In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle speaks with Endurance Physio Mike James, who brings a wealth of experience from marathons, Ironmans, and ultra events, offering both scientific and lived perspectives on the rise of ultra running.

The conversation explores the surge in popularity of ultra marathons—why so many runners are skipping traditional distance progressions, the physical and psychological demands of ultras, training strategies, injury risk management, and the value of walk-run strategies and time-on-feet over mileage obsession.

Whether you’re considering your first ultra or looking to train smarter, this episode is packed with nuanced, practical advice from someone who’s seen (and run) it all.

Topics Covered:

Why more runners are skipping straight to ultras

The mental vs physical challenge of ultra distances

Why each ultra is different: terrain, elevation, distance, and format

Planning training based on lifestyle, not ideal circumstances

Importance of "time on feet" vs mileage

Walk/run strategies and their value for race day

Customizing training blocks and weekly frequency

Avoiding injury - risk reduction vs prevention

Why recovery is often more important than more training

Why evidence for injury prevention is weaker than most believe

And lots more! 

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