Run to the Sea!! Bring it on. That is what we are building towards here. Training points? Up from 95 points per week to 119 per week. So a decent jump.

I used to have a template for all my training plans that I would tweak ever so slightly depending on the runner. It would include intervals, a long run and at least one easy run. How times have changed.

Now I feel like I adapt far more to the individual, their goals and what they enjoy. So I know you like to keep busy, there would be no point me setting you 3 runs per week and calling that a plan. Yes we do have 3 runs per week on average (2.9 to be precise) but there is a whole lot more to this plan than just running. In fact the average number of “sessions” across this 20 week plan is 7.05 per week.

Thursday Bimble is of course a staple of the plan and then we have the weekend long runs. We max out at 4 hours, but to be honest, for that run I would pick a trail and take your time. Even if you only cover something like 18 miles, it’s more about time on feet.

There are some back to back long run weekends. This has worked really well for all of my ultra runners and is chance to practice running on tired legs without overdoing things.

ASPT every Monday and I’ve created a new leg session for the gym. The stronger the legs are, the better you will fair on the ultra, so I think it’s important we do some additional strength work in the gym to build up those muscles. Any problems with that just let me know.

The rest of the points are made up cross training. Now to be honest this can vary from one week to the next. There are lots of options now, spin class, stair climber, rowing, swimming or the elliptical.

I’ve found spin to probably have the most impact on the legs. So if problems do occur perhaps remove the spin class for another form of cross training.

But as long as we hit those targets for the week that is what really matters. Being consistent from one week to the next. Stretching too can also help.

I really like this training plan though and hopefully it will give you even more longevity once the ultra has been ticked off, and you should find your running improves as we’ve increased the points by 20%.