From roads to your first trail: what to discuss with a coach

Describe your current training

Bring a typical week: running days, long-outing duration, rest, strength and recent races. Be realistic about the time you can commit.

A personal best provides context, not a ready-made plan. Discuss limitations separately; coaching does not replace medical assessment.

Understand your first race route

Climbing, descending, rocks, roots, aid-station gaps and cutoffs change the task. Read the organiser’s current regulations before entering.

Do not apply your road pace across a trail course. Walking uphill can be part of the plan. Prioritise control when learning to descend.

• Longest section without assistance
• Technical sections
• Exit and return arrangements
• Mandatory equipment

Choose one skill to practise

Discuss a priority such as climbing, controlled descending, fuelling or carrying kit instead of increasing every demand at once.

Camp provides feedback and time to discuss questions. It does not promise instant ultra readiness. Your next plan depends on experience and time before the race.

Make room for recovery

Discuss the week before camp and your return to normal training afterwards. A training trip is part of the wider process.

MONT Weekend centres on easy running, technique and debriefs. Longer formats add recovery days and selected quality sessions where appropriate.

Discuss your plan

Share your experience, preferred dates and expectations. We will use them to discuss the route and preparation.