In France, this sport was born in 90’s with the Templiers’ race for example, inspired by the mythic Western States race which was one of the first one in United States. Without going into the historical details, this contest was the oldest 100 miles race in the world. More broadly, this discipline match with the current trends: getting back to nature and simplicity.
However, even if trail running in the mountains seems somewhat easy, this one requires a good physical training, according to our objectives in order to enjoy this sport.
In everyday life, when 24 hours days are too short, it can be hard to do everything we would like to. In my case, preparing for a race as Western or UTBM (Mont Blanc path) one needs a rigorous organization in order to ensure effective coordination with work and parental role…
Apart from the training, running is also a kind of “way of life” for me; it is part of my body and soul balance. I never forget that trail running is the most important thing of secondary importance. I do not want this sport to be the main priority in my life.
I run approximately 5 to 8 times a week. I also bike 1 to 2 times a week in order to set cardio training without damaging my joints. In winter, I work on strengthening exercises to prevent injuries. However, I try to rest at least one day by week.
Resting is part of the training. Year after year, in order to practice this sport longer (lol), I value the “hidden training”: sleep, nutrition…I do not follow a crazy or strict diet but I am careful about “the fuel I put in my engine”. It might be the subject of another article. Never forget that a healthy nutrition is based on variety.
I live downtown with my family and I love going to good restaurants with friends. My address book is getting bigger and bigger, I already have more than twenty good places to share 😉
I will run in Chamonix at the end of august and will try to complete the Mont Blanc round trip. A great challenge and journey that I will share with you when I get back.
Enjoy your summer and hikes and, to quote a mythic race event organizer in Colorado State: « You can do more than you think you can ».
Thomas Lorblanchet
More about Thomas: http://www.thomas-lorblanchet.com/