compliments

I’ve always thought that being normal was overrated, so I take it as a compliment when people tell me I’m insane. I don’t want to be “good enough.” I want to challenge myself to do things that I once thought were impossible. This is my idea of personal growth, and I’m not ashamed of it one bit! Besides, as Walt Disney said, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.”

Walt Disney had a pretty cool quote that I often remind myself of: He said, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible” #goals #ultra

Running in Sub-zero Temperatures is Somehow Easier Than Running on a Treadmill

I run through pretty much any weather conditions nature can throw at me. I will gladly layer up, and head outside in sub-zero temps to get my run in. However, I cringe at the thought of having to run for more than 10 minutes on a treadmill. There’s a reason it’s referred to as a dreadmill!

I Eat Real Food While Racing

While most road runners prefer gels, chews, and sports drinks, ultra runners usually rely heavily on real food during races. This is partly out of necessity, because when you are running for hours on end you need more nutrients than a gel can provide. It’s also partly a matter of taste. Most people can only stomach so many simple sugars before the thought of ingesting one more gel makes their stomach turn. I have personally eaten a wide variety of food during ultras. Pretzels, cookies, grapes, orange slices, potato soup, grilled cheese sandwiches….I’ve eaten them all mid-race! Eating real foods helps keep my energy levels stable, plus it tastes really good! Sometimes just knowing that there will be lots of yummy food at the next aid station provides enough motivation to keep going when the miles get tough.

Yes, I Use Marathons as Training Runs

When I’m ramping up my miles to get ready for an ultra I will often sign up for a few marathons that I plan to run at my long training run pace. It’s nice to have the company of other runners when you know you are going to be running for hours, and I can rely more on the fluid stations rather than having to carry tons of water with me. I will race 2-3 marathons each year, but the rest are used as training runs.

Running Makes Me a Better Mom

Running is a great stress reliever. No matter how stressed I’m feeling, or how irrational my toddler is acting, going for a run can always help boost my mood, and help me deal with my kids shenanigans with patience. I typically only train for an hour a day during the workweek, and then do my long runs on the weekend. This gives me the break I need, while still allowing me to have time to spend with my family. I also firmly believe that we need to model the qualities that we want our children to embrace. My husband and I have always told our kids that they can accomplish any task they set their minds to if they work hard. I can’t think of a better way to model this for them, than to let them see me set big goals, and then work hard to achieve them. My kids have kept me motivated as I pursue my 40 by 40 goal, because I know that I am setting an example for them. So, there you have it…the inner workings of the mind of an ultra runner. If you are an ultra runner, do you have anything to add?

Hey there, you amazing runner!

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