This is how an ultramarathon runner preps for race day

Ultramarathon runner Sophie Power knows a thing or two about stamina.

She caught the world’s attention back in 2018, after a photograph of her breastfeeding her three-month-old baby during the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) went viral. Since then, she’s been setting PBs in both her all-terrain runs and her work to level the ground for female runners.

We caught up with her to find out how she prepares for race day, so we can smash through those punishing final miles with the same success.

adidas arc’teryx norvan waterproof jacket

Run for fun

‘Each year, I’ll probably have two big race targets but I do a few extra as training – and for fun. This year, my main focus is the IAU 24-hour European Championships in September, but before then I’ve got the South Downs Way 100, the Grand Tour of Skiddaw 40-miler in the Lake District, and the Impact Marathon on the Isle of Mull, which are for enjoyment.’

Test your kit

‘I test running gear out before races, so my choices don’t let me down. I’m currently doing most of my training in my adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2.0 trainers – they're comfortable on the road and responsive on trails. My runs vary between the two, so having a hybrid shoe works perfectly – especially as I usually run straight from the school hike. And I really like how the Gore-Tex material keeps my feet dry through wet grass.

‘Other must-haves are my EVB shorts, which support my core and pelvic floor, my Garmin Fēnix 6 smartwatch, and my Arc’Teryx Norvan waterproof jacket.’

Complement your running training

‘I have Raynaud’s [a circulation condition], so you won’t get me racing in the cold, but training is similar whatever the season – I just have to maintain my mileage, and not forget all-round strength training.

‘Race-specific training takes a few months. For the UTMB, I did a lot of upper-body work, such as pull-ups and bar dips, during and after my pregnancy, so I could use my poles to good effect, as well as strengthening my quads to handle the descents. For my last 24-hour track race, I ran mostly on roads, with three bigger sessions (of around 20 miles) on the track beforehand to test kit and nutrition.’

Choose your fuel carefully

‘I’ve started using the Supersapiens glucose monitor to help me carb-load more effectively. It’s helped me eat better in the days leading up to the race, as well as during it.

‘During a race, I always use Veloforte bars, gels and chews – I love the flavours. And I usually run with a hydration pack. It can get sweaty but the back mesh panel of my adidas Terrex Agravic T-shirt keeps me cool. It’s a sustainable choice too, as 50% is made with upcycled ocean plastic, thanks to adidas’s partnership with Parley.’

Mentally prepare

‘On the start line of the Spartathlon in 2016, I felt 100% mentally ready. On paper, the odds were against me: I was the slowest qualifier and only woman on the 25-strong British team – for a race that only about half the participants finish each year.

‘But my coach back then, Robbie Britton, gave me a pep talk the day before, highlighting my strengths: my endurance, mental resilience and ability to endure sleeplessness as a mother! I learnt so much from him, and now consider reasons for failure – if I can control them, I do; if I can’t, I don’t worry about them.’

Believe in yourself

‘Having a positive race-day experience depends on so many things. Ultras are notorious for underrepresentation of female athletes – and events such as UTMB, under 10% representation. There are many barriers, but the first steps for race organisers should be to make marketing inclusive and race cut-offs more generous.

‘I’ve just launched a campaign called SheRaces to get more women on the start line, ensure they have better experiences and are treated more equitably – from pregnancy deferrals and female-fit T-shirts to our competition being held in equal regard.’