Last June I attempted to run 100 miles in 24 hours…
I was inspired by David Goggins story and y’all know I love to self experiment. So I thought why not? I didn’t train for very long, only 1 month of running long distances, I was just winging it really. Needless to say, it didn’t quite go according to plan.
You can hear all about how it went on my podcast here!
But basically, in a nut shell, I only ran about 80 miles. So of course I decided I had to do it again! This year I will be running 100 miles in 24 hours June 11th – 12th. I’m really hoping to actually finish all 100 miles this time! So I’ve stepped up my training, my supplements, and approach.
What I’m doing different:
This year, I’ve been training for over 6 months. My weeks usually consist of a sprint interval day, where I sprint for 20 to 30 seconds followed by a 1 minute recovery period. Then I have a hill training day, where I will sprint up hill followed by a slow walk back down. Then I have 2 long runs a week, usually anywhere between 10-25 miles. Sometimes I will throw in something like a bike ride and HIIT training as well as yoga to help with recovery.
Like last year, I’m also planning on being fat adapted by the time I run. But day of I may incorporate some healthy carbs to help fuel me during it.
I’ve also been incorporating supplements to help during these runs. My go to has been either taking a salt pill from Redmond’s Real Salt or taking their new Re-Lyte electrolyte drink. Re-Lyte is WAY better than a lot of electrolyte drinks out there (looking at you Gatorade!) It is made with Real Salt, it’s simple, clean, and real ingredients. No junk or additives like some other products out there…It’s unique in terms of their micro breakdown and their flavor is AWESOME. I’m a big fan of the mixed berry. I’ll sip on this during my runs or even combine it with some BHB’s like from my company Complete Wellness.
What you can do if you want to start running:
No, you do not have to go run 100 miles like I am, especially if you have never ran before! But I do have some tips to help you get started. Running is a great way to incorporate cardio into your exercise routine, help you burn fat, and increase your cardiovascular health. But if you’ve never ran before, I know it can be intimating, you but don’t have to go from 0-100.
Start slow!
Start by running just 1 mile. You don’t even have to run the entire time. Start by running just 1 minute, then recover 1 minute. Each time you run extend your running time a little more, like 1 minute 30 seconds, recover 1 minute, 2 minutes running, 1 minute recovery. Continue to work your way up until you find that you can run for a full mile straight! Then slowly start increasing your milage each week. Apps like Couch to 5K are great tools to help you train.
Get good shoes!
I know running shoes can be pricey, but they really do make ALL the difference. Right now, I alternate between Altra’s and Brooks. Good shoes really help with your recovery and help you avoid injuries like planters fasciitus or shin splints.
Supplement!
Now, supplements are not 100% necessary. But they DO help. Taking an electrolyte drink like Re-Lyte or Redmond’s salt pills really do help with your energy, help avoid cramps, and recovery. And of course always make sure you are drinking enough water during and after your runs.
Accountability!
This is my biggest tip. For me it’s all about accountability, so I know that I am going to have to post on social media to show people my distance and pace, which you can’t fake on these apps. So I know for me, I have to finish the distance I said I was going to do on my previous social media posts. That way I have an audience to stay accountable to. For you, this might look different. You might get yourself a running buddy, someone who will join you or do a race with. So you can keep each other accountable. Post on a social media group that you intend to run X amount miles that day. Tell a friend and ask them to keep you accountable. Whatever it might be, find a way to hold yourself accountable to your goals.
I hope this has helped you! If you want more awesome blogs like this one, check out my friends over at Remond’s new blog! They have tons of great articles like on fasting and exercise recovery. Check ’em out.
Your coach,
Drew
