Have you ever dreamed of following a training plan to run a marathon in 3:15? Are you wondering what makes an effective marathon training plan capable of helping you reach this ambitious goal? Do you need a personalized training plan that fits your level and schedule?

Then you are in exactly the right place. In this article, we will share a 3:15 marathon training plan built around specific preparation, progressive training, and recovery.

What You Need to Run a 3:15 Marathon

Running a marathon in 3:15 is an ambitious goal that requires a few key prerequisites. Following a training plan is not enough. You also need a solid base level of fitness, running experience, and sufficient vVO2max.

Let’s take a closer look at these criteria and how to assess them.

Base Fitness

To run a 3:15 marathon, you should be able to run for at least 1 hour 45 minutes comfortably and without pain. This means having a strong easy run base, or the ability to sustain a moderate effort for a long period.

Easy run fitness is developed through long runs at an intensity between 65% and 75% of your maximum heart rate, or HRmax. HRmax can be estimated by subtracting your age from 220. For example, for a 40-year-old runner, HRmax is 180 beats per minute, so easy run intensity falls between 117 and 135 bpm.

Running Experience

To run a marathon in 3:15, you also need some running experience, especially over shorter race distances. Ideally, you should have completed at least two or three half marathons, helping you become familiar with pacing, fueling, hydration, and recovery.

A half marathon time of 1:30 or faster is also recommended. This is equivalent to a pace of 14 km/h, or 4:17 min/km. It shows that you have the speed required to sustain 13 km/h, or 4:37 min/km, over the marathon distance.

vVO2max Level

Finally, running a 3:15 marathon requires a good vVO2max level. This is the maximum speed you can reach while fully using your aerobic system. vVO2max is an indicator of a runner’s aerobic power and influences their ability to sustain faster paces.

vVO2max can be measured with a track or treadmill test, progressively increasing your speed until exhaustion. To run a marathon in 3:15, your vVO2max should be at least 18 to 18.5 km/h.

Calculate your vVO2max, endurance level, and estimated time for your next marathon with our calculator.

12-Week and 8-Week Marathon Training Plans

If you meet the requirements to target a 3:15 marathon, it is time to discover an example of a 3:15 marathon training plan. We offer a four-session-per-week plan over eight weeks, as well as a three-session-per-week plan over 12 weeks.

These plans include vVO2max workouts, easy runs, and long runs.

Here is an extract from your 12-week 3:15 marathon training plan, available below:

3:15 Marathon Training Plan: 12 Weeks, 3 Sessions per Week

3:15 Marathon Training Plan: 8 Weeks, 4 Sessions per Week

Nutrition and Hydration

Nutrition and hydration are key factors in marathon success. They influence your energy, recovery, and performance.

Here are a few rules to follow:

• Gradually increase your carbohydrate intake during the three weeks before the marathon to top up your glycogen stores. Aim for around 7 to 10 g of carbohydrates per kilogram of body weight per day, choosing low- to moderate-glycemic-index sources such as pasta, rice, potatoes, fruit, bread, and more.
• Hydrate regularly throughout the day with water, tea, herbal tea, fruit juice, or sports drinks. Avoid alcohol, coffee, and soda, as they can have a diuretic and dehydrating effect.
• The day before the marathon, eat a carbohydrate-rich meal that is not too large or too high in fat to avoid digestive issues. For example, you could have pasta with tomato sauce, chicken, a green salad, yogurt, and fruit purée. Drink plenty of water, but not so much that you dilute your electrolytes.
• On marathon morning, have a light, easy-to-digest breakfast around three hours before the start. For example, you could eat toast with honey, a banana, orange juice, and coffee. Drink a little water, but not too much to avoid needing the bathroom during the race.
• During the marathon, drink regularly at aid stations, around 150 to 200 ml every 5 km, to replace fluid losses. Alternate between water and sports drinks, which provide carbohydrates and electrolytes. Also take gels or energy bars, aiming for around 30 to 60 g of carbohydrates per hour, to maintain blood glucose levels and delay fatigue.

Pacing Strategy for a 3:15 Marathon

Managing your pace is essential for marathon success. It means running at the right pace for your goal, fitness level, and race-day conditions. To help you, here is our negative split strategy.

Tips for managing your pace:

• Know your marathon pace: This is the pace you aim to run based on your goal and vVO2max. For example, for a 3:15 goal, marathon pace is 13 km/h, or 4:37 min/km. Use a pace calculator to determine your target pace. You can also estimate your pace with the Yasso workout. If you decide to adopt a negative split strategy, prepare your split times in advance.
• Practice your pace in training: Include long interval workouts and long runs at this pace. This will help you become familiar with it. Use a heart rate monitor, GPS, or running watch to track your pace and HR.
• Adjust your pace: According to the course, weather, and how you feel. Do not try to maintain one fixed pace at all costs. Instead, adapt to changes in elevation, temperature, wind, and more. Slow down on climbs, pick up the pace on descents, and listen to your body.
• Start conservatively: Do not get carried away by the excitement of the start line. Starting too fast can drain your glycogen stores and lead to muscle fatigue. Begin at marathon pace, or slightly slower, then gradually increase the pace if you feel good.
• Manage the tough moments: They are inevitable. You may face the marathon wall between kilometers 30 and 35, cramps, pain, nausea, and more. When this happens, slow down, breathe deeply, drink and eat, and try to distract yourself. Set intermediate goals to keep your motivation high.

If you want to build your race strategy, we have developed a tool that lets you create a personalized race plan, including split times, pacing, nutrition, and hydration management. Everything you need to manage your race on the big day.

Head to Race Strategy.

YOUR 3:15 MARATHON TRAINING PLAN WITH THE RUNMOTION COACH APP:

You made it to the end of this 3:15 marathon training plan article? Congratulations!

You have taken the first step towards your goal. You now know how to prepare effectively to run a 3:15 marathon by following a training plan suited to your level and availability.

You know the different phases of the plan, the types of workouts to complete, the role of long runs, the tips for optimizing your training, and how to adjust for unexpected events. You are ready to take on the challenge!

But do not stop there. To run a successful 3:15 marathon, above all you need personalized support that motivates, guides, and supports you throughout your preparation.

That is why we recommend using the RunMotion Coach app, which offers a personalized training plan based on your availability, level, and goal. With RunMotion Coach, you benefit from plenty of expert advice, specific modules, including strength training, for complete marathon preparation, plus a virtual coach that encourages and advises you in every workout.

Do not wait any longer. Download RunMotion Coach and start your 3:15 marathon training plan today!

We wish you a great 3:15 marathon preparation, and we hope to see you again soon for preparing for a 3-hour marathon

You may also be interested in these articles:

• Run a 4:30 marathon
• Our tips for reaching your 4:15 marathon goal
• 4-hour marathon training plan
• Training plan to run a 3:45 marathon
• 3:30 Marathon Training Plan: Complete Guide

3:15 Marathon Training Plan FAQs

What level do you need?

A 3:15 goal is generally suited to experienced runners who train regularly and already have several long-distance races under their belt.

What marathon-specific pace should you train at to target 3:15?

To finish a marathon in 3:15, you need to be able to sustain an average pace of around 4:37 per kilometer over the full distance.

What half marathon time is usually needed to run 3:15?

A half marathon time between 1:28 and 1:32 is often a realistic benchmark for considering a 3:15 marathon.

How can you optimize your nutrition?

Nutrition should be practiced during training to identify the fueling strategy that works best for you. A well-prepared strategy can make a real difference in the final miles of the race.

Which key workouts will help you break through?

Long runs with marathon-pace segments, threshold workouts, and endurance-building sessions are especially important for reaching this goal.

L’article 3:15 Marathon Training Plan: Run Strong and Smart est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

Have you been running for a while and want to train for a marathon? You are in the right place. Discover a training plan to run your marathon in 3:30!

Requirements for Running a 3:30 Marathon

Running a 3:30 marathon is an ambitious goal that requires a few key foundations. Following a training plan alone is not enough. You also need a solid fitness base, running experience and a sufficient vVO2max level.

Basic Fitness

To run a marathon in 3:30, you need to be able to run continuously for at least 90 minutes without difficulty or pain. This means having good endurance, or the ability to sustain a moderate effort over a long period.

Easy-run fitness is built through long runs at an intensity between 65% and 75% of your maximum heart rate, or HRmax. HRmax can be estimated by subtracting your age from 220. For example, for a 40-year-old runner, HRmax is 180 beats per minute, or bpm, so the easy-run range is between 117 and 135 bpm.

Calculate your vVO2max, your endurance and estimate your next marathon finish time with our calculator.

Running Experience

To target a 3:30 marathon, you also need some running experience, especially over shorter distances. It is recommended that you have completed at least two or three half marathons, so you are familiar with pacing, nutrition, hydration and recovery.

A half marathon time of 1:40 or faster is also recommended. This equates to 12.7 km/h, or 4:43 min/km. It shows that you have the speed required to hold 12 km/h, or 5:00 min/km, over the marathon distance.

It is important to know that running a maximum of three marathons per year is recommended to prevent injuries, allow for optimal recovery and maintain a high level of performance.

Nutrition and Hydration for a 3:30 Marathon

Nutrition and hydration are key factors in marathon success. They affect your energy, recovery and performance.

Here are a few guidelines to follow:

• Gradually increase your carbohydrate intake during the three weeks before the marathon to top up your glycogen stores. Aim for around 7 to 10 g of carbohydrates per kg of body weight per day, choosing low- to moderate-glycemic-index sources such as pasta, rice, potatoes, fruit and bread.
• Hydrate regularly throughout the day by drinking water, tea, herbal tea, fruit juice or sports drinks. Avoid alcohol, coffee and soda, which have a diuretic and dehydrating effect.
• The day before the marathon, eat a carbohydrate-rich meal that is not too large or too high in fat to avoid digestive issues. For example, you could have pasta with tomato sauce, chicken, a green salad, yogurt and fruit purée. Drink plenty of water, but not so much that you dilute your electrolytes.
• On marathon morning, have a light, easy-to-digest breakfast around three hours before the start. For example, you could eat toast with honey, a banana, orange juice and coffee. Drink a little water, but not too much so you do not need to stop for the bathroom during the race.
• During the marathon, drink regularly at aid stations, around 150 to 200 ml every 5 km, to replace fluid losses. Alternate between water and sports drinks, which provide carbohydrates and electrolytes. Also take gels, such as Maurten gels, or energy bars, aiming for around 30 to 60 g of carbohydrates per hour to maintain blood sugar levels and delay fatigue.

If you want to go further and build your race strategy, we have developed a tool that lets you create a personalized race plan, including split times, paces, nutrition and hydration management. Everything you need to manage your race on the big day.

Head to Race StrategyRace Strategy.

8-Week and 12-Week Marathon Training Plans

If you meet the requirements for a 3:30 marathon and are motivated to reach your goals, it is time to discover an example training plan. We offer a four-workout-per-week program over eight weeks and a three-workout-per-week program over 12 weeks.

These plans include vVO2max workouts, easy runs and long runs.

Here is an extract from your 12-week 3:30 marathon training plan, shown below:

3:30 Marathon Training Plan: 8 Weeks, 4 Workouts

3:30 Marathon Training Plan: 12 Weeks, 3 Workouts

Your 3:30 Marathon Training Plan With the RunMotion Coach App

Training for a 3:30 marathon is a demanding challenge that requires patience and determination.

Rather than following a fixed PDF marathon training plan, we recommend using the RunMotion app instead. It gives you a personalized marathon training plan based on your availability and current fitness level. Benefit from expert advice and discover dedicated modules, including strength training, for a complete marathon preparation !

We wish you a great 3:30 marathon training block and hope to see you again soon for training for a 3:15 marathon

You may also be interested in these articles:

• Marathon 4h30: Achieve Your Goals4:30 Marathon: Achieve Your Goals
• Run Your Marathon in 4h15: Our Best TipsRun Your Marathon in 4:15: Our Best Tips
• 4-Hour Marathon Training
• 3:45 Marathon Goal: Our Advice
• Sub-3-Hour Marathon Training

FAQ: 3:30 Marathon Training Plan

What marathon pace do I need to finish in 3:30?

A 3:30 marathon requires an average pace of around 4:58 per kilometer. This pace demands strong endurance and consistent, specific training.

What half marathon time supports this goal?

Runners capable of completing a half marathon between 1:35 and 1:40 generally have a level that is compatible with a 3:30 marathon goal.

What vVO2max do I need to run a 3:30 marathon?

Although vVO2max is not the only performance indicator, a vVO2max of around 16 to 17 km/h is often seen in runners targeting a 3:30 marathon.

How should I pace my effort to avoid slowing down after 30 km?

Consistent pacing, smart hydration and appropriate fueling are the keys to limiting late-race fatigue and maintaining a steady rhythm all the way to the finish. Find more information in this dedicated article.

How many kilometers per week are needed?

Most runners training for a 3:30 marathon cover between 50 and 70 kilometers per week, spread across several complementary workouts.

L’article 3:30 Marathon Training Plan: 8 or 12 Weeks est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

Want to smash your marathon personal best? Break the 3h303:30, 3h153:15, 3h003:00, 2:45 or 2:30 barrier? The Valencia Marathon is the perfect race to set a marathon PB. Racing in Valencia in December offers a unique experience, blending Spanish passion with an ultra-fast course. In 2024, I set my own marathon PB in Valencia, running 2:32:19 and finishing 612th overall… What incredible depth!

Here is a look back at this event, now an unmissable race for marathon runners from around the world.

Valencia Marathon’s Rapid Rise to the Top

Just a few years ago, the Valencia Marathon was a low-profile regional race. Today, it belongs to the exclusive club of the world’s fastest marathons. Thanks to flawless organisation, an ultra-fast course and near-perfect weather in early December, with temperatures between 10 and 17°C, the Valencia Marathon has earned a special place in the hearts of both recreational and elite runners.

The city of Valencia has embraced this reputation by branding itself “Ciudad del Running”. From late November onwards, its streets take on the colours of the marathon. Hotels, restaurants and shops move to the rhythm of runners’ footsteps as athletes arrive from all over the world. Everything is designed to welcome them in the best possible conditions.

One City, One Course, One Promise of Performance

The Valencia Marathon starts in a futuristic setting: the City of Arts and Sciences. This architectural masterpiece by Calatrava provides a striking backdrop for this international event. The course flows beautifully, linking long straights, crossings over the Turia bridges and sections through both modern and historic neighbourhoods, all with very few changes of pace.

The final 2 to 3 kilometres even feel slightly downhill, giving you the chance to pick up the pace if you still have energy left and have avoided hitting the marathon wall.

All along the course, the atmosphere is festive and welcoming. Cheers ring out in every language, while live bands bring energy to the kilometres. That constant support can give you wings, even through the toughest moments.

Then there is the iconic Valencia Marathon finish, which many runners describe as the most beautiful finish line in the world. The famous blue bridge, suspended above the water, leads straight to the finish-line arch in the heart of the City of Arts and Sciences.

The Marathon for Personal Bests

The Valencia Marathon is not simply an enjoyable race. It is a marathon built for performance. The numbers speak for themselves: in 2023, more than 5,000 runners finished under 3 hours, a European record. By comparison, the Berlin Marathon, despite its reputation as a fast race, usually has between 2,500 and 3,000 sub-3 finishers.

French runners also turn out in force. At the latest edition, 126 French runners finished under 2:30, an impressive number for a marathon outside France. Among French women, more than 50 crossed the line in under 3 hours, confirming the appeal of this course for ambitious runners of every level.

And beyond those elite-level times, more than 10,000 runners break the 4-hour barrier, proof that Valencia gives everyone the chance to push beyond their limits in ideal conditions for success.

The Valencia Marathon’s remarkable depth is clear: I was running at 2:28 marathon pace, yet after 5 km the field was still this packed, as you can see in the photo below!

How to Prepare for the Valencia Marathon

Taking part in Valencia is great. Arriving well prepared is even better. A fast course and a motivating atmosphere are not enough if your preparation does not match your ambitions. Here are a few key points to help you approach this race in the best possible shape.

Build Your Marathon Training Plan

A marathon training plan for Valencia should focus on speed and endurance. The goal is not to manage elevation gain, but to learn how to run fast for a long time on flat roads. Include long runs with marathon-pace segments, threshold workouts and vVO2max sessions, as well as strength training to limit fatigue in the closing stages of the race.

One of the challenges is that your muscles are loaded in a very similar way throughout the entire race. When you alternate between gentle uphill and downhill gradients, the demands on your leg muscles vary more.

It is also useful to race a few tune-up events in the autumn, such as a half marathon or a 10K, to fine-tune your race strategy and target pace.

We invite you to download the RunMotion Coach app to get your personalised marathon training plan and add intermediate tune-up races to your schedule.

Work on Your Race Strategy

The fast start of the Valencia Marathon can catch out even experienced runners. The opening kilometres are so smooth and quick that many runners go out too hard, then blow up before the 30 km mark. Stay disciplined, settle into your pace from the start and wait for the right moment to accelerate if your energy levels are still good.

Fortunately, pacer groups are available for several target times, including 2:30, 2:45, 3:00 and 3:30. They can be valuable allies for staying on track.

Manage Hydration and Nutrition Properly

Even in mild weather, staying well hydrated is essential. Start drinking at the first aid stations, alternating between water and sports drink. The Valencia Marathon offers well-stocked aid stations, but you should still test your nutrition strategy in training and never try anything new on race day.

If you want to build your race strategy, we have developed a tool that lets you create a personalised race plan, including split times, pacing, nutrition and hydration management. Everything you need to manage your race on the big day.

Visit Race StrategyRace StrategyRace Strategy.

Extend the Experience Beyond the Finish Line

Valencia is about far more than 42.195 km. It is also a vibrant city where modernity meets tradition. After the race, it is well worth staying for a day or two to discover its charms: wander through the historic centre, enjoy a paella, Valencia’s signature dish, or explore its many parks and museums.

It is also the perfect time to unwind, recover gradually and share a drink, or two, with fellow finishers in one of the city’s many bars.

In Summary: Why Run the Valencia Marathon?

The Valencia Marathon is much more than a sporting event. It is a city-wide celebration, a bright escape in the heart of winter and a unique opportunity to surpass yourself. Whether you are preparing for your first marathon, chasing speed or passionate about discovering new places, Valencia has everything it takes to win you over.

So, are you ready to line up at the start of one of the world’s fastest and most inspiring marathons? Prepare seriously, embrace every stage of the race… and let the magic happen on that famous blue bridge.

L’article Valencia Marathon: Your Fast Track to a PB est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

There are 100-mile trail races. And then there is the Hardrock 100 2027.

With its 101.8 miles, 33,441 feet of elevation gain and loss, more than 10,000 meters of climbing and just as much descending, plus an average elevation above 11,000 feet, the Hardrock 100 is unlike any other race. The route travels through Colorado’s San Juan Mountains and reaches its high point at 14,048 feet on Handies Peak.

But the numbers tell only part of the story. At Hardrock, you need to run for a long time, a very long time, while handling altitude, technical terrain, mountain weather and, at times, terrain where mountain skills matter just as much as endurance.

Then there is the legendary finish in Silverton. After nearly 100 miles, runners do not simply cross a finish line. They must kiss the Hardrock, a rock painted with a ram.

Welcome to one of the world’s most iconic ultramarathons.

Hardrock 100 2027: What to Expect

The Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run takes place in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado.

The race starts and finishes in Silverton, travelling through areas including Telluride, Ouray and the former mining town of Sherman. The course forms a loop, alternating between 4WD roads, trails and off-trail sections.

Hardrock has been held since 1992, with several editions cancelled over the years due to snow conditions, wildfires or the pandemic. The course direction alternates each year. Following the clockwise 2026 edition, the 2027 race will run counterclockwise.

The Numbers That Reveal the Challenge

The figures may vary slightly across race documents, but the current official race information lists 101.8 miles, 33,441 feet of climbing and descending, and a high point of 14,048 feet.

Why Is Hardrock So Difficult?

On paper, Hardrock looks like another 100-miler.

On the ground, it is a very different story.

The first factor to consider is altitude. The race averages more than 11,000 feet, with numerous sections above 12,000 feet and a high point over 14,000 feet. Runners regularly travel above 11,800 feet.

At those elevations, the pace you can run bears little resemblance to what you might manage in a mid-mountain ultra.

The second factor is the terrain. The Hardrock 100 2027 features huge climbs and descents, scree slopes, snowfields in some years, creek crossings and exposed sections. The race organization emphasizes that mountain, navigation and wilderness survival skills can be just as important as endurance.

Finally, there is the weather. And in the high mountains, it can change very quickly.

An Ultra Where the Mountains Are Part of the Race

This is probably the main difference between the Hardrock 100 2027 and many other 100-mile races.

The course does not simply offer a lot of elevation gain. It takes runners deep into the high mountains.

The lower parts of the course run through wooded terrain, while the sections above treeline expose runners more directly to wind, cold, thunderstorms and rapidly changing conditions.

The organization notes that temperatures and conditions can differ dramatically between valleys and summits. It therefore recommends carrying equipment that can handle rain, wind and near-freezing temperatures.

This is a race where weather can change your strategy, and sometimes even your ability to keep moving.

Hardrock 100: Learn the Course Before Chasing the Clock

The race starts in Silverton and follows a large loop through the San Juan Mountains. It travels through:

• Lake City;
• Telluride;
• Ouray;
• Sherman;
• several passes between 12,000 and 13,000 feet;
• Handies Peak, the course’s highest point.

In total, runners cross 13 major passes between 12,000 and 13,000 feet and go above 12,000 feet 13 times. The course is an unrelenting sequence of climbs and descents. There is never really a point where you can tell yourself, “the mountains are behind me.”

Even after several dozen hours of racing, they remain ever-present.

Handies Peak: The Roof of Hardrock

Among the race’s many iconic sections, Handies Peak holds a special place. At 14,048 feet, or approximately 4,282 meters, it is the highest point on the Hardrock course. By then, runners are already deep into an adventure that goes far beyond simply running.

Altitude, potential cold, wind and terrain make every decision matter.

Preparing for Hardrock is therefore not just about looking at your weekly mileage or vertical gain. You also need to learn how to move confidently in the mountains.

How to Train for Hardrock

Training naturally depends on a runner’s level and experience, but several qualities are essential.

1. Build the Strength to Handle Massive Vertical

With more than 10,000 meters of climbing and the same amount of descending, the muscular load is enormous. Long climbs matter, but descents matter just as much.

You need to learn how to descend when your quads are already fatigued, stay efficient on uneven ground and preserve enough strength to keep climbing hours later.

2. Get Used to Long Days in the Mountains

A three-hour mountain run does not replicate Hardrock.

You need to gradually learn to remain efficient for very long periods. Big training weekends, featuring two consecutive long runs, can help develop your ability to run on tired legs while testing nutrition and gear.

3. Practice Fast Hiking

On such a mountainous course, hiking is not necessarily a failure. Quite the opposite.

The ability to hike efficiently on steep climbs can save huge amounts of energy. The goal is to find the right balance between running and hiking, rather than trying to run every single mile.

4. Prepare for Altitude

This is one of the specific challenges of the Hardrock 100 2027. A runner used to training at sea level or moderate elevation needs to understand that the sensations will be very different in the San Juan Mountains.

Altitude acclimatization must be planned seriously, particularly because the course stays at high elevation for much of the race.

5. Learn to Manage the Unexpected

At Hardrock, weather can force you to adapt.

The organization specifically highlights the possibility of heavy rain, strong winds, near-freezing temperatures and thunderstorms. Snowfields may also be present depending on the year’s conditions. Your gear needs to be tested before race day.

Do not discover your waterproof jacket for the first time at 13,000 feet.

To structure your training, RunMotion Ultra Trail training plans help you progress with a program tailored to your level and goal. Long runs, endurance development and fatigue management provide a strong foundation for ultra training, which should then be complemented with specific mountain work for a goal such as the Hardrock 100 2027.

And if you want to go further and build your race strategy, we have developed a tool that lets you create a personalized race plan, including split times, paces, nutrition and hydration management. Everything you need to manage your race on the big day.

Visit Race Strategy.

What Gear Should You Bring for Hardrock 100 2027?

The gear list depends on the year’s conditions and the specific race rules. However, the organization recommends bringing:

• a waterproof jacket;
• waterproof pants;
• gloves;
• an emergency blanket;
• a cap or warm hat;
• sunglasses;
• sunscreen;
• a whistle;
• a headlamp and a second light;
• spare batteries;
• enough carrying capacity for a substantial amount of fluids;
• a calorie reserve.

The organization also recommends carrying at least one extra warm layer beyond what you think you will need.

The reasoning is simple: in the high mountains, gear is not only about comfort. It can be essential for safety.

48 Hours to Finish Hardrock

Hardrock has a 48-hour cutoff.

That may sound generous compared with some 100-mile races. But this number needs to be put in context.

The distance exceeds 100 miles. Total elevation change tops 20,000 meters when climbing and descending are added together. And much of the course stays above 3,000 meters.

Those 48 hours are no gift.

They also reflect the race’s unique nature and weather conditions that can sometimes force runners to slow down or wait.

Hardrock 100 2027: How to Enter

This is obviously the question many trail runners ask. In 2027, the race will take place from July 9 to 11, 2027, with a 6:00 a.m. start on July 9 in Silverton.

But as with many major American ultras, getting a bib requires going through a specific process.

The 2027 lottery application window will be open from October 1 to 14, 2026 through UltraSignup, before the lottery drawing on December 5, 2026. You must also meet Hardrock’s qualification requirements.

And that is not all.

Qualification Is About More Than Running an Ultra

Hardrock has an interesting requirement: the organization also requires eight hours of service in order to enter.

This service can take several forms:

• organizing an ultra;
• volunteering at an ultra;
• working on a trail used by an ultra;
• taking part in trail building or maintenance work under the supervision of a qualified organization.

Pacing or crewing for another runner does not count as service. This requirement perfectly reflects the Hardrock philosophy. The point is not simply to come and race. You must also give back to the ultra community and the trails that make it possible.

How Much Does Hardrock Entry Cost?

Entry for the Hardrock 100 2027 is currently listed at $450, plus UltraSignup processing fees. Payment is collected when you apply, and the entry fee is charged if you are selected in the lottery.

For international runners, you will also need to add travel-related costs:

• flights to the United States;
• transportation to Colorado;
• accommodation;
• potential car rental;
• food;
• your stay before and after the race;
• potential course-reconnaissance or acclimatization trips.

The total budget for a Hardrock adventure is therefore significantly higher than the bib fee alone.

What If I Get Selected?

That is when the project becomes real.

Imagine it: December 2026, and your name appears in the lottery results.

From that moment on, you know that in a few months you will be standing in Silverton, at more than 9,300 feet of elevation, with a 100-plus-mile loop through the San Juan Mountains ahead of you. Your preparation takes on a whole new dimension.

You will need to think about altitude acclimatization.
Elevation gain.
Descents.
Gear.
Effort management.
Nutrition.

And above all, the experience required to move through the mountains for several dozen hours.

With Race Strategy, RunMotion offers a tool to build your complete race strategy around your time goal and the course profile: paces, split times, nutrition and hydration strategy, weather forecast and more.

Why Does Hardrock Captivate So Many Trail Runners?

Because it offers an experience that goes beyond the finish time. The Hardrock 100 2027 is not trying to recreate a marathon in the mountains.

It takes runners into an environment where the mountains set the rules. Altitude, weather, technical terrain and remoteness make every decision count.

Then there is the symbolism of the finish. After completing the loop around Silverton, one final gesture remains.

Kiss the Hardrock.

The painted ram rock marks the end of this adventure and is one of the race’s most recognizable images.

Hardrock 100 2027: Key Dates

If Hardrock is your dream race, here are the main dates to remember:

October 1 to 14, 2026
→ 2027 lottery application window.

December 5, 2026
→ Lottery drawing.

July 9, 2027
→ Hardrock 100 start in Silverton.

July 9 to 11, 2027
→ Race and finishing window.

For runners seriously considering the Hardrock 100 2027, the project begins long before July 2027.

It starts by checking your eligibility, preparing your application, understanding the qualification requirements and planning for the challenges of altitude.

Hardrock 100 2027: What Type of Runner Is It For?

You do not need to be capable of winning a 100-miler to dream about Hardrock.

However, you do need genuine mountain experience, long-distance experience and the ability to manage discomfort. Above all, you need the desire to learn how to move in an environment where running is only one part of the challenge.

Hardrock demands that you can run, hike, climb, descend, navigate, manage your effort and adapt your gear. That may be exactly what makes it so fascinating.

The Hardrock 100 2027 is not just a 100-mile ultra. It is a mountain adventure spanning more than 100 miles.

And for those who dream of seeing the painted ram rock after a long night in the San Juan Mountains, the journey can begin long before the start line.

Perhaps the only question is whether you are ready to put your name into the lottery.

L’article Hardrock 100 2027: The Ultimate Mountain Ultra est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

Why a Canadian winter needs its own training plan

You can train through a Canadian winter and reach spring fitter than you left fall. The runners who manage it plan the season in advance. They decide how they will handle wind chill, ice, rain and darkness before those conditions arrive.

This guide explains how to train through a Canadian winter from October to race day. It covers season planning, when to move a run indoors, how to adjust effort, and what changes from Vancouver to Halifax. For layering and general cold-weather basics, read our guide to running in the cold.

The length of the season is what makes Canada different. January’s daily mean temperature is about -16.3°C in Winnipeg, -10.3°C in Edmonton, -9.2°C in Montreal and -5.0°C at Toronto Pearson, based on 1991 to 2020 climate normals. Vancouver rarely freezes but averages about 175 mm of precipitation in November, spread over about 20 days. A few weeks of adjustments will not cover that. You need a plan for four or five months.

Plan your Canadian winter training in four phases

Splitting the season into phases gives each month one job. It also makes a missed week easier to absorb, because you know what that part of winter was for.

The exact dates depend on your race. Count back 12 to 16 weeks from race day to find where your specific build begins. Everything before that point is base building.

Decide by wind chill, then change the session

The wind chill tells you more than the temperature. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) combines air temperature and wind speed into a single value for exposed skin. Its frostbite risk bands work as a training guide.

A cold day rarely means a lost day. Swap the session for one that suits the conditions. A planned outdoor tempo run can become a treadmill tempo, and a long run can move to the calmest day of the week. As an example, -20°C with a 20 km/h wind gives a wind chill of about -30, which puts you in the high-risk band.

Use effort to guide winter runs

Winter pace is a poor measure of fitness. Snow, slush, extra layers and headwinds all slow you down at the same effort. Run easy days by heart rate or perceived effort, and keep them conversational. Our guide to fundamental endurance puts the easy ceiling at about 70% of maximum heart rate.

These adjustments keep training productive through the season:

• Start into the wind. Run the outward half of an out-and-back into the headwind so the wind is behind you when you are sweaty on the way home.
• Warm up indoors. Five to ten minutes of drills and mobility before you leave shortens the stiff first kilometre.
• Put hard sessions on the best day. Intervals and tempo runs need good footing more than warm air. Schedule them for the driest, calmest day, or run them indoors.
• Use hills when footing is poor. Uphill repeats let you work hard at slower speeds, with less risk of slipping.
• Keep strength work in the plan. Two short sessions a week help your hips and ankles cope with uneven snow and slush.

How your training changes by region

West Coast: rain and darkness

Vancouver runners can usually train outdoors all winter. Motivation and darkness are usually the bigger obstacles. The main physical risk is staying wet for a long time at 3 to 8°C, which chills you quickly once you slow down.

• Wear a breathable, water-resistant shell and a brimmed cap to keep rain off your face.
• Put anti-chafe balm on seams and waistbands, and choose wool-blend socks.
• Route long runs past home or your car so you can change into a dry top halfway.
• Shorten your stride on wet roots and boardwalks on the North Shore trails.

Treat rainy long runs as race practice. Spring races on the coast are often wet.

Prairies: deep cold and wind

Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon and Edmonton face the longest stretches of severe cold, and open terrain adds wind. In Calgary, chinooks can turn frozen roads to slush and back within days.

• Check the wind chill before every run.
• Run 2 to 5 km loops from home on the coldest days.
• Cover all skin at moderate wind chill or colder. A balaclava and mitts make the biggest difference.
• Run the long run outdoors when you can, and move intervals indoors below about -28.

Ontario and Quebec: slush and black ice

Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal see frequent freeze-thaw cycles. Meltwater refreezes overnight into black ice, so falls are the bigger risk.

• Own a pair of ice spikes. Canadian Running recommends them as the only reliable protection on ice, worn over regular road shoes.
• Use trail shoes with deep lugs for fresh or packed snow.
• Choose routes that are cleared first, such as main waterfront paths and arterial sidewalks.
• Let your pace drop on slushy days. A fall costs far more training time than a slow run.

Atlantic Canada: wind and wet snow

Halifax, Saint John, Moncton and St. John’s combine damp cold, freeze-thaw ice and strong coastal wind. A rain-snow mix at 0°C with gusts of 40 km/h can feel harsher than a dry -15°C day.

• Use a windproof shell as your outer layer on most days.
• Carry an extra light layer on long runs, since coastal weather changes quickly.
• Plan routes with shelter from buildings or trees for windy days.

Split your week between outdoors and indoors

Most runners get the best winter results from a mix. Keep easy runs and the long run outdoors when wind chill and footing allow. Move intervals and tempo runs to a treadmill or indoor track on icy or dangerously cold days. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing build aerobic fitness with less pounding.

A slight treadmill incline of 0.5 to 1% brings the effort closer to running outside. The 1% figure comes from a 1996 study by Jones and Doust. Our treadmill running advice covers fans, hydration and incline.

Plan around short days and the 2026 clock change

A clock change moves sunrise and sunset by an hour. That hour decides whether your usual run happens in daylight or darkness. This winter, Canada splits into two groups.

If your clocks no longer change

In Vancouver, the latest winter sunrise moves from about 8 a.m. to about 9 a.m., and sunset moves past 5 p.m. Sunrise on the Prairies comes later still. Morning runners will be out in the dark for most of December and January, often on ice that froze overnight and has not had any sun on it.

• Move your key sessions to after work, which now has more usable light.
• If you still run before work, treat every morning run as a night run: headlamp, reflective gear and lit routes.
• On the Prairies, early morning is both the coldest and darkest part of the day. A lunchtime run is often the warmest and brightest option.

If your clocks fall back

From November 1, sunset in Toronto, Montreal and Halifax arrives about an hour earlier, overnight. Runners who train after work lose their evening light in a single day.

• Wear a headlamp and reflective gear from that first week. Drivers are adjusting to darker commutes too.
• Consider moving one or two weekday runs to the morning, which is now brighter.
• Plan for the spring change. Clocks spring forward on March 14, 2027, three weeks before Around the Bay and in the middle of most spring marathon builds. Go to bed 15 minutes earlier for a few nights beforehand, and keep the next day’s run easy.

Wherever you live

• Wear lights and reflective details on your ankles and wrists, the parts drivers notice moving.
• Run familiar, lit routes on weekdays and save new ones for weekend daylight.
• Tell someone your route and carry your phone on cold days.

Drink even when you are not thirsty

Cold air dulls thirst. A 2004 study in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise found cold exposure reduced thirst by up to 40% during moderate exercise. Dry winter air and sweat under layers still cost you fluid. On runs longer than an hour, drink on a schedule and carry your bottle inside your jacket so it does not freeze.

Count back from your spring race

Most Canadian spring races are built on a winter training block. Here is where 12-week and 16-week plans start for three major 2027 races.

• Build your base in November and December. Keep weekly volume steady and mostly easy. Canadian Running suggests holding about 70% of your peak training volume during base building.
• Protect the long run. It matters most for spring marathon fitness, so move it to the best weather day of the week.
• Do race-pace work on a reliable surface. One clean treadmill tempo is worth more than three slippery ones outside.
• Expect February to feel slow. Your fitness is usually better than your winter paces suggest, and pace returns quickly once the roads clear.

Let your plan adapt with RunMotion Coach

A fixed training plan cannot account for a -35 wind chill or a week of black ice. RunMotion Coach builds a personalized plan around your level, goal, schedule and preferred surfaces, including treadmill. You can change your plan at any time, even at the last minute, so a key session can move to a better weather day. Training paces are calculated for you, which helps you hold the right effort when winter conditions distort your pace.

The app syncs with Garmin, Coros, Polar, Suunto, Apple Watch, Fitbit, Wahoo, Huawei Health and Strava, so treadmill and outdoor runs both count. Premium adds cross-training, strength sessions and plan adjustments for injury, illness or holidays. Set your spring race as your goal now, and your winter block will build toward that date.

Frequently asked questions

How do you train through a Canadian winter?

Plan the season in phases, decide each run by wind chill and footing, and train by effort instead of pace. Keep easy runs and the long run outdoors when conditions allow. Move intervals and tempo work indoors on icy or dangerously cold days.

Is it safe to run at -20°C?

For most healthy runners it is, with skin covered and light wind. Check the wind chill. At -20°C with a 20 km/h wind, the wind chill is about -30, which ECCC rates as high risk. Keep those runs short and close to home.

At what wind chill should you not run outside?

ECCC says frostbite risk rises quickly below a wind chill of -27. At -40 or colder, exposed skin can freeze in 5 to 10 minutes. Many Canadian runners move hard sessions indoors below about -28 and skip outdoor running below -40.

Can you train for a spring marathon on a treadmill?

Yes. Many Canadian runners do most of their winter intervals and tempo runs on a treadmill. Try to run some long runs outdoors so your legs adapt to the road before race day.

Do I need ice spikes for winter running?

If you run in Ontario, Quebec, the Prairies or Atlantic Canada, they are worth buying. Trail shoes handle snow, but only metal spikes reliably grip black ice.

Why is my running pace slower in winter?

Slippery footing, heavier clothing, headwinds and cold muscles all slow you down at the same effort. Your fitness is usually intact, and your pace returns when the roads clear.

Does Canada still change the clocks in winter?

Only in some provinces. From November 1, 2026, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and the Northwest Territories stay on daylight time year-round, joining Saskatchewan and Yukon. Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada still fall back in November and spring forward in March. Where clocks no longer change, winter mornings stay darker and evenings stay lighter.

L’article How to train through a Canadian winter: a runner’s guide est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

What if your next marathon took you to Amsterdam? With its flat, fast and highly scenic course, the TCS Amsterdam Marathon has become one of the standout events on the European running calendar.

The 2026 Amsterdam Marathon will take place on Sunday, 18 October 2026. This edition will welcome up to 32,000 marathon runners, with both the start and finish inside the iconic Olympic Stadium. The route takes in the Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark and the banks of the Amstel River.

Amsterdam is also a World Athletics Platinum Label Road Race and regularly ranks among the fastest marathons in the world.

So, how can you secure your race entry? What does the course look like? Is it really a good race for a personal best? What budget should you plan for? And how should you prepare for your marathon?

Here is our complete guide to the 2026 Amsterdam Marathon.

The history of the Amsterdam Marathon

The Amsterdam Marathon has a history closely linked to Olympic sport.

Today’s course is rooted in the legacy of the 1928 Olympic Games, starting and finishing at the Olympic Stadium, which was built for the event. Over the years, the race has become a major international fixture. In 2025, more than 60,000 runners from 140 countries took part in the various races across the weekend.

Today, the marathon attracts runners of every level. Some come simply to enjoy an unforgettable experience in Amsterdam, while others choose this event specifically to chase a new personal best.

And that is probably one of Amsterdam’s greatest strengths: it combines a sightseeing marathon with a genuine performance marathon.

2026 Amsterdam Marathon registration

The Amsterdam Marathon has become so popular that you now need to plan your registration well in advance.

For 2026, registration opened on 20 December 2025, and the 32,000-runner capacity was quickly reached. The official marathon entry fee was €145.

There is no official waiting list. If you missed out during standard registration, the organisers point runners towards their official resale platform.

Run for a charity

You can also take part through the KWF Run Against Cancer programme.

The principle is simple: in return for raising a minimum of €750, you receive a race entry while supporting cancer research.

Book through a tour operator

International runners can also book packages through specialist partners.

These may include a guaranteed race entry, hotel, flights, transfers and sightseeing activities. It is a more expensive option, but a useful one if you want to simplify all the logistics of your trip.

Our advice: if you want to run Amsterdam in the coming years, put the registration opening date in your calendar. Waiting just a few weeks can be enough to miss out on an entry.

A flat and fast course

This is probably the main reason to choose Amsterdam.

The course has a reputation for being flat, fast and historic. The Amsterdam Marathon also holds the World Athletics Platinum Label, the highest level of recognition for a road race.

There are no major elevation challenges. That makes it easier to hold a consistent pace and seriously target a personal best. But be careful: a flat course does not mean an easy marathon.

The lack of major climbs can tempt runners to start too fast. In a marathon, the kilometres run above your target pace in the first half are often paid back with interest over the final 10 kilometres.

The 2026 Amsterdam Marathon course

The race starts and finishes in the Olympic Stadium, immediately giving the event a special atmosphere.

From the opening kilometres, you will run through some of Amsterdam’s most iconic locations.

The Rijksmuseum

One of the most impressive sections comes very early in the race. At around kilometre 4, runners pass beneath the Rijksmuseum. It is a spectacular moment and one of the marathon’s signature images.

But remember: it is only the beginning of the race. Enjoy the atmosphere, but do not get carried away.

Through southern Amsterdam

The route then continues through several Amsterdam neighbourhoods, including the Zuidas district. This is a section where you need to stay focused on your pace and resist the urge to make up time.

There is still a long way to go.

The Amstel River

From around kilometre 14, one of the race’s most distinctive sections begins: the kilometres alongside the Amstel River.

The race follows part of the 1928 Olympic route, passing houses, more open scenery and windmills. This stretch covers around 12 kilometres and takes runners beyond halfway before returning towards Amsterdam.

It is a beautiful part of the course, but it also demands concentration. By then, you are already in the second half of the marathon.

The return to Amsterdam

After following the Amstel, the course gradually heads back towards the city centre. This is when the kilometres start to count. You are already beyond halfway, and fatigue is beginning to build in your legs. This is where pace management and fueling become essential.

Vondelpark

The course also goes through Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s best-known park.

Runners pass through it twice, making it a particularly good place for spectators. On the second pass, around kilometre 40, the atmosphere can provide a real surge of energy.

Only a few kilometres then remain before the Olympic Stadium.

How to pace your 2026 Amsterdam Marathon

Amsterdam’s main trap is simple: the course is so fast and runnable that it is easy to run too fast.

The first 10 kilometres

Do not try to bank time. If your target pace is 5:00/km, do not set off at 4:50/km just because you feel good.

Early marathon sensations can be deceptive. Your goal is to settle into your target pace quickly and stay there.

From kilometre 10 to kilometre 30

This is where you need to be consistent. The course is ideal for maintaining an even pace, so use that advantage to run efficiently, drink regularly and stick to your nutrition plan. The stretch along the Amstel is particularly well suited to focusing on your race strategy.

Do not try to accelerate before kilometre 30.

After kilometre 30

This is where your marathon truly begins.

If you have managed the first 30 kilometres well, you should still be able to hold your pace. And if your legs still feel good at kilometre 35, you can gradually pick it up. Your second pass through Vondelpark and the run back to the Olympic Stadium are your chance to give everything you have left.

Practical information

The 2026 Amsterdam Marathon will take place on Sunday 18 October, starting at 9:00 am, with a 6-hour cut-off time.

Bib collection

Bib collection takes place at the International Marathon Expo, at RAI Amsterdam:

• Thursday 15 October: 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
• Friday 16 October: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Saturday 17 October: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Runners living abroad must also collect their bib in person. Make sure you arrive in Amsterdam early enough.

How long should you stay in Amsterdam?

For runners travelling from abroad, 2 to 4 nights is usually enough.

Arriving on Friday gives you Saturday to collect your bib and enjoy the city at an easy pace, without walking too much before race day.

Most importantly, do not turn Saturday into a 30,000-step sightseeing day!

What is the weather like in Amsterdam in October?

In mid-October, temperatures are generally favourable for marathon running, but Dutch weather can be very changeable.

The main factor to watch is probably the wind.

On the more exposed stretches, particularly along the Amstel, a headwind can make your pace far tougher than expected. Check the forecast carefully in the days before the race and adjust your goal if needed.

How much does the Amsterdam Marathon cost?

Your budget will depend mainly on where you are travelling from and your accommodation choice.

For a 2 to 4-night stay, here are some typical costs:

• Race entry: around €145
• Return travel: around €50 to €300 from within Europe, and more from long-haul destinations
• Accommodation: around €100 to €250 per night
• Food and local transport: around €40 to €80 per day

For a European runner, allow around €500 to €1,500 per person for the full weekend.

If you are travelling from further away, your budget will naturally be higher. Packages offered by tour operators may also cost more, but they often include the race entry, hotel and part of the travel logistics.

How to prepare for the 2026 Amsterdam Marathon

Amsterdam is a particularly exciting marathon for runners targeting a fast time.

But that is exactly why a fast course requires the right preparation.

The goal is not simply to run faster. You need to be able to sustain your marathon pace for more than 42 kilometres while managing fatigue, aid stations and nutrition effectively.

That is where RunMotion can support you.

With the app, you can follow a personalised marathon training plan based on your current level, goal and race date.

Your training combines different types of workouts, including endurance runs, intervals, threshold sessions, long runs and recovery, so you can progress gradually and arrive on race day with the best possible chance of reaching your goal.

Discover the RunMotion marathon training plan and build your Amsterdam preparation around your target.

And if you are aiming for a personal best, remember one simple rule: your training should leave you strong after kilometre 30.

If you want to go further and build your race strategy, we have developed a tool that lets you create a personalised race plan based on your level and goal: split times, pacing, nutrition and hydration management…

Visit Race Strategy.

So, should you run the Amsterdam Marathon?

Yes, especially if you are looking for a fast and accessible European marathon.

Amsterdam has so much going for it:

a flat and fast course
a start and finish in an Olympic stadium
iconic landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum and Vondelpark
kilometres along the Amstel River
a strong international atmosphere
a course built for chasing a personal best

Its main drawback is ultimately its popularity: race entries sell out very quickly. If you want to run Amsterdam, it is best to plan your registration early. And once you have secured your place, the most important thing remains: preparing properly for the 42.195 km.

With such a fast course, the Amsterdam Marathon could be the perfect opportunity to take your race time to the next level.

A controlled start, consistent pacing, a smart nutrition strategy and focused marathon training: everything is in place to chase your next personal best in Amsterdam.

L’article Amsterdam Marathon 2026: Your Complete Race Guide est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

Running the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon is about far more than covering 26.2 miles.

It is a journey through part of the City of Angels, from Dodger Stadium to Century City, taking in some of LA’s most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks along the way. Also known as the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon, the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon features the “Stadium to the Stars” course, offering runners a unique way to discover the city mile by mile.

In 2027, the race takes place on Sunday, March 7. The start is scheduled for 7:00 AM at Dodger Stadium, while the finish line awaits on Santa Monica Boulevard at Avenue of the Stars. Runners will have 6 hours and 30 minutes to complete the marathon.

So, what can you expect from this iconic American marathon? How do you register, what is the course like, and how should you train for the Los Angeles Marathon?

Los Angeles Marathon 2027: Essential Information

Before picturing yourself running through the streets of Los Angeles, here are the key details to know:

The race weekend also includes a 5K and a kids’ race on Saturday, as well as a Charity Half Marathon on Sunday.

How to Register for the Los Angeles Marathon

Good news for anyone hoping to run the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon: unlike some major international marathons, you do not need to enter a lottery to secure a bib.

General registration for the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon is available directly through the organizer’s website, subject to availability. The organization states that registration will close once the race sells out.

You can also take part through Team TMF by committing to raise funds for the organizing foundation. For 2027, a fundraising commitment of $725 includes complimentary marathon registration.

If you are planning to run the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon, it is best not to leave your registration until the last minute.

A Marathon to Discover Los Angeles

This is probably one of the race’s biggest draws.

The Stadium to the Stars course starts at Dodger Stadium and travels through several Los Angeles neighborhoods before reaching Century City and the finish on Santa Monica Boulevard. Across 26.2 miles, runners pass through Downtown Los Angeles, Echo Park, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Brentwood.

The concept is simple: rather than running laps around one neighborhood, this marathon takes you across a major part of the city.

With roads closed to traffic, enthusiastic spectators, and plenty of entertainment along the route, it is a completely different experience from a typical sightseeing trip.

Is the Los Angeles Marathon Course Fast?

The Los Angeles Marathon is not a completely flat marathon.

The course includes elevation changes, especially with uphill sections in the first part of the race. So, avoid starting too fast simply because you are running a city marathon.

As with any 26.2-mile race, effort management is essential. Use the opening miles to settle into your rhythm rather than trying to bank time too early. In Los Angeles, just as anywhere else, the real marathon often begins after mile 18.

The Final Miles to Century City

This is where the experience can become especially memorable.

After several hours of running, your legs will start to feel heavy. But the scenery changes and the finish line gets closer. The final miles lead into Century City, with the finish located on Santa Monica Boulevard.

The marathon ends in a setting that feels very different from the one at the start.

After leaving Dodger Stadium several hours earlier, all that is left is to enjoy those final strides and, above all, savor the finish.

A Truly American Race-Day Atmosphere

The 2027 Los Angeles Marathon is not defined by its course alone.

The organizers announce more than 40 nonprofit cheer zones, over 65 running club cheer zones, and around 20 entertainment areas spread across the course.

That atmosphere is a central part of the race experience.

For runners discovering major American marathons, it is also a different way to experience a race, with more entertainment, music, and spectators cheering throughout the entire course.

Exactly what you need to find another gear when the miles start to take their toll.

What Race Strategy Should You Use at the Los Angeles Marathon?

If your goal is to run a fast time, it is best to build your race progressively.

The first priority is to avoid digging too deep in the opening miles.

With the excitement, spectators, and energy at the start, it can be easy to run faster than planned. Yet a few seconds gained per mile early on can cost you far more after mile 18.

A classic marathon pacing strategy could be to:

• start slightly below your target pace;
• gradually settle into your rhythm;
• stay consistent on uphill sections;
• wait until mile 18 before accelerating, if your legs still feel strong;
• save enough energy for the final miles.

If your main goal is to enjoy the trip, your strategy can naturally be different.

The Los Angeles Marathon is also a race to experience.

What Time Should You Target in Los Angeles?

The time you should target depends first and foremost on your fitness level and your goal. For a first marathon, simply finishing in good shape can be the perfect objective.

For experienced runners, the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon can also be an opportunity to target a new personal best.

The course is officially measured at 26.2 miles, and the 6-hour-30-minute cutoff provides plenty of time for runners who primarily want to enjoy the experience.

If you are chasing a specific finish time, you will of course need to factor the course profile into your pacing plan.

How to Train for the Los Angeles Marathon

You cannot prepare for a marathon in just a few weeks.

Your training should gradually build endurance, the ability to sustain a strong pace, and the muscular resilience needed to run efficiently for more than two hours.

Long runs are a key part of marathon preparation.

They help you practice pace management, fueling, and hydration, while also teaching your body and mind how to run with fatigue.

For Los Angeles, it can also be useful to include a few hilly workouts so that the rolling sections of the course do not come as a surprise on race day.

Train for Your Marathon with RunMotion

To structure your build-up, RunMotion’s marathon training plans provide a program tailored to your level and goal. Long runs, marathon-pace sessions, and endurance training help you build fitness progressively all the way to race day, while adapting your training load to your profile.

If you want to go further and build your race strategy, we have developed a tool that enables you to create a personalized race plan: split times, paces, and nutrition and hydration management…

Head to Race Strategy.

What Gear Should You Bring?

For an urban marathon like Los Angeles, there is no need to overcomplicate your kit.

The most important thing is to run in gear you already know and have tested:

• marathon-ready running shoes;
• an outfit tested in training;
• a GPS watch, if you use one;
• sunglasses;
• a cap if it is sunny;
• your own nutrition, if needed.

Los Angeles weather in early March can be pleasant for running, but conditions can vary. Check the forecast in the days leading up to the race rather than committing to an outfit you picked several weeks in advance.

The 2027 Los Angeles Marathon Weekend

The event is about more than Sunday morning.

The Expo and packet pickup will be held at Dodger Stadium on Friday, March 5, and Saturday, March 6, 2027. The Expo will be open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Friday and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday.
Saturday also hosts the LA 5K and the kids’ race.
On Sunday morning, the marathon starts at 7:00 AM.

Plan your wake-up time and, above all, your journey to Dodger Stadium in advance.

The organizers plan to open the stadium parking lots from 3:00 AM, with access to the starting corrals from 5:00 AM.

Los Angeles Marathon: What Budget Should You Plan For?

The entry fee is only one part of the budget when traveling to run the race.

You should also factor in:

• flights;
• accommodation in Los Angeles;
• local transportation;
• meals;
• travel insurance;
• possible baggage fees;
• your race entry and spending while you are there.

But Los Angeles can also become a true running trip.

After 26.2 miles, why not stay a few extra days to explore the city, Santa Monica, Hollywood, or the different neighborhoods you ran through during the race?

Why Run the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon?

The Los Angeles Marathon may not be the first race that comes to mind when you are planning your marathon calendar.

And yet, it has one hard-to-match advantage: running across Los Angeles.

The start at Dodger Stadium, the neighborhoods along the route, the entertainment, and the Century City finish give the event a real identity. It is a marathon you can choose for a fast time, but also for the trip. To discover a vast city in a different way. And to say, a few hours later, that you ran across Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Marathon 2027: Dates to Remember

If Los Angeles appeals to you for 2027, here are the main dates to keep in mind:

Friday, March 5, 2027
→ Expo opens and packet pickup begins.

Saturday, March 6, 2027
→ LA 5K, kids’ race, and the second day of packet pickup.

Sunday, March 7, 2027
→ The Los Angeles Marathon starts at 7:00 AM.

Sunday, March 7, 2027
→ Finish in Century City after 26.2 miles.

Ultimately, the Los Angeles Marathon delivers a distinctive combination: a genuine sporting challenge and an unforgettable travel experience.

So, instead of simply visiting Los Angeles, why not discover it to the rhythm of your stride?

L’article Los Angeles Marathon 2027: Course Guide and Training Tips est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

Are you registered for one of the UTMB® Mont-Blanc races at the end of August, the UTMB®, CCC®, TDS®, OCC, MCC or PTL®? RunMotion Coach is the official coach of UTMB® Mont-Blanc. In that role, we share our top tips for succeeding in this legendary race around Mont Blanc, plus everything your UTMB® Mont-Blanc training plan needs to maximise your chances of crossing the iconic finish arch in Chamonix!

Whether your goal is to chase a fast time or simply become a finisher, you need a tailored trail running training plan. Below, discover our advice for the flagship UTMB® race, 171 km with 10,000 m of elevation gain, as well as the other races taking place during the week.

Build a Consistent Overall Training Volume

If you want to succeed at UTMB^®, you need to train for at least 10 hours per week, ideally 15 hours if possible. Most of this volume should come from running. Your body needs to adapt to the impact and elevation gain that come with running.

It is recommended to supplement your overall training volume with cycling, which is excellent for endurance and developing leg strength endurance. To add variety, you can go ski touring or cross-country skiing in winter, and swimming in summer.

For the CCC^®, aim for 8 to 12 hours of training per week. For the MCC and OCC, 5 to 10 hours per week may be enough. Of course, this depends on the individual, particularly your previous training volume and your ambitions. If you want to increase your weekly training hours compared with last year, do so gradually.

Key Sessions for Your UTMB^® Training Plan

The UTMB® Mont-Blanc races demand appropriate training. To prepare, include a range of trail-specific workouts.

Hike-Run Sessions

One of the foundations of ultra trail training is the hike-run session. The pace is close to what you will run in an ultra. The goal is to get used to alternating between hiking and running, while helping your body adapt to these intensities. As a rule, it is not advisable to go beyond five hours in a hike-run session, as the body is already under significant stress. If you want a bigger training volume, you can add one or two hours of cycling afterwards.

To build even greater volume, you can also enter preparatory races, which we will discuss later.

Hill Repeats

With hill repeat workouts, the aim is to develop strength and running form while maintaining a relatively high cadence. For example, you could do sessions from 12 x 30 seconds up to 8 x 1 minute 30 seconds. They may seem short, but the advantage is that you can run them almost anywhere, even in the city if you have a long enough hill, and they are easy to fit into a lunchtime break. Your heart rate will generally rise significantly.

Uphill Threshold Sessions

Uphill threshold training improves your ability to climb a long ascent quickly, with 500 to 1,000 m of elevation gain, for example. These sessions build endurance under sustained effort. Typical workouts include 4 x 6 minutes, 3 x 10 minutes or 2 x 20 minutes.

Downhill Training

Every trail runner knows that descents are usually what destroy your legs. One of the best ways to prepare is to train downhill specifically, at a faster-than-race pace. At first, you will cause muscle fibre damage, then your muscles will become stronger. You can do up to 10 x 1 minute downhill, for example. The pace is faster than your race pace, helping you feel more comfortable in competition.

Trail-Specific Strength and Conditioning

For ultra trail efforts, it is essential to include appropriate strength and conditioning. Focus on muscle-strengthening exercises, such as those available in the S&C module in the RunMotion Coach app.

You can also add cycling or indoor trainer workouts to develop strength and strength endurance. For example, perform a short maximal effort, the app also offers these workouts if you select one or more cycling days each week, or use a big gear on climbs for longer efforts.

If you live in a city, stairs can be an excellent way to work on plyometrics.

Plan Preparatory Races Before UTMB®

To build substantial training volume, nothing beats a race. You benefit from planned aid stations and safety support, and you can test your gear and nutrition strategy. It is essentially a dress rehearsal and an opportunity to assess your current fitness.

For example, if you are preparing for UTMB® or TDS^®, you could schedule an 80 to 100 km trail race between May and June, or even early July. You could even run two 80 km trail races one month apart.

If you are preparing for the CCC^®, look for a 60 to 70 km trail race between May and mid-July. For the OCC^® and MCC, you can race distances from 20 km to 42 km up until the end of July.

Prepare for UTMB^® Mont-Blanc Weather Conditions

At UTMB^® Mont-Blanc, the fastest runners spend just one night out on the course, finishing on Saturday afternoon. Only around 100 runners finish in under 30 hours, before midnight on Saturday. Everyone else will spend two nights running outdoors.

It is therefore important to train at night, so you get used to running in the dark and know your headlamp inside out. For example, train in the evening to run into the sunset, then descend using your headlamp. You can also head out early in the morning to catch the sunrise!

However, it is not recommended to spend an entire night outdoors in training, as it creates a great deal of fatigue. A few hours of night running in training is enough. You can also include night races in your preparation, or races with a very early start.

Half of TDS^® runners also spend a second night outdoors. The vast majority of CCC^® runners finish during the night. You therefore need to prepare to run at night.

Prepare for cold weather too. The mountain passes on the Mont Blanc circuit reach up to 2,500 m in altitude. This is not high altitude mountaineering, but it can be cold at the end of August and snow is possible, particularly at night and in rainy conditions. If snow has fallen, the route may be modified.

It is important to test your gear in training. Take a close look at the UTMB® Mont-Blanc mandatory equipment, especially the cold-weather kit.

Do Not Overdo It in August!

In August, you enter the final stretch. These are the last moments of your preparation. While you can still fit in a few long runs at the beginning of August, reduce your mileage over the final two to three weeks.

You do not want to arrive overly tired or, worse, injured. Beyond physical fatigue, you need to preserve your mental freshness and the desire to give everything on race day.

The biggest mistake would be training too hard in the weeks before the race. Even if you feel you should have done more volume in your preparation, keep your training load reasonable at the end.

Prioritise Your Recovery

To absorb the volume of your training effectively, here are a few key recovery principles. The three pillars of recovery are sleep, nutrition and hydration.

The most restorative thing for your body is sleep. Aim for at least seven to eight hours per night in a quiet environment. During particularly intense weeks, you can even target nine hours of sleep and add a nap during intensive training weekends.

After a demanding workout, eat carbohydrates and protein within an hour of finishing. During this period, your body absorbs carbohydrates and protein more effectively. This is known as the metabolic window. It helps replenish your carbohydrate stores and supports muscle recovery.

For hydration, aim to drink at least 1.5 litres of water every day, plus 300 to 500 ml per hour of exercise. On your long runs, always remember to carry a water bottle or flask.

Massage, compression socks, electrical muscle stimulation and hot-cold contrast therapy can all be useful additions to your recovery routine.

Fuel the Week Before UTMB® Mont-Blanc

The leading cause of withdrawal from an Ultra-Trail^® is digestive issues. Running places stress on the intestinal walls. During exercise, the heart directs blood to the organs that matter most, primarily the brain and muscles. The intestine may sometimes receive insufficient blood flow, while repeated impact can also damage the intestinal lining.

That is why it is best to start with a strong foundation. In the weeks before a race, you can take a course of L-glutamine and probiotics. L-glutamine is an essential fuel for small intestine cells and nutrient absorption. Put simply, it strengthens your intestinal lining. Probiotics support a healthy microbiome balance and regular digestion.

When you line up for one of the UTMB^® Mont-Blanc races, it is best to have optimised your carbohydrate stores. Carbohydrates are the main fuel used during an Ultra-Trail^®. That means fewer calories to make up at the first aid stations.

From three days to one day before the race, prioritise quality carbohydrate sources, including starchy foods, rice, potatoes, bread, pancakes, honey and maple syrup. Some runners may prefer gluten-free foods. Avoid consuming too much fibre, which can irritate the intestinal lining. You can eat very ripe fruit such as bananas, or cooked fruit such as apples, pears and peaches.

You will also need to prepare your race nutrition and hydration strategy carefully.

Manage Your Effort in Your UTMB® Race

That is it, you are ready to take on UTMB^® Mont-Blanc! Above all, this is a race where you learn about yourself and push your limits. Do not ruin your chances by starting too fast. It is one of the most common mistakes. You are heading out for dozens of hours of effort, and the few minutes gained at the start can cost you dearly at the finish.

Good training should leave you ready for race day. Listen to your body and enjoy the experience! Think back to your preparation and why you chose to start. You have trained for months, perhaps years, to run these incredible trails around Mont Blanc. Enjoy every moment!

One Month Before UTMB, Prepare Your Race Strategy Too

And one month before UTMB, it is time to shift from preparation to strategy. How should you manage the first climbs? What pace should you start at to avoid blowing up before Champex? When should you hike on the ascents? What split times should you target at each aid station? When and how should you fuel?

To help answer these questions, Race Strategy lets you create a personalised race plan based on your level and your goal. You can visualise your split times, pace and effort management throughout UTMB, so you arrive on race day with a clear strategy.

Create your race plan for UTMB one month out and prepare every stage of your ultra with Race Strategy.

If you want to maximise your chances of success and need a personalised UTMB Mont-Blanc training plan, you can download the RunMotion Coach app, the official coach of UTMB Mont-Blanc.

Enter your current experience and your UTMB Mont-Blanc goal, UTMB, CCC, TDS, OCC, MCC, ETC or PTL. You will find all the advice shared here in greater detail, along with your structured training programme. All that is left for you to do is run!

L’article UTMB Mont-Blanc Training Plan: Your Complete Guide est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

The day before a race, your training is done. Or almost. After several weeks of preparation, it can be tempting to do one more thing to make sure you are ready: one final workout, a few extra miles, an especially big meal, lots of water… Yet the day before a race is generally not the time to do more.

The goal is simple: arrive at the start line rested, properly hydrated, fuelled with energy, with your gear ready and your mind at ease.

Whether you are preparing for a 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon or trail race, the principles are broadly the same. Some habits may vary depending on the distance, the intensity of the event and what you are used to doing in training.

Here is how to organise the day before a race, without overcomplicating things.

Should you run the day before a race?

For most runners, there is no need to do a proper training session the day before a race. At this stage, recovery is the priority, not building fitness.

Some runners are used to doing a very easy jog, a few minutes of running or a few strides to feel sharp before a race. This short session can have its place if it is part of your usual routine.

The key is not to try anything new, and above all, not to turn this run into a workout.

The day before is not the time to check whether you can hold your race pace or to “fit in one last good workout.” Your training is behind you.

If you do not run, there is no need to warm up or complete an especially long mobility session either. A few gentle movements can feel good if you are used to them, but avoid unfamiliar or overly intense exercises.

Eat what you are used to

The day before a race, nutrition deserves some attention, but it is not the time to overhaul your diet.

If you have followed a nutrition strategy in the days leading up to the race, simply continue along the same lines. For events where energy stores matter, especially over long distances, carbohydrates play an important role in your nutrition during the final days.

But that does not mean you should eat a huge dinner the night before.

An especially large meal can instead lead to difficult digestion or disrupt your sleep. It is better to eat enough and choose foods you already know.

A few simple principles:

• choose foods you tolerate well;
• avoid particularly fatty or spicy meals if you know they upset your digestion;
• do not test a new food, supplement or “race-day” product;
• adjust portions to your usual habits and the planned race distance;
• also think about the following morning’s breakfast.

There is no single ideal pre-race dinner that works for every runner. What works for one person may be far less suitable for another.

The day before a race, familiarity is often your best ally.

Hydrate as usual

The same principle applies to hydration: it is important to arrive at the start properly hydrated, but drinking much more than usual is not a strategy to prioritise.

Drink regularly throughout the day, according to your thirst and usual habits. Above all, avoid waiting until the last minute to drink large amounts.

On the other hand, there is no need to force yourself to drink several litres of water simply because you have a race the next day.

For long-distance events, weather conditions and temperature can of course change your needs. This is why it is helpful to have planned your hydration strategy during training and to know what will be available on race day.

Once again, the day before is the time to follow a tested strategy, not experiment.

Prepare all your race gear

This is probably one of the best things to do the day before: prepare everything you will need before, during and after the race. It helps you avoid a frantic morning and clears your mind.

In particular, prepare:

• your shoes;
• your race outfit;
• your race bib;
• your fully charged watch;
• your phone, if you need it;
• your gels, bars or other personal race nutrition;
• your running belt or pack;
• any accessories needed for the weather;
• warm clothes for before and after the race;
• your bag for the bag drop, if needed;
• safety pins or a race bib belt.

Also think about the small details that are easy to forget: sunglasses, a cap, anti-chafing cream, headphones where permitted, or a portable charger.

A useful tip is to lay out your gear in the order you will use it. That way, you will have far less to manage on race morning.

Check the course one last time

You do not need to know every turn by heart, but taking a few minutes to review the course can be useful.

Depending on the race, check:

• the start location and time;
• how to get to the venue and how long it will take;
• the main climbs and descents;
• any technical sections;
• the location of aid stations;
• the finish line;
• any bag-drop areas or starting corrals.

For a long race, you can also identify the sections where you will need to manage your effort particularly carefully. The aim is not to analyse everything. A few reference points are enough to know what to expect.

You can also check the weather forecast and adapt your outfit accordingly.

Stay active, but avoid an overly busy day

The day before a race, it is generally best to avoid demanding physical activities. That does not mean you need to spend the entire day lying down.

A normal, relatively calm day works perfectly well. You can walk a little, go about your usual activities and enjoy your day, as long as you avoid anything that could tire you out unnecessarily.

A long hike, an intense DIY project, several hours on your feet or a full day of sightseeing may seem harmless, but they are not necessarily ideal before a race.

The goal is simply to preserve your energy.

Think about your sleep, too

Sleep is often one of the biggest sources of stress before a race.

“What if I sleep badly?”

That worry can sometimes become more disruptive than the lack of sleep itself.

An imperfect night before a race does not erase several weeks of training. Your recovery does not depend on that final night alone: the previous nights matter too.

Try to keep your usual routine instead of trying desperately to go to bed very early. Preparing your gear in advance, setting your alarm and planning breakfast can also prevent your mind from racing at bedtime.

And if sleep takes time to come, there is no need to check the clock every ten minutes while telling yourself that you absolutely must sleep. You have done the training. Now let your body do its job.

What if you feel stressed?

Feeling a little nervous before a race is completely normal. Even when you are well prepared, competition can bring excitement, anticipation and a few doubts.

The day before, it can therefore be helpful to relax instead of trying to optimise every detail.

Watch a film, read, listen to music, spend time with loved ones or simply enjoy a quiet evening: do whatever usually helps you feel good.

Also avoid spending the evening comparing your training with other runners, compulsively checking the weather forecast or reworking your race strategy every ten minutes. You can have a plan. But you do not need to control everything.

The day before a race, your goal is no longer to become a better runner. It is to arrive at the start as the runner your training has built.

Find a few running-specific heart coherence breathing exercises here.

What to avoid the day before a race

Sometimes the best preparation is simply avoiding certain things.

In particular, avoid:

• an intense or unfamiliar training session;
• a run that is much longer than planned;
• a meal you have never tested before;
• excessive amounts of food or drink;
• a new dietary supplement;
• a very intense massage if you are not used to it;
• deep or unfamiliar stretching;
• a tiring physical activity;
• a very short night caused by last-minute organisation.

In short: do not try to catch up on or improve your preparation in the final hours.

The day-before-race checklist

Before going to bed, take a few minutes to make sure everything is ready.

Race

• ☐ I know the start time and location.
• ☐ I have planned my journey and arrival time.
• ☐ I have reviewed the main features of the course.
• ☐ I have checked the weather forecast.

Nutrition and hydration

• ☐ I have planned my meals.
• ☐ I am eating foods I know and digest well.
• ☐ I am drinking regularly without trying to drink excessively.
• ☐ My breakfast for the next morning is planned.

Gear

• ☐ My race bib is ready.
• ☐ My shoes are ready.
• ☐ My outfit is suitable for the weather.
• ☐ My watch is charged.
• ☐ My race nutrition is ready, if needed.
• ☐ I have prepared my things for before and after the race.

Recovery

• ☐ I am not planning any tiring physical activity.
• ☐ I am taking time to relax.
• ☐ I will try to keep my usual sleep routine.
• ☐ I am not trying to change my preparation at the last minute.

In summary: what should you do the day before a race?

The day before a race, above all, trust the work you have put in over the previous weeks.

There is no need for one final big workout, a miracle meal or a revolutionary strategy. A calm day, familiar nutrition and hydration, a little organisation and enough rest are all you need to approach the start in the best possible conditions.

Prepare your gear, review the course, plan your morning, then let the pressure ease.

Because on race day, there will be only one thing left to do: run.

L’article What to Do the Day Before a Race: Runner’s Checklist est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

Have you signed up for one of the Grand Raid de La Réunion races, the Diagonale des Fous (165 km, 10,200 m D+), Trail de Bourbon (109 km, 6,000 m D+), Mascareignes (72 km, 3,900 m D+), or Zembrocal Trail (149 km, 8,000 m D+, four-person relay)? This legendary trail has a few unique demands, including a no-poles rule and highly technical terrain. Training with a Grand Raid de La Réunion training plan is therefore essential!

Whichever race you choose, you will experience a one-of-a-kind adventure in an incredible atmosphere, from the start line to the course and the finish at the famous Stade de la Redoute in Saint-Denis. It is one of the toughest trail races in the world, due to its huge elevation gain and dramatic temperature swings, hot during the day and cold at night. On the Diagonale des Fous, sleep deprivation often leads to major performance breakdowns or even hallucinations…

The foundations of an ultra trail training plan

To build the aerobic base and resilience needed for an ultra trail, you will need at least 10 hours of training per week for the Diagonale des Fous, or up to 15 hours if possible. Most of that volume should generally come from running, to help your body handle the impact and elevation gain. You can complement it with road cycling or mountain biking.

For the Trail de Bourbon, aim for 8 to 12 training hours per week. For the Mascareignes, 5 to 10 hours per week may be enough. Naturally, this depends on the individual, especially your previous training volume and your race ambitions. If you want to increase your training hours compared with last year, make sure you do so gradually.

How to adapt your training for the Grand Raid de La Réunion and Diagonale des Fous

The Grand Raid de La Réunion races require specific preparation. Your training needs to be varied, and you should prepare for the unique demands of these trails as early as possible. First, do not use poles too often in training. They are prohibited on race day, so it is better to get used to climbing and descending without them.

Weather conditions can be challenging, often hot and humid during the day, then cold at night. Since the heart of your training block will be in July, August and September, do not hesitate to train in the heat, although not on every run to avoid excessive fatigue.

Pole-free hike-and-run sessions for the Diagonale des Fous

Hike-and-run training is usually the foundation of an ultra trail training plan. This is even more true for the Diagonale des Fous, as most of the race is hiked, even by runners in the top 50! You therefore need to get used to walking as much as possible, and without poles. When the climb gets too steep, do not hesitate to place your hands on your thighs to help yourself move uphill.

For the Diagonale des Fous, you can build up to 5- to 6-hour hike-and-run outings, potentially adding another long bike ride over the weekend. Beyond that, the fatigue created can become counterproductive in a structured training plan.

From time to time, you can train very early in the morning to simulate the fatigue you may feel as the race progresses. However, we do not recommend spending an entire night outdoors in training, as it is simply too exhausting. You can also look for a preparation race with a very early start to rediscover the sensations of night trail running.

Hill workouts

There are two main types of hill workouts, short hills and long hills. With short hill repeats, you develop strength and running form. Jog back down, then either start again immediately or add a 30-second wall sit at the bottom to work your quads even harder. Examples of short hill sessions include 12 x 30 seconds up to 8 x 1 minute 30 seconds. Their advantage is that you can do them almost anywhere, including in the city, and they fit easily into a busy schedule.

Long hills build muscular endurance, with sessions such as 4 x 6 minutes or 3 x 10 minutes. Ideally, choose a climb with 500 to 1,000 metres of elevation gain, so you do not have to run back down after every repetition.

Train for technical descents

Every trail runner knows that trail descents are usually what destroy your legs. This is even more true on the Diagonale des Fous! Think of the feared Chemin des Anglais, an old paved route that climbs and descends over uneven stones, creating a brutal challenge for your quads and ankles. Other descents feature irregular high steps that put tired thighs and knees under serious pressure.

It is therefore important to include downhill running in your training, for example 10 x 1 minute at a strong pace on a descent. You can also target continuous descents with 500 to 1,000 metres of elevation loss. If you can find technical descents or large steps, even better. Focus on looking ahead and planning your line to avoid falls.

Trail-specific strength and conditioning

For ultra trail efforts, tailored strength and conditioning is essential. This is even more important for the Diagonale des Fous, where muscular strength is a key factor because of the huge elevation gain and technical trails.

Focus on varied strength training exercises, such as the strength training exercises available in the RunMotion Coach app. If you live in a city, stairs can be an excellent way to include plyometric work.

You can also add cycling or indoor trainer workouts to develop strength and muscular endurance. This can mean maximum efforts over short durations, or riding uphill in a big gear for longer blocks.

Plan preparation races before the Grand Raid de La Réunion

To accumulate substantial training volume, there is nothing quite like racing. You benefit from organised aid stations, safety support, and the chance to test your gear and nutrition strategy. It is effectively a full dress rehearsal and an opportunity to assess your current fitness. The good news is that summer offers plenty of trail races for your preparation!

As the Grand Raid de La Réunion takes place in October, you can find trail races in July or August to prepare. Ideally, choose a race between 50% and 80% of your target distance, no more. Of course, there can be exceptions, but if you want to reach peak form at the Grand Raid de La Réunion, it is best to follow this guideline.

Select one or more trail races with a significant elevation gain ratio or long descents to properly simulate the difficulty of the Grand Raid de La Réunion events. Good examples include the 6000D, Verbier Saint Bernard by UTMB, Ultra Tour du Beaufortain, Challenge du Montcalm in the Pyrenees, or on Réunion Island, the Ultra Marathon des Cirques trail race in June and CimasaRun in August. This is far from an exhaustive list!

However, if you are racing the Diagonale des Fous, running UTMB® is not recommended because the gap between the two events is short, usually eight weeks, and only seven weeks in 2023. It is possible, but the risk of injury and overall fatigue is very high. The CCC® (100 km, 6,000 m D+) is already a more suitable preparation race for the Diagonale des Fous.

Test your gear thoroughly before the Grand Raid de La Réunion

As conditions on Réunion Island are often hot and humid during the day, it is essential to thoroughly test your gear in training. Pay particular attention to your shoes, socks, underwear, T-shirt and shorts to avoid chafing.

Your shoes need reliable grip to handle the technical terrain. For clothing, wearing several layers is recommended. For example, a technical base layer T-shirt, a technical long-sleeve layer, plus a waterproof windproof jacket. Check the mandatory kit carefully to avoid any unpleasant surprises when you collect your race bib.

Plan your race strategy

One of the biggest challenges of the Diagonale des Fous is sleep management, with several nights outdoors for most trail runners. On the Diagonale des Fous, it is recommended to take 15- to 20-minute micro-naps from the second day onwards when you are truly exhausted. If possible, plan to sleep at lower points on the course or near an aid station, so you do not end up freezing at the top of a pass.

Whichever Grand Raid de La Réunion race you are running, carefully plan your nutrition and hydration. Make sure you get the right nutritional intake and have tested your strategy during hike-and-run training outings.

Good training should make you ready for race day. When you stand on the start line, you should be able to tell yourself that your preparation has been solid. There is always more you could do, but you should not arrive at the start doubting your ability or regretting that you did not complete the right training to be ready.

And one month before the Diagonale des Fous, it is time to shift from preparation to strategy. How should you manage the first climbs? What pace should you start at to avoid blowing up? When should you hike on the ascents? What split times should you target at the different aid stations? When and how should you fuel?

To help you answer these questions, Race Strategy allows you to create a personalised race plan based on your level and goal. You can visualise your split times, pace and effort management throughout the Diagonale des Fous, arriving on race day with a clear strategy.

Create your Diagonale des Fous race plan one month out and prepare every stage of your ultra with Race Strategy.

We wish you the very best for your adventure on Réunion Island. Take in the spectacular views of the cirques of Cilaos, Salazie and the legendary Mafate cirque! You will quickly understand why the Diagonale des Fous inspires so many trail runners.

If you want to maximise your chances of success and need a personalised Grand Raid de La Réunion training plan for the Diagonale des Fous, Trail de Bourbon, Mascareignes or Zembrocal Trail, download the RunMotion Coach app!

Photo credits: Grand Raid de La Réunion (Facebook)

L’article Diagonale des Fous Training Plan: Grand Raid Guide est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

Running the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon is about more than covering 26.2 miles.

It means crossing part of the City of Angels, from Dodger Stadium to Century City, through some of LA’s most iconic neighbourhoods and landmarks. The 2027 Los Angeles Marathon, also known as the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon, features the “Stadium to the Stars” course, giving runners the chance to discover the city mile by mile.

For 2027, race day is set for Sunday, March 7. The race starts at 7:00 AM at Dodger Stadium, while the finish line awaits on Santa Monica Boulevard at Avenue of the Stars. Runners will have 6 hours and 30 minutes to complete the marathon.

So, what can you expect from this American marathon? How do you register, what is the course like, and how should you prepare for the Los Angeles Marathon?

Los Angeles Marathon 2027: Key Information

Before picturing yourself on the streets of Los Angeles, here are the key details to remember:

The race weekend also includes a 5K and a kids’ race on Saturday, plus a Charity Half Marathon on Sunday.

How to Register for the Los Angeles Marathon

Good news if you want to run the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon: unlike some major international marathons, you do not need to enter a lottery to secure your race entry.

General registration for the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon is open directly through the organiser’s website, subject to availability. The organisers state that registration will close once the race sells out.

You can also take part through Team TMF by committing to fundraising for the organising foundation. For 2027, a fundraising commitment of $725 includes complimentary marathon entry.

If you are considering running the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon, it is best not to leave your registration until the last minute.

A Marathon for Discovering Los Angeles

This is probably one of the race’s biggest draws.

The Stadium to the Stars course starts at Dodger Stadium and runs through several Los Angeles neighbourhoods before reaching Century City and the finish on Santa Monica Boulevard. Over 26.2 miles, runners take in Downtown Los Angeles, Echo Park, Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Brentwood.

The idea is simple: instead of running loops around one area, the marathon lets you cross a significant part of the city.

With roads closed to traffic, enthusiastic spectators and entertainment along the route, the experience is very different from an ordinary sightseeing trip.

Los Angeles Marathon 2027: Is the Course Fast?

The Los Angeles Marathon is not a completely flat marathon.

The course includes elevation change, particularly with uphill sections in the first half of the race. So, avoid starting too fast simply because this is a city marathon.

As with every 26.2-mile race, pacing your effort is essential. The opening miles should help you settle into your rhythm rather than chase time too early. In Los Angeles, as anywhere else, the real marathon often begins after mile 18.

The Final Miles to Century City

This is where the experience can become especially rewarding.

After several hours of running, your legs will start to feel heavy. But the scenery changes and the finish line gets closer. The final miles lead into Century City, finishing on Santa Monica Boulevard.

The marathon ends in a setting that feels very different from the start.

After leaving Dodger Stadium hours earlier, all that is left is to enjoy those final metres, and above all, savour the finish.

A True American Race Atmosphere

The 2027 Los Angeles Marathon is not defined by its course alone.

The organisers announce more than 40 nonprofit cheer zones, over 65 running club activation zones and around 20 entertainment spots spread along the course.

This atmosphere is an essential part of the experience.

For French runners discovering major American marathons, it is also a different way to experience a race, with more entertainment, music and spectators lining the course from start to finish.

Exactly what you need to get moving again when the miles start to hurt.

What Race Strategy Should You Use for the Los Angeles Marathon?

If your goal is a strong finishing time, it is best to build your race progressively.

Your first priority is to avoid struggling through the opening miles.

With the atmosphere, the crowd and the excitement of the start, it can be easy to run faster than planned. Yet the few seconds gained per mile early on can cost you far more after mile 18.

A classic race strategy could be to:

• start slightly slower than your target pace;
• gradually settle into your rhythm;
• stay consistent through the uphill sections;
• wait until mile 18 to accelerate, if your legs are still responding;
• save enough energy for the final miles.

If your goal is simply to enjoy the trip, your strategy can naturally be different.

The Los Angeles Marathon is also a race to experience.

What Finish Time Should You Target in Los Angeles?

Your target time depends above all on your experience and goal. For a first marathon, simply finishing in good shape can be the perfect objective.

For experienced runners, the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon can also be an opportunity to target a new personal best.

The course is officially measured at 26.2 miles, and the 6-hour-30-minute time limit provides plenty of room for runners who primarily want to enjoy the experience.

If you are chasing a specific time, you will of course need to factor the course profile into your pacing plan.

How to Prepare for the Los Angeles Marathon

A marathon cannot be prepared for in just a few weeks.

Your training should progressively develop endurance, the ability to hold a sustained pace and the muscular resilience needed to run efficiently for more than two hours.

Long runs play a major role in marathon preparation.

They help you practise pace management, fuelling and hydration, while also teaching you how to run on tired legs.

For Los Angeles, it can also be worthwhile to include a few sessions with elevation gain, so the rolling sections of the course do not catch you by surprise.

Prepare for Your Marathon with RunMotion

To structure your training, RunMotion marathon training plans allow you to follow a programme tailored to your level and goal. Long runs, marathon pace workouts and endurance training help you build fitness progressively towards race day, while adapting your training load to your profile.

What Gear Should You Bring?

For a city marathon like Los Angeles, there is no need to overload yourself with gear.

The most important thing is to race in equipment you already know:

• marathon-appropriate running shoes;
• an outfit tested in training;
• a GPS watch, if you use one;
• sunglasses;
• a cap if it is sunny;
• personal nutrition, if needed.

Los Angeles weather in early March can be pleasant for running, but conditions can vary. Check the forecast in the days before the race rather than choosing your kit weeks in advance.

The 2027 Los Angeles Marathon Weekend

The race is not limited to Sunday morning.

The Expo and packet pickup will take place at Dodger Stadium on Friday, March 5 and Saturday, March 6, 2027. The Expo will be open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Friday and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday.
Saturday also features the LA 5K and kids’ race.
On Sunday morning, the marathon starts at 7:00 AM.

So, plan your wake-up time carefully, and especially your journey to Dodger Stadium.

The organisers plan to open the stadium car parks from 3:00 AM, with access to the start corrals from 5:00 AM.

Los Angeles Marathon: What Budget Should You Plan?

The entry fee is only one part of the budget to plan for when travelling from France to run the race.

You should also consider:

• flights;
• accommodation in Los Angeles;
• local transport;
• meals;
• travel insurance;
• possible baggage fees;
• race entry and on-site expenses.

But Los Angeles can also become a real travel experience.

After 26.2 miles, why not stay a few extra days to discover the city, Santa Monica, Hollywood or the different neighbourhoods you ran through on race day?

Why Run the 2027 Los Angeles Marathon?

The Los Angeles Marathon may not be the first race that comes to mind when you are planning your race calendar.

Yet it has something that is hard to replicate: running across Los Angeles.

The start at Dodger Stadium, the neighbourhoods along the way, the entertainment and the Century City finish give this race a real identity. You can choose it to chase a fast time, but also for the journey. To discover a huge city in a different way. And, a few hours later, to say that you ran across Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Marathon 2027: Dates to Remember

If Los Angeles appeals to you for 2027, here are the key dates to keep in mind:

Friday, March 5, 2027
→ Expo opens and packet pickup begins.

Saturday, March 6, 2027
→ LA 5K, kids’ race and the second day of packet pickup.

Sunday, March 7, 2027
→ Los Angeles Marathon start at 7:00 AM.

Sunday, March 7, 2027
→ Finish in Century City after 26.2 miles.

The Los Angeles Marathon ultimately offers a uniquely compelling combination: a true sporting challenge and a travel experience.

So, rather than simply visiting Los Angeles, why not discover it to the rhythm of your stride?

L’article Los Angeles Marathon 2027: Course Guide & Tips est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.

There are 100-mile trail races. And then there is the Hardrock 100 2027.

With its 101.8 miles, 33,441 feet of elevation gain and loss, more than 10,000 meters climbed and just as much descended, plus an average elevation above 11,000 feet, the Hardrock 100 is unlike any other race. The route winds through Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, reaching its high point at 14,048 feet on Handies Peak.

But the numbers tell only part of the story. At Hardrock, you need to run for a long time, a very long time, while handling high altitude, technical terrain, mountain weather and, at times, ground where mountain skills matter just as much as endurance.

Then there is the legendary finish in Silverton. After nearly 100 miles, runners do not simply cross a finish line. They must kiss the Hardrock, a boulder painted with a ram.

Welcome to one of the world’s most iconic ultramarathons.

Hardrock 100 2027: What to Expect

The Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run takes place in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado.

The race starts and finishes in Silverton and travels through the areas around Telluride, Ouray and the former mining town of Sherman. The course forms a loop, alternating between 4WD roads, trails and off-trail sections.

Hardrock has been held since 1992, with several editions cancelled over the years due to snow conditions, wildfires or the pandemic. The course direction alternates each year. After a clockwise 2026 edition, the 2027 race will run counterclockwise.

The Numbers That Show the Scale of the Challenge

The figures may vary slightly depending on the organizer’s documents, but the current official race information lists 101.8 miles, 33,441 feet of climbing and descent, and a high point of 14,048 feet.

Why Is the Hardrock So Difficult?

On paper, Hardrock looks like another 100-miler.

On the mountain, it is a completely different story.

The first factor is altitude. The race averages more than 11,000 feet, with numerous stretches above 12,000 feet and a high point above 14,000 feet. Runners regularly climb above 3,600 meters.

At these elevations, the pace you can sustain bears little resemblance to that of an ultra in lower mountains.

The second factor is the terrain. The Hardrock 100 2027 includes huge climbs and descents, scree fields, snowfields in some years, creek crossings and exposed sections. The organization makes clear that mountain skills, navigation and wilderness survival skills can be just as important as endurance.

Finally, there is the weather. And in the high mountains, it can change very quickly.

An Ultra Where the Mountains Are Part of the Race

This is probably the biggest difference between the Hardrock 100 2027 and many other 100-mile races.

The course does not simply offer a huge amount of vertical gain. It takes runners into the high mountains.

The lower sections run through forested terrain, while the stretches above treeline expose runners more directly to wind, cold, thunderstorms and rapidly changing conditions.

The organization notes that temperatures and conditions can vary dramatically between valleys and summits. It therefore recommends carrying equipment that can handle rain, wind and near-freezing temperatures.

This is a race where the weather can reshape your strategy, and sometimes even your ability to keep moving.

The Hardrock 100 Course: Learn It Before Chasing a Time

The race starts in Silverton and forms a large loop through the San Juan Mountains. It passes through or near:

• Lake City;
• Telluride;
• Ouray;
• Sherman;
• several mountain passes between 12,000 and 13,000 feet;
• Handies Peak, the course’s high point.

In total, runners cross 13 major passes between 12,000 and 13,000 feet and go above 12,000 feet 13 times. The course is a relentless succession of climbs and descents. There is never really a moment when you can tell yourself, “the mountains are behind me now.”

Even after several dozen hours of racing, the mountains remain ever-present.

Handies Peak: The Roof of Hardrock

Among the race’s many iconic sections, Handies Peak holds a special place. At 14,048 feet, approximately 4,282 meters, it is the highest point of Hardrock. By then, runners are already deep into an adventure that goes far beyond simply running.

The altitude, potential cold, wind and terrain make every decision count.

Preparing for Hardrock is therefore not just about tracking weekly mileage or vertical gain. You also need to learn how to move confidently in the mountains.

How to Train for Hardrock

Training will naturally depend on your level and experience, but several qualities are essential.

1. Build the Strength for Massive Vertical Gain and Loss

With more than 10,000 meters of climbing and the same amount of descent, the muscular load is enormous. Long climbs matter, but descents matter just as much.

You need to learn to descend when your quads are already fatigued, stay efficient on uneven terrain and preserve enough strength to keep climbing several hours later.

2. Get Used to Long Days in the Mountains

A three-hour mountain run does not replicate Hardrock.

You need to gradually learn to perform efficiently for very long periods. Big training weekends, with two consecutive long runs, can help develop your ability to run on tired legs while testing your nutrition and equipment.

3. Practice Power Hiking

On a course this mountainous, walking is not necessarily a failure. Quite the opposite.

The ability to hike efficiently on steep climbs can save a huge amount of energy. The goal is to find the right balance between running and hiking, rather than trying to run every yard.

4. Prepare for Altitude

This is one of the unique challenges of the Hardrock 100 2027. A runner used to training at sea level or moderate elevation needs to understand that the same sensations will not be there in the San Juan Mountains.

Altitude acclimatization must therefore be planned seriously, especially as the course stays high for much of the race.

5. Learn to Manage the Unexpected

At Hardrock, the weather can force you to adapt.

The organization specifically mentions the possibility of heavy rain, strong winds, near-freezing temperatures and thunderstorms. Snowfields may also be present, depending on the year’s conditions. That is why you need to test your equipment before race day.

Do not wear your waterproof jacket for the first time at 13,000 feet.

To structure your preparation, RunMotion Ultra Trail training plans help you progress with a program tailored to your level and goal. Long runs, endurance development and fatigue management provide a strong foundation for ultra training, then need to be supplemented with specific mountain work for an objective such as the Hardrock 100 2027.

What Gear Should You Bring for Hardrock 100 2027?

The equipment list depends on the year’s conditions and the exact race rules. However, the organization recommends carrying:

• a waterproof jacket;
• waterproof pants;
• gloves;
• an emergency blanket;
• a cap or warm hat;
• sunglasses;
• sunscreen;
• a whistle;
• a headlamp and a backup light;
• spare batteries;
• enough capacity to carry a substantial amount of fluids;
• an emergency calorie reserve.

The organization also recommends taking at least one extra warm layer beyond what you think you will need.

The logic is simple: in the high mountains, gear is not just about comfort. It can be essential for your safety.

48 Hours to Finish Hardrock

Hardrock has a 48-hour cutoff.

That may sound generous compared with some other 100-mile races. But this number needs to be put in context.

The distance exceeds 100 miles. Total elevation change is more than 20,000 meters when climbing and descent are combined. And much of the course stays above 3,000 meters.

Those 48 hours are no gift.

They also account for the race’s unique character and weather conditions that can sometimes force runners to slow down or wait.

Hardrock 100 2027: How to Enter

This is, of course, the question many trail runners ask. In 2027, the race will take place from July 9 to 11, 2027, with the start scheduled for 6:00 a.m. on July 9 in Silverton.

But as with many major American ultras, getting a bib requires going through a specific process.

Applications for the 2027 lottery will be open from October 1 to 14, 2026 through UltraSignup, before the draw scheduled for December 5, 2026. You must also meet Hardrock’s qualification requirements.

And that is not all.

Qualification Is About More Than Finishing an Ultra

Hardrock has one particularly interesting feature: the organization also requires eight hours of service to be eligible to enter.

This service can take different forms:

• organizing an ultramarathon;
• volunteering at an ultramarathon;
• working on a trail used by an ultramarathon;
• taking part in trail-building or trail-maintenance work under the supervision of a qualified organization.

Pacing or crewing for another runner does not count as service. This requirement sums up Hardrock’s philosophy well. The point is not simply to show up and race. You must also give back to the community that keeps ultrarunning and its trails alive.

How Much Does Hardrock Entry Cost?

Entry for the Hardrock 100 2027 is currently listed at $450, plus UltraSignup processing fees. Payment is collected when you apply, and the entry fee is charged if you are selected in the lottery.

For an international runner, you must naturally add travel-related costs:

• flights to the United States;
• transportation to Colorado;
• accommodation;
• possible car rental;
• food;
• your stay before and after the race;
• a possible course-reconnaissance or acclimatization trip.

The total budget for a Hardrock adventure is therefore significantly higher than the entry fee alone.

What If I Get Selected?

That is when the project becomes real.

Imagine this: December 2026, your name appears in the lottery results.

From that moment, you know that in just a few months you will be standing in Silverton, above 9,300 feet, with a 100-mile loop through the San Juan Mountains ahead of you. Your preparation takes on a whole new dimension.

You will need to think about altitude acclimatization.
Elevation gain.
Descents.
Equipment.
Effort management.
Nutrition.

And above all, the experience required to move through the mountains for several dozen hours.

With Race Strategy, RunMotion offers a tool to build your complete race strategy around your time goal and the course profile: pace targets, split times, fueling and hydration strategy, weather forecast and more.

Why Does Hardrock Fascinate So Many Trail Runners?

Because it offers an experience that goes beyond the clock. The Hardrock 100 2027 is not trying to recreate a marathon in the mountains.

It takes runners into an environment where the mountains set the rules. Altitude, weather, technical terrain and isolation make every decision matter.

Then there is the symbolism of the finish. After completing the loop around Silverton, one final act remains.

Kiss the Hardrock.

The boulder bearing the painted ram marks the conclusion of the adventure and is one of the race’s most recognizable images.

Hardrock 100 2027: Key Dates

If Hardrock is your dream race, here are the key dates to remember:

October 1 to 14, 2026
→ 2027 lottery application window.

December 5, 2026
→ lottery drawing.

July 9, 2027
→ Hardrock 100 start in Silverton.

July 9 to 11, 2027
→ race and finish window.

For any runner seriously considering the Hardrock 100 2027, the project begins long before July 2027.

It starts with checking your eligibility, preparing your application, understanding the qualification requirements and anticipating the challenges of altitude.

Hardrock 100 2027: What Type of Runner Is It For?

You do not need to be capable of winning a 100-miler to dream of Hardrock.

But you do need genuine mountain experience, long-distance experience and the ability to manage discomfort. Above all, you need the desire to learn how to move through an environment where running is only one part of the challenge.

Hardrock requires you to know how to run, hike, climb, descend, navigate, manage your effort and adapt your gear. That may be exactly what makes it so fascinating.

The Hardrock 100 2027 is not simply a 100-mile ultramarathon. It is a mountain adventure covering more than 100 miles.

And for those who dream of seeing the ram-painted rock after a long night in the San Juan Mountains, the journey can begin well before the start line.

Perhaps the only question is whether you are ready to put your name in the lottery.

L’article Hardrock 100 2027: Race Guide, Lottery and Training est apparu en premier sur RunMotion Coach.