How I Train for an Ultramarathon: 3 Essential Training Tips - Lee Grantham

Aug 13, 2025

Intro: This is a quick summary of How I Train for an Ultramarathon: 3 Essential Training Tips from Lee Grantham. It’s a great watch — we’re breaking it down so you can try the workout today. Be sure to check out the full video for all the details.

Key Points

Know the race specifics – distance, elevation profile, typical heat, altitude, and aid‑station spacing. Use this info to set realistic pacing and fueling targets before you even lace up.
Simulate race conditions early – run long sessions on terrain that matches the course (gradient, altitude, temperature) and practice the exact nutrition plan you’ll use on race day.
12‑week training structure – build a base, then focus on long uphill runs (20‑25 km and a 35 km “peak” run), add hill‑intervals on the course, and finish with a 10‑day taper that keeps the legs sharp with short hill repeats.

Workout Example

Long uphill run: 35 km on a course with an average 6–6.5 % grade, aiming for race‑pace effort. Fuel 80 g of carbohydrate per hour (e.g., water + sports drink + 2 gels) and practice drinking at the same aid‑station intervals you’ll have on race day.
Hill interval session (mid‑week): 3 × 10 min hill repeats on the same altitude, staying in Zone 3 (comfortably hard). Use the same hydration and carb strategy as the long run.

Practical Tips to Try Today

Map out your target race’s elevation and aid‑station locations; sketch a pacing plan that accounts for slower sections at higher altitude.
Schedule a 20 km run on a local hill that mimics the race gradient and practice drinking 250 ml every 30 min while consuming a gel.
During the next week, add a 10‑minute hill repeat (Zone 3) to keep the legs “zippy” as you approach taper.

Closing Note: Give these strategies a go, tweak the paces and fueling to fit your own needs in the Pacing app, and trust the plan you’ve built. You’ve got the roadmap—now go out and own your ultramarathon!