Features of training runners for ultramarathon distances

The study aimed to analyse the peculiarities of training athletes in preparation for an ultramarathon race. The study addressed the three phases of preparation for sports competitions – transition and recovery, the central training phase and the main competitive phase – and included a sample of 174 participants from Europe and other countries. The study revealed physiological and psycho-emotional characteristics of ultramarathon participants that distinguish them from participants in races at different distances and determine the peculiarities of the training process. These features include a lower body mass index of ultramarathon runners and an active desire to reduce it to achieve better results, a higher average age of ultramarathon participants, previous experience in other sports, and the integration of certain sports, mainly summer sports, into the process of training for a long-distance race. Based on the profiles of 65 participants who were preparing for an ultra-marathon race, the following training strategies were analysed: preliminary analysis of an athlete’s profile to individualise training efforts; planning a sports season with three phases of training (recovery, preparation and competition) or a double training cycle; a combination of continuous low-intensity running and interval training; use of tracks with different surfaces to adapt to mechanical stress; parallel training in other sports to improve athletes’ stability and endurance skills; ensuring long and quality sleep to prevent cognitive and psycho-emotional exhaustion of the competitors. The recommendations can be applied to the further development of the marathon movement in the country and abroad