INTO THE MEADOW! Ascent training commences! - Seth James DeMoor

Aug 13, 2025

Intro

This is a quick summary of INTO THE MEADOW! Ascent training commences from Seth James DeMoor. 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

Altitude & vertical training is the focus: a 13‑mile (21 km) run with ~4,400 ft (1,300 m) of vertical gain/loss on Grey’s Peak, the author’s go‑to training ground for the Pikes Peak ascent.
Consistency is key – even after an injury, running 2‑3 mi a few times a week beats doing nothing; aim for 12,000 ft of elevation gain twice a week for long‑term adaptation.
Fuel strategy: try the Spring‑Hill energy gels (mango, banana, honey, etc.) early in long runs; carry about 12 oz of water for this type of run.
Training structure: run 90 % of the distance, hike the remaining 10 % when terrain or snow demands it.

Workout Example

Distance: 13 mi (21 km) total
Elevation: ~4,400 ft (1,300 m) gain + loss
Pacing: Run at a comfortable endurance pace; the exact pace isn’t specified, so use your usual long‑run effort.
Breakdown:
1. Warm‑up on flat trail for 5‑10 min.
2. Run 90 % of the distance (≈12 mi) on mixed terrain (grass, trail, occasional snow).
3. Hike the remaining 10 % (≈1 mi) when the trail gets steep or snowy.
4. Cool‑down with easy jog/walk for 5‑10 min.
Frequency: Aim for two such vertical sessions per week, accumulating ~12,000 ft of elevation gain each week.
Fuel: Take a Spring‑Hill energy gel (or similar carbohydrate‑rich snack) early in the run; carry 12 oz water.

Practical Tips

Start with short, low‑volume runs (2‑3 mi, 2‑3 times a week) if you’re returning from injury; build up to longer vertical sessions.
Listen to your body—if you need to hike or slow down, do so. Consistency beats intensity.
Use the altitude keyword as a mental cue: “altitude” = focus on elevation gain and staying hydrated.
Keep a log (e.g., in the Pacing app) and adjust paces based on your current fitness.

Closing Note

Give this altitude‑focused run a try, adjust the distances and elevation to match your current fitness, and track everything in the Pacing app. You’ve got this—let’s keep climbing and enjoy the climb! 🚀