Vert Seeker Hill Challenge

Vert Seeker Hill Challenge

Workout - Vert Seeker Hill Challenge

  • 12min @ 12'00''/km
  • 5.0km @ 10'00''/km
  • 12min @ 12'00''/km
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Quick summary

Ryan Clayton’s video How Fast Can I Climb 5,000 FT?? Making the best of what you have covers a climbing-focused running strategy you can use right away. The details are below. Refer to the full video to see it in action.

Key points

  • Vertical-focused training: instead of fixating on distance, Ryan picks a concrete elevation target. He aims for 5,000 ft of vertical gain in a single outing.
  • Flexible volume: if you’re sick or have a headache, cut the mileage but keep the climbing component.
  • Gear and fuel: Hoka Torrent 2 shoes (lightweight, grippy) work well. Take a gel with water roughly every 45 to 60 min to keep energy up.
  • Simple metrics: distance, total elevation gain, and time on effort. Example: 8.2 miles, 4,000 ft of vertical, in 2 h 40 min.
  • Adaptable pacing: drop rigid pace targets. Run at a steady, conversational effort (Zone 2) and focus on how you feel on the climbs.

Workout example

  1. Warm-up: easy jog for 5 to 10 min on flatter ground.
  2. Main set: 10 miles while accumulating 5,000 ft of vertical gain. Pick terrain with repeating hills or long climbs.
  3. Pacing: steady, sustainable rhythm (conversational, Zone 2). Climb with intent. Recover on descents.
  4. Fueling: gel and water roughly every 45 to 60 min.
  5. Cool-down: easy jog or walk for 5 to 10 min, stretch, and drink.

Adjust the mileage or elevation target to your fitness. The total vertical gain matters most.

Closing note

Give this workout a try and tailor the distance and elevation to your abilities. The Pacing app can help you track and refine the session.


References

Inspired by Ryan Clayton

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