Nutrition during backyard ultras or last man standing races is one of the most important elements of training and of the race. HOWEVER, it’s one of the things that runners struggle with the most when it comes to ultramarathons.
Why? Because everyone is different, you are out there for a LONG time, AND with backyard ultras/last man standing races, you have limited time to problem solve GI issues, dehydration, and other nutrition problems before needing to continue running.
What you should eat and drink, how much, and when can seem intimidating and overwhelming. That’s why we’re chatting with The Endurance Nutritionist, Kayla Fitzgerald, on today’s episode.
Kayla is a registered dietitian, ultra runner, race director, and nutrition expert who has helped hundreds of runners nail their nutrition strategy for their training and their races.
In this episode we discuss the intersection of nutrition and running, particularly in the context of ultra marathons and backyard races. Kayla shares her unique journey to becoming a dietitian, her experiences in running, and the importance of community in trail running.
The conversation delves into practical fueling strategies for ultra marathons, considerations with protein and carbs, how to not bonk, the mental aspects of running, and the significance of personalized race day nutrition plans. Listeners will gain insights into how to approach nutrition for endurance events, the value of being adaptable in their fueling strategies, and how Kayla can help you with a race day nutrition strategy that is made for YOU.
We also discuss Kayla’s perspective on being the race director of Palmetto Ultras, a race series (and group trail runs) in Charleston, South Carolina. Hallucination Trail Race is her next upcoming race! Run for 6hrs, 12hrs, 24hrs, or 34hrs!
