One of the biggest challenges of a stage race is getting the right backpack. Here I explore what your criteria should be, how to test a good backpack and give some recommendations based on experience. A stage race is a race over two or more days, and they are typically ‘self-supported’ – this means … Read more
Gaiters are designed to prevent sand, dirt and other debris from entering your shoe. They fix onto your shoes and come in a few different designs. Gaiters are certainly not required for every type of race – however, if you are venturing into the desert (Marathon des Sables, some of the 4 Deserts series) … Read more
Socks are easily overlooked, but they are probably the second-most important piece of kit for runners, right after your shoes. Poor sock choice can lead to all kinds of foot conditions. Some common issues caused by incorrect sock choice include: blisters due to friction, moisture, heat and toes rubbing. Getting a good pair of socks … Read more
Running shorts. Every runner needs a pair, and while you can usually get away with any old pair of shorts when you start out, once you start doing long distance runs it’s a good idea to invest in a dedicated pair of running shorts. This article looks are what to consider in terms of short … Read more
I find that running is a great way to read more books on the move. Reading is one of my favourite past-times – along with running – but I sometimes struggle to find the time to sit down and focus on a good book. So instead, I load up my iPhone or old iPod … Read more
Foot care is a subject all distance runners should know about, preferably before they suffer from foot problems! No matter how well you’ve prepared and conditioned your feet prior to your run, you can’t predict what’s going to happen when you’re out on the trails. During distance running events, many competitors have foot … Read more
Hydration for runners levels explained here! Keeping yourself hydrated is important during long runs, but that doesn’t mean you should just drink as much water as you can. There’s an appropriate amount to drink – not too little, not too much. Salt balance is also important – as we sweat, our body loses salt … Read more
A solid training plan is your key to marathon or half marathon success, plain and simple. By first setting your goals and then designing a training plan to suit those goals, you are laying out a roadmap to success – then all you have to do is follow the roadmap. In this blog, I’ll walk … Read more
The Global Limits ‘Last Secret’ race is a six-stage 200km race through the unique kingdom of Bhutan. Here, Colin Harper shares his epic account of the race in the Land of Happiness . . . (Warning: ultra-length post ahead!) The Global Limits series of stage races are a well-established set of adventure running through … Read more
Stage races (also called multi-stage races) are completely different animals from regular, one-day races. Be it the Marathon des Sables, a 4 Deserts race or any of the other stage races popping up, you have to be able to run well over several days – which takes a lot of training and conditioning. Here, … Read more
For runners, cross training means doing any type of exercise which compliments your running training. Almost any form of work out or exercise will complement your running fitness, though some are better than others. Here, I explore the different options runners have when it comes to cross training – and which ones will have a … Read more
Running at altitude comes with it’s own set of rules. Altitude affects runners in different ways – shortness of breath is common, and dizziness or nausea are possible. Older runners tend to get affected easier than younger. Some runners are interested in training to run races at high altitude, while others use altitude training … Read more
A Stage race is a foot race that takes place over more than one day – or stage. They typically cover between two and six stages. Given there are so many stage races with different formats and elements, it’s a wide field to try and categorise. So here is a brief overview of what … Read more
Ash Mokhtari has run the 4 Deserts ‘Atacama Crossing’ 250km stage race every year since 2009. Here, he talks about the otherworldly setting of the event, challenging personal boundaries and what to expect when you head to the driest place on earth . . .
Looking for a multi-day adventure race in a far flung destination? Here’s our pick of the best stage races in the world right now . . .
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