Multi-stage Race Training Plan

Hi Eric,

I am currently following your Marathon Training plan and looking forward to my race next month. I recently had a rush of blood to the head and entered the Marathon Des Sables 2013. Do you have a multi-stage training plan or any training advice for a multi-stage event like this?

My plan is to run a 35mile trail run in May, a 2 day 38mile/30mile trail race in June/July and a 50miler in August next year to gain some ultra and multi-stage experience. I was planning on using your 50mile programme as preparation for these events. Any advice on what sort of training I ought to follow in between the events as I don't want to have to restart the programme at the beginning each time?

The plan is to then start a programme towards running the MDS in April/May 2013. Unfortunately my training is going to be through the UK winter so heat acclimatisation is going to be a challenge. Any advice greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Warren

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Permalink Reply by Eric Orton on August 22, 2011 at 5:10pm

Hi Warren,

Keep us posted on how your marathon goes next month and thanks for your interest in my training plan.

Since you have been training for the marathon, I would take some time off after the marathon to recover. This is so important, especially with all that you have planned for 2012. Your body needs this time to restore. This might mean 3-4 weeks on non-structured runs - just having fun with some short distance efforts.
I would then plant to start the 50 mile plan so it appropriately matches your Aug 50 mile date and use the 35 mil race as a training race - as part of your training. This might be a little soon relative to what is assigned, but you should be OK, if you get consistent again with running after your time off.

You just need to make sure you manage your expectations for this race and view it as experience and knowledge. I think a big mistake would be to train really hard for the May race and then try to do more leading into your Aug 50 miler.

I would look to focus on your strength during Nov-Feb. This will keep your consistent, build strength and speed leading into your 50 mile plan.

Hope this helps - E

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Permalink Reply by Warren Butler on August 23, 2011 at 12:54am

Hi Eric,

thanks for the quick response and covering my training needs for next year. As regards the Marathon Des Sables in 2013 would the 50mile training plan be sufficient with a little more emphasis on back to back runs or do you plan on making a specific multi-stage programme available? Given the increasing popularity in these events I would expect there to be quite a bit of interest in this type of training plan.

Very much looking forward to my marathon and finally feel like I am getting the knee drive and high cadence working well. I have found your drills/videos and programme invaluable in changing from a heelstriker to forefoot runner. I'll keep you posted.

Warren