Mountain ultras aren’t just longer trail races.
They’re repeated strength tests disguised as endurance events.
In this episode, we break down how to actually train for a mountain ultra, beyond just “running hills” and hoping for the best.
We cover:
The real difference between aerobic endurance and muscular endurance
Why long climbs and descents break runners before fitness does
How and why to train uphill running, steep hiking, and transitions
When weighted uphill sessions make sense and how to use them properly
The role of short hill sprints in mountain durability
What strength work actually supports mountain racing
How to train for mountains when you don’t live near mountains
This is not about doing more miles or chasing vert for the sake of it.
It’s about building legs that can keep working when the race gets long, steep, and uncomfortable.
Mountain ultras don’t reward who trains the hardest.
They reward who trains the smartest.
If you want help structuring mountain training properly, that’s exactly what we do inside Peak Endurance Coaching. DM me on Instagram @peakendurancecoaching or comment 'ready' or 'coach' on any of my posts or email me isobel@peakendurancecoaching.com.au
Train for what the race will actually demand.