Back to Back runs - how do I train for that?

[Whatsapp]

I have got my second HM coming up in a couple of weeks and as usual I am already starting to consider: what next?

I had, up-till-now been quite keen on the Run Gatwick HM, but in order to get up for that, I need to complete Eastbourne in 2hrs or less (why? Because that's the target I set myself, and as runners I'm sure you know that is reason enough LOL), however, looking at my training paces I'm not sure this will be achievable this time.

So, I turn to another of my running bucket list goals. The Mid-Sussex Marathon. This event in run over three consecutive days in three towns in Mid-Sussex to cover an overall marathon distance. Sat -10mile/Sun -10 mile/Mon -10k. Mostly on trails.

So aside from the obvious fact I am going to have to start training on trails, my question is: How do you (I) train to run for three days consecutively?

I know one or two of you on here have done this very race, and I'm sure many of you have indulged in multi-race weekends - so hopefully you will be able to enlighten me.

[Pete1w]

I have no idea how you would go about training for something like that but if you decide to go for it I wish you all the luck in the world..

[Whatsapp Half Marathon in reply to Pete1w]

Thank you Pete1w

[roseabi Ultramarathon]

Can't say fairer than - start planning some back-to-back training runs! 😊

[Whatsapp Half Marathon in reply to roseabi]

Thanks Abi. I'll have 9 weeks so I guess I just build up the back to back mileage...

[Lordi Marathon]

The total distance is not too great spread over 3 days and the short rest your legs will get each evening will do wonders. So I don't think it is a huge issue for someone with a runner's undercarriage like you! The issue might be terrain and the weather? Hilly, muddy, styles or fences to negociate? Getting soaked frozen three days in a row? That could be quite wearing. Have you got 3 sets of running gear?

[Whatsapp Half Marathon in reply to Lordi]

Thanks Lordi. Yes, I didn't think about the kit. I have enough but not spare, so a trip to the shops is in order. I guess I will need to be quite regimented with my diet over those few days too.

[misswobble Marathon]

Running a tricky trail regularly is really good for getting you fitter and able to run longer They are exhausting but good practice As are hills 💪. Combine with good food/drink and sleep. You might want to incorporate some gym if you’ve time

To be able to run consecutively depends on fitness You need to be positive too 😃👍. It’s got to be fun. you have to love it

I’m older than you but I’ve been doing consecutive runs for a while now. A long run followed by a short run the day after, then a run the following day, eg 16k, 5k, 8k The third run being half as long as the first one. The long one could be at pace, the second one just a recovery jog, and the third somewhere between the two I do marathon training on my trail and I find when I get back on the road it feels easier

This trio of runs cropped up on the free trial of runkeeperGo training plan. I was doubtful I could do it but I’ve been doing it for a while now 🙂

Good luck with it all 😃👍🏃‍♂️

[Whatsapp Half Marathon in reply to misswobble]

Thank you. That gives me a really good example of exactly what my consecutive runs should be. I will have to start looking at good local trail routes as this is something I have never done before.

[Colinsmith Half Marathon in reply to misswobble]

Thanks misswobble, that’s really useful to hear. I think I’m at the point where I could step up my frequency but it’s hard to know when to let go of the ‘rest day’ mantra and feel safe doing so.

Good luck with your runs WhatsApp - clearly I have no useful advice, but it’s an interesting post!

[Whatsapp Half Marathon in reply to Colinsmith]

There is not a great deal of advice anywhere on the internet for this - other than why you shouldn't run the day after a marathon. However, some useful advice as ever by our friends on here.

[misswobble Marathon in reply to Whatsapp]

I run the day after my marathon. Just a 5k recovery run, so slow and laconic I was a bit shocked when it appeared on the plan but i went with it (as yer do) and was ok After a night's rest it felt fine to go out and give them a bit of a stretch I suppose if something was wrong you wouldn't do it

[Whatsapp Half Marathon in reply to misswobble]

Wow, you are a woman of steel. I couldn't walk properly the day after my last HM!

[misswobble Marathon in reply to Whatsapp]

Yeah but I didn't run it very fast. LOL

[Lordi Marathon]

Yes, this rest day mantra is something I've just take for granted since c25k and I'd never even thought of running consecutive days much before now! I think I've continued with it quite unthinkingly as sensible (I'm not getting any younger). I'll need to dabble with it more from now on though as I've got the possibility to go run/walking in Spain this spring (Camino de Santiago). I had this mad idea around Christmas time to do 20-30km per day on the Camino (5k warm-up walk, 10k 15k or HM run, 5k cool down walk) every day for a month! We will see.

[Whatsapp Half Marathon in reply to Lordi]

Wow! That would be an amazing achievement. Very tough though.