RUNNING WITH POLES | Training for TDS UTMB vlog series | Ep 2 | Run4Adventure - Run4Adventure

Aug 13, 2025

Intro

This is a quick summary of RUNNING WITH POLES | Training for TDS UTMB vlog series | Ep 2 from Run4Adventure. 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

The session replicates the TDS elevation profile: roughly 1 000 m of gain per 10 mi (about 3 500 ft over 8.5 mi in this workout).
The run is built around short, steep out‑and‑back loops (≈1 mile each) with a focus on steady effort, low heart‑rate power hiking uphill and running downhill to condition the quads.
Running poles are highlighted as essential for mountainous ultras: they off‑load the quads on climbs, improve posture, add stability on descents, and reduce lower‑back fatigue.
Pole‑specific tips: choose the right length (elbow ≈90° when pole tip touches ground), get a comfortable grip, and practice extensively before race day.

Workout Example

Warm‑up: 10‑15 min easy jog on flat ground

Repeat the following loop 8‑9 times (≈1 mi per loop):
  • Power‑hike the steep ascent using poles (keep HR low, stay steady)
  • Run the steep descent (focus on quick, controlled downhill leg turnover)
  • No long flat recovery – transition directly to the next climb

Goal: ~3 500 ft (≈1 070 m) total elevation gain & loss in ~2.5 h

Cool‑down: 10 min easy jog + stretching

Adjust the number of repeats or distance to match your own fitness level. Use the Pacing app to set a target heart‑rate zone or effort level instead of exact paces, since the terrain dictates speed.

Practical Pole Tips

Fit – Fixed‑length (Z‑type) poles around 125 cm work well for a 6‑ft runner; adjust until your elbow forms a ~90° angle at the tip.
Grip – Go for contoured foam grips; they prevent blisters on long ultra days.
Material – Carbon is light and stiff but can snap; aluminium is heavier but bends rather than breaks. Choose what feels best for you.
Practice – Incorporate poles on every hill repeat in training; treat them as an extension of your arms.

Closing Note

Give this hill‑repeat + pole workout a try on your next steep trail, and feel free to tweak the repeats or distance to suit your own pace using the Pacing app. Running poles can make those brutal climbs and descents feel a lot more manageable – happy training, and don’t forget to watch the full Run4Adventure video for the inspiring scenery and deeper insights!