Vert Seeker Hill Challenge
Workout - Vert Seeker Hill Challenge
- 12min @ 12'00''/km
- 5.0km @ 10'00''/km
- 12min @ 12'00''/km
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
- Warm-up: easy jog for 5 to 10 min on flatter ground.
- Main set: 10 miles while accumulating 5,000 ft of vertical gain. Pick terrain with repeating hills or long climbs.
- Pacing: steady, sustainable rhythm (conversational, Zone 2). Climb with intent. Recover on descents.
- Fueling: gel and water roughly every 45 to 60 min.
- 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.