The London marathon is an iconic event that encourages thousands of people to start running, some even to raise money for charity. 36 years after the first race was held, record numbers of around 254,000 people entered the ballot to run in April 2017, out of whom only 50,000 got a place. Marathon running has greatly increased in popularity since the first event in London, and it has become a common, though still admired, feat for someone to have completed one.  

However, some people decide to take it to the next level: the ultramarathon. As the name suggests, this is a longer, harder, and therefore more extreme version of the original marathon. In contrast to the normal distance of just over 42 kilometres, most ultramarathons range from around 50km to 200km. Also, while marathons are usually road races, an ultramarathon (sometimes shortened to just ‘ultra’) can take place in mountains, deserts, or even snowy terrain, and can take anything from 1 day to 7 days to complete. This requires a lot more stamina and preparation than the normal marathon. Most would congratulate and admire such a great accomplishment but a few have voiced their concerns about the potential risks involved.

It is argued by many that ultramarathons are more enjoyable than marathons, because it isn’t as much of a competition as a marathon, and because it is a much more pleasant environment to be in. In contrast to the harsh tarmac of a road race, ultramarathons usually take place in natural surroundings. Numerous studies show that nature is very good for us, and exercising in these types of environment can give us a psychological boost. On the other hand, it can be unappealing, as it can get very muddy if it rains, and all the equipment becomes dirty. Also, the feet of the runners can get very battered and damaged, and their toenails can fall off after running an ultra. The cost is, however, a greater problem for some, because, the longer and more advanced the run is, the more equipment and food is needed. The race itself has to be paid for and, on top of all this, it may be necessary to travel quite a way to get to the starting point (though there are actually ultramarathons in and around big cities which could allow people who live in them to avoid this problem). 

However, the biggest concern isn’t to do with the discomforts of an ultra. It can be very dangerous if someone attempts an ultramarathon that they aren’t yet ready for, haven’t done the right training for, or don’t have the correct equipment for. In the longer ultras, which extend over several days, this is a big worry. Especially in winter months, there have been many cases across different ultramarathons of people dropping out because of the severe difficulty, or due to broken bones, hypothermia, or other types of illnesses. In some of the world’s toughest races, there have even been deaths. You just have to know your limits.

On the whole, if undertaken with caution, it appears that ultramarathons can be very good for you, both mentally and physically, and are extremely enjoyable. More and more people are beginning to participate in them. Nik, a 51-year-old running enthusiast from London, who has taken part in several marathons, ultramarathons and even triathlons, said “Ultra running, when done with proper training and preparation is great fun, good for the physical and mental condition, and a real adventure”.   

By Raya Milushev, Newstead Wood School