Conquering The Lap Ultra: A Coach-Athlete Journey

Coaching an athlete to success in an ultra-distance event is as much about mental resilience as it is about physical readiness. Recently, I had the privilege of guiding one of my long-term athletes Alex Martin, to the finish line of The Lap Ultra, a challenging 47 mile race with 3000m of ascent in the stunning but demanding Lake District, with a 24hr cut off. Here’s a look at his experience, our preparation process, and the insights gained along the way.

Preparation: A Tailored Approach to Training

Training for an event like this demands a meticulous plan. Alex followed a plan tailored to his needs, which included progressive long runs, specific strength and conditioning sessions by myself, and a targeted nutrition strategy by Graeme Woodward. As the race approached, he used long runs to experiment with gear and refine his nutrition plan. Breaking the race into manageable sections allowing Alex to mentally prepare for each phase of the journey, an approach that proved vital on race day.

Choosing the Lakeland Lap Ultra

The draw of the Lake District and the race’s reputation drew Alex to this particular event. Having never visited the area, he was captivated by the stunning landscapes featured in the race. The challenge was formidable, but that only added to its appeal, a chance to push beyond familiar boundaries and conquer a renowned ultra marathon.

Coaching: The Right Fit

Our coaching relationship was built on open communication and adaptability. Understanding the specific demands of The Lap Ultra was crucial, and I crafted a plan designed to prepare him both physically and mentally. We regularly assessed progress, and adjustments were made as needed to keep the training aligned with his evolving needs.

The coaching approach suited him perfectly because it relieved him of the burden of decision-making during training. He could focus all his energy on executing the plan, confident that every session had a purpose.

Why Get a Coach?

Before deciding to work with me, Alex had struggled with setbacks, including kidney issues and recurring knee problems. Approaching his 50th birthday, he realized that a new approach to training was necessary. Faced with the choice of giving up or finding a coach, he chose the latter—a decision that changed the trajectory of his running journey.

From 10K to Ultra

When he began coaching with me, his longest distance was 10km, and he aspired to complete a half marathon. Over two and a half years, we methodically increased his endurance, incorporating structured S&C, managing running volume, and emphasising recovery. While initially resistant to S&C, he committed to the process and followed the plan diligently. The transformation was remarkable, culminating in the completion of the 77km Lakeland Lap Ultra.

Alex states his injury-free streak is due to the carefully designed training process, which identified and addressed weaknesses. It wasn’t easy—the sessions were tough, and the long runs were demanding. But the effort paid off, proving that patience and trust in the process can yield extraordinary results.

The Race Experience

The Lakeland Lap Ultra proved to be both exhilarating and testing right from the start. Beginning in darkness and rain, the early kilometers were congested, resulting in unexpected queuing and slower progress. The challenge was not just physical but also mental—remaining calm and positive despite time slipping away. As the ground became increasingly wet and slippery, maintaining a consistent pace required sheer determination. Yet, amidst these difficulties, Alex found joy in the race’s atmosphere and the breathtaking scenery that made every step worthwhile.

Community and Support

Training for an ultra marathon is often a solitary endeavour, but the sense of community can be a powerful motivator. Our coaching group fosters a supportive environment where athletes share experiences, encourage one another, and learn from each other. Alex credits this community for helping him navigate a period of poor mental health, offering support that extended beyond just physical training.

Final Thoughts

Coaching isn’t just about providing a training plan; it’s about understanding the athlete, adapting to their needs, and guiding them through the ups and downs of the journey. The Lap Ultra was more than just a race; it was a testament to the power of personalised training, resilience, and the pursuit of new challenges. For both Alex and myself, this journey reinforces why we do what we do—to continually push the limits, overcome obstacles, and emerge stronger on the other side.