Why Having a Race to Train For Keeps Ultramarathon Runners Motivated
Choose a race to get you motivated
Getting up in the morning to go and do your training helps when you have a race to train for.
My Early Motivation as a Marathon Runner
Since I started running marathons and beyond in the year 2000 I've always found most motivated when training for a particular race. In the early days I was inexperienced and didn’t properly put together a training phase. As time went by, I started downloading four month marathon training programs, then printing them off and sticking them on my fridge. Each training run I would cross off and would feel accomplished for the rest of the day. Also, I could see what lay ahead and what I had to do. As each week passed by I got closer to the particular marathon or Ultra Marathon and eventually race day arrived.
Check out one of my other blogs about Hardrock 100 Ultra Marathon
Why a Race Goal Keeps Ultramarathon Runners Focused
For ultramarathon runners, training can feel endless — long miles, early mornings, tired legs, and constant planning. But one of the most powerful ways to stay consistent and motivated is to have a race on the calendar.
When you commit to a specific event, your training suddenly has purpose and structure. Each long run, strength session, and recovery day becomes a step toward something tangible — not just another week of mileage.
Benefits of Training for a Specific Race
Stay disciplined during tough training blocks
Measure progress as race day approaches
Stay excited about your running journey
Push your limits and discover what you’re truly capable of
Iconic Races to Inspire Your Training
Even experienced ultrarunners benefit from this focus. Without a race ahead, training can lose direction — motivation drifts, and progress plateaus. Having an event on the horizon helps you train smarter, stay accountable, and ultimately perform better when it matters most.
Whether it’s a local 50K or a multi-day trail epic, choose your next race, mark it on the calendar, and let it guide your training. A clear goal brings clarity, purpose, and drive — the essentials of any successful ultramarathon build-up.
Final Thoughts and Coaching Support
So take it from me I've run over 150 official marathons and Ultra marathons. And it's been an exciting journey each time. I choose a race and train for it. If you do need help with your training, I offer online Ultra Marathon Run Coaching. Check out my prices here.
If you're interested in exploring Coaching with me, go to my contacts page here and let's arrange a FREE 15 minute consultation.
