The Ultimate Ultramarathon Checklist
The Ultimate Ultramarathon Checklist
By: Maddelynn Horn
Clothing
Research the weather thoroughly before your race. Since Ultramarathons span long periods of time, you’re likely to experience a wide range of weather. Prepare for anything. (The OMR store has plenty of gear to help you through race day).
☐ Shorts
☐ Singlet/tank top
☐ Sleeves
☐ Long sleeve
☐ Pants
☐ Gloves
☐ Hat
☐ Socks (bring extra pairs just in case)
☐ Shoes (bring a back-up pair too)
☐ Windbreaker
☐ Rain jacket
Sun Gear
You’ve probably heard it is important to protect yourself from the sun even on cloudy days. This is particularly true for ultras as you are exposed to the sun for an extended period of time. Getting unexpectedly sunburnt during an ultra isn’t exactly ideal.
☐ Sunscreen
☐ Cooling neck tie or ice bandana (you can make your own)
☐ Sponge with water
Electronics
Planning on running with music? Or just want your phone battery to make it through the race? Be sure to pack your chargers.
Pro-tips: Turn off your watch’s heart rate monitor and put your phone on airplane mode to conserve battery. Download music, audiobooks, podcasts, etc. ahead of time.
☐ Watch
☐ Headphones/earbuds
☐ Headphone/earbud chargers
☐ Phone charger
☐ Portable charger
Nutrition
Nutrition is a key part to a successful race day. Need some help with your nutrition plan? Consider OMR’s nutrition services.
☐ Written nutrition plan (to help keep track of your intake)
☐ Liquid nutrition
☐ Gels
☐ Plain water
☐ Hydration pack/vest and extra bottles
☐ Snacks (salty, savory, and sweet)
☐ Caffeine
☐ Electrolyte/salt tabs
Soreness/Injuries
This category can’t hurt to over-prepare for. You never know how your body will react during the race.
☐ Rollers
☐ Kinesiology tape
☐ Acetaminophen/Ibuprofen
☐ Bandages
☐ Topical pain relief (e.g. Icy Hot)
☐ Anti-nausea meds
☐ Moleskin
☐ Massagers
Logistics for your crew
Having all important information available for your crew will help race day go smoothly. Read more about how to prepare your crew here.
☐ Itinerary
☐ GPS coordinates for aid stations
☐ Nutrition plan
☐ Pace sheets
Miscellaneous
☐ Headlamp
☐ Bug spray
☐ Hiking poles
☐ Wipes
☐ Gaiters
☐ Contacts/Eye Drops
Post-Race
After your race, it’s nice to have some comfort items ready to go.
☐ Comfy clothes
☐ Recovery shoes
☐ Compression socks, clothes
☐ Favorite post-run food and drink
☐ Protein shake/chocolate milk
☐ Epsom salt bath soak
Maddelynn Horn
BA Psychology (‘20), MA Digital Marketing and Data Analysis (‘22)
