The Raw Reality of Ultra Running: Beyond the Instagram Filters
Ultra running. Scrolling through Instagram, you see stunning landscapes, smiling faces, and inspirational quotes. But behind those carefully curated images lies a raw reality, a side of ultra running that isn't always shared on social media. It's a world of bodily functions, mental battles, and a level of discomfort that few other sports can match. It's not always pretty, but it's real. And it's a part of what makes ultra running so uniquely challenging and rewarding.
Let's talk about vomiting. It's not uncommon in ultras, especially during the early stages when the body is adjusting to the demands of the distance. The combination of exertion, nutrition, and sometimes, the sheer stress of the event can lead to a sudden and involuntary expulsion of whatever's in your stomach. It's not pleasant, but it's often a rite of passage, a sign that you're pushing your body to its limits.
Then there's the death march. That point in the race, usually somewhere in the middle, where your legs feel like lead, your mind is foggy, and every step is a struggle. It's the point where you question your sanity, where you wonder why you ever signed up for this torture. But it's also the point where true grit is forged, where you dig deep and find the reserves of strength you never knew you had. It's the death march that makes the finish line so sweet.
Sleepwalking is another common phenomenon. During multi-day events, or even in the later stages of a long ultra, sleep deprivation can take its toll. Runners have been known to hallucinate, have conversations with imaginary people, and even fall asleep while running (briefly!). It's a surreal experience, a testament to the extreme demands of these races.
And let's not forget about the dirt. Ultra runners get dirty. Really dirty. Days spent on the trails mean days without showers, days of sweat, mud, and dust accumulating on your body. You might go days without a proper wash, and your clothes… well, let's just say they'll have stories to tell. But it's all part of the adventure, a badge of honor earned through the miles and the grime.
And finally, there's the call of nature. When you're spending hours on the trail, you're bound to need to answer nature's call. And sometimes, that means going number one or two in the woods. It's not glamorous, but it's a reality of the sport. Leave no trace, of course, but be prepared to embrace the wilderness in all its forms.
Ultra running is not always Instagram-perfect. It's messy, it's challenging, and it's often downright uncomfortable. But it's also incredibly rewarding. It's a chance to push your limits, to discover your inner strength, and to connect with nature in a profound way. And the stories you collect along the way, the tales of vomiting, death marches, sleepwalking, and dirt-covered glory, are the stories that you'll cherish long after the finish line.
