this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, we're joined by ultra runners, authors, and adventurers Jen & Sim Benson. They share stories of epic challenges, why ultras feel like “supported adventures,” and how the community makes the sport so special.

We also dive into their brand-new book, Ultra: The World Atlas of Ultramarathons — a beautifully curated guide to iconic and lesser-known races around the globe. Whether you’re dreaming of UTMB, curious about Mongolia’s remote ultra, or wondering if you really can walk a 100k, this episode has insights and inspiration for every trail runner.

Topics covered:

Jen & Sim’s journey from road marathons and climbing to ultras (00:23)
Why ultras are “adventures with support” (03:26)
Races that stood out, including Arc of Attrition 100 and TDS at UTMB (01:26, 06:57)
Inside their new book Ultra — and how they chose which races made the cut (09:01, 13:36)
Bucket-list ultras from Mongolia to the Trans-Alpine (15:02)
Advice for first-time ultra runners: why it might not be as scary as it sounds (17:01)
Walking an ultra — and why it might just be the best way to finish strong and avoid blisters (19:19)
Navigation skills and mountain craft (23:47)
Mental preparation, mindfulness, and dealing with “bad patches” (28:07)
Future races and writing projects (34:30)
The future of ultra running and community growth (40:02)

Links:

Jen & Sim Benson on Instagram: @jenandsim
Ultra: The World Atlas of Ultramarathons
Jen’s book The Path She Runs

Leonidas Arkona über Name, Beruf, Anfänge, Kraftwerte, Strength Wars, Strongman, Bodybuilding uvm.

GANNIKUS Podcast

Gedanken zu Bodybuilding und eventuellem Wechsel

The AI-powered Podcast Player