If your phys is testing you to the limit, spare a thought for Cpl Ryan Day (QRH) who will be spending his spring/summer weekends conquering seven different ultramarathons around the UK.
Okay, the feat is 100 per cent self-inflicted. But that doesn’t mean it will be straightforward – as the runner admitted when Soldier visited him during one of his training sessions in Bovington, where he is posted.
“I had a knee injury last year, so my physio wasn’t too happy when I said I wanted to do this,” the 28-year-old smiled.
“I’ve done marathons before – usually I do around two per season – but this will be a massive step up.
“I love running, especially the longer distances, and wanted to go for something more.”
This mission will certainly hit that target – starting with the Isle of Wight Challenge next month, and ending with the Gower Peninsula Ultra in July.
In June the super-fit Serviceman will compete in the Peak District where his family will cheer him on.
Preparations have included the use of a private nutritionist – to check that his favourite meals of salmon, chicken, rice and steak are giving him the best possible start – and a training schedule of six runs per week.
This includes a tempo session, interval run, two easy runs, a long run on Saturdays and a more moderate run on Sundays.
The junior NCO also hits the gym five times a week, focusing on his lower body with dumbbells, bench and ab work.
“When running, you put about four times your bodyweight through your feet,” he said. “So I need to take account of that.”
As well as the workouts, Day is hoping his £200-a-pair Hokas will help nudge him over the finish line. With the miles he is currently putting through his footwear, he is having to replace them every 12 weeks or so.
Good planning will be key, though, as the soldier has only completed one ultramarathon before now – Keswick to Barrow which, at a ‘mere’ 64km, is considerably shorter than any of his upcoming challenges.
The runner paid tribute to his colleagues and especially his regiment – The Queen’s Royal Hussars – for their support, which comes at the end of a difficult period.
“I suffered with an eating disorder and mental health problems, and was even in critical care at one point, but the whole Army welfare system supported me so well through it all,” he revealed.
“You hear horror stories when welfare doesn’t work, but my regiment really had my back and fought for me to keep my job.”
Running played a big role in Day’s recovery.
“It really helped me through that because if I run, I need to be refuelling,” he continued.
“I also have to be in tune with my body.
“I love longer runs – they are my chance to clear my head and organise my thoughts.
“When I’m struggling, it helps to take a step away and allow thoughts to come and go. It’s a coping mechanism as well as a health one; a kind of meditation.”
Day recommends long distances to anyone looking for an outlet, as well as those wanting to boost their fitness.
“There are lots of people in the block who will isolate themselves, especially if they’re single,” he said. “That’s when your mental health can go down.
“But I’ve found something I’m good at and which helps me – that means a lot.”
The Serviceman wants to raise £500 for the Army Benevolent Fund and is asking anyone who can sponsor him to do so at justgiving.com/page/ryan-day-2
He added: “The Army is one big family, and this charity really helps us to look after one another and get that support.”
Name: Cpl Ryan Day, QRH
Age: 28
Joined: 2016
Ops: Cabrit
Height: 174cm
Marathon record: 2hr 56min 56sec
Best 5km: 16min 17sec
Best 2km: 6min 7sec
Top run: Rome marathon – so beautiful!
Fave food: Salmon
Fuel: Styrkr electrolytes and Spartan Protein
Top tip for newbies: Just show up
