My First Ultra
Written By LEON BUSTIN
Leon, one half of the infamous Lean Machines was formerly known for his focus on Crossfit style training. That was until he heard about Ultra X! Since being tempted in by our Community and Partnerships manager Hannah, there’s been no looking back.
What has your training looked like?
HEAVY! l was very active before training for Sri Lanka that’s for sure, but with my background being more CrossFit based there was a huge shift in not only CV volume but structure to my week as well. I went from doing maybe one 5 or 10km run per week, 1x swim and 3-4 weightlifting/ conditioning sessions to 7 running sessions per week and 2 weightlifting sessions. The running has looked as you would expect: 80% low and slow with a weekend scheduled long run to practice fuelling. Then a mixture of hill and variable interval sessions to build strength, technique and overall capacity.
What are you most looking forward to?
I can’t wait to just be part of it, arriving in camp that first night I’m going to be like a kid at Christmas! But if l could pick a single moment I’m most looking forward to, day one around 5km in. Because at this point l will be able to take a deep breath and appreciate the fact that it IS happening, l am here and doing it!
Is there anything you’re worried about?
Nothing that l would say is really worrying me. I know it’s going to be the toughest challenge I’ve ever done so with that in mind it’s hard to fear failing or not completing it etc. I just want to do the best l can and be proud of my efforts.
Which day do you think you’ll enjoy the most?
For the above reasons most probably day one. But otherwise, l think day five will be a huge thrill not only because it’s the last day, but knowing that the 70+ day is over will be a huge feeling.
Is there anything you would have changed about your training?
Nothing at all. I have enjoyed the whole process and given it my all. If l was to change anything, maybe l would’ve given myself more time.
Biggest lesson learned?
To back myself a little more!
Have you enjoyed the process?
Corny as it may sound, this process has been life changing. It’s not just about the run anymore, l feel I’m a totally different person to the one who started this.
Has it been what you expected?
In a word YES 1000% It’s been tough, both physically and mentally. There’s been a lot of juggling work, family and training, and it’s been a lot of fun. Which is pretty much what l expected.
0 Comments
Submit a Comment
You may also like…
Nutrition for a hot ultra marathon
To perform well at any ultra requires not only fitness but clever fuelling. How can you do this in the heat? Find out here,
Ultra X Wales 2022 – Race Preview
We are now just a few days away from the 2nd Edition of Ultra X Wales! This is our only 250km event on UK shores and the stage is set for 2022’s race to be even more exciting than before.
This article will give you an insight on the course that lies ahead for our runners, as well as giving you an insight into some of the competitors stepping up to the start line this year. We’ll also outline the all-important World Championships Points that are up for grabs…
Ultra X World Championships 2022 – Race Director’s Report
The inaugural Ultra X World Championships showcased the best of the best ultra runners as they took on the challenging trails of Slovenia. This report focuses on the front end of the field, this is after all the World Championships, but that is not to play testament to the entire class of 2022. There are not enough words available for us to do justice to every individual who made this event what it was. Everyone who makes it to the start line of one of these events is an absolute champion.
0 Comments