Ticking off six 100km+ ultramarathons in three months, Cpl Ryan Day (QRH) shares three of the lessons learnt while pushing his body to the limit…
Prep, prep and more prep
What are you going to take? What is the weather forecast? Nutrition, sleep, water and electrolyte intake are among many factors that should be planned for the day, as well as the week beforehand. Going in ill-prepared, even with the micro things, can have a big impact.
Listen to your body
This is something I had to rely on – and still need to keep learning. Putting so much stress and kilometres on the body has a big impact. Picking up cues early will save you in the long run. Feeling rubbing on a toe? Stop and check those feet. Feeling slight discomfort? Then slow down – it might be hard, but it will save you in the long term.
The weather
From scorching hot sun to the heavens opening, the weather over the past three months has gone from one extreme to another. Did I prep for that? Sort of. But your level of preparation can lead to great success or great disappointment. From planning what clothing to take to the pace you are running at, be smart.
Cpl Day was raising money for the Army Benevolent Fund. Donations can still be made at justgiving.com/page/ryan-day-2
