ULTRA – MARATHON – MORE THAN JUST A RACE, IT’S A PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION

In the world of endurance sports, ultra-running – races that go beyond the traditional marathon distance (~42 km) – are increasingly captivating the global athletic community, including here in Vietnam. These events aren’t just physical challenges; they’re intense mental battles between willpower and the body’s limits.

WHAT IS ULTRA – MARATHON? 

Ultra-running includes distances from 50km, 100km, to 100 miles (160km), across diverse terrains such as mountains, forests, deserts, or paved roads. These races often last from several hours to several continuous days, demanding that participants:

• Possess superior physical endurance and long-term stamina.
• Have an iron will, not easily giving up in the face of weather, injury, or mental fatigue.
• Employ a meticulously planned nutrition, hydration, and recovery strategy.

The Best Ultra Marathons In Africa For 2021 by Jasper Johnson

PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANS IN ULTRA-MARATION

Physical

• Stable cardiovascular capacity, strong aerobic base.
• Resilient muscles that can withstand prolonged exertion with minimal damage.
• A digestive system adapted to consuming energy during activity.

Mental

• Knowing how to break down goals: 100km is just 10 x 10km.
• Maintaining positive thinking when navigating tough sections.
• Sustaining willpower even when the body aches and sleep deprivation sets in.

NUTRITION STRATEGY & ENERGY GELS FOR ULTRA – MARATHON 

Why are gels ideal?

• Convenient to carry, easy to digest.
• Provide fast-absorbing carbs → maintain stable energy, prevent exhaustion, and dehydration.
• Some types also contain caffeine, sodium, BCAA → aid alertness, prevent cramps, and support muscle recovery.

Suggested Energy Gel schedule:

• 15–20 minutes before start: Consume 1 gel (can include caffeine).
• Every 45–60 minutes during the run: Take 1 gel to maintain blood sugar.
• Accompany with 150–200ml of water to prevent digestive issues.

SUGGESTED ENERGY GELS FROM NUTRITION DEPOT VIETNAM

Neversecond C30 Sport Drink for enhances performance

• A powdered drink mix formulated with a 2:1 ratio of Maltodextrin to Fructose, featuring a mild, refreshing flavor and neutral pH to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
• Includes 200mg Sodium – helps deliver fluid and retain fluid. This is the right level of sodium for the vast majority of athletes.

Neversecond C30 Energy Gel, scientifically formulated nutrition

• 30g carbs provide fast absorbing energy and boost performance, easy on the stomach
• 200mg of sodium per gel – This allows for more rapid fluid aborption and retention
• Also available in C30+ Energy Gel Caffeine version to boost alertness for the final stages. Ideal for long runs, used alternately every hour.

Nutrend Carbosnack Fast Energy Gel

• A classic, easy-to-use gel. Provides 31g Carbs, enriched with beta-alanine, choline and vitamin B3 –  help efficiently restore your energy levels
• Many diverse flavors, easy to incorporate into long journeys, affordable, suitable for beginners or regular use.

ULTRA-MARATHON RACES 

WORLDWIDE

UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, France) One of the toughest and most prestigious trail races on the planet.	Western States 100 (USA) The first ultra-race in history, known for extreme gradients and weather.	Spartathlon (Greece) 246km from Athens to Sparta, combining willpower and historical legacy.

VIETNAM

Vietnam Mountain Marathon (VMM – Sapa)	Vietnam Jungle Marathon (Pu Luong)	La An Ultra Trail (Lam Dong)

THESE RACES ARE ATTRACTING THOUSANDS OF DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL ATHLETES, FEATURING STUNNING TERRAIN AND WORTHY CHALLENGES.

THE ULTRA JOURNE IS A TEST OF CHARACTER

Long-distance running isn’t just about physical activity—it’s a journey of self-transcendence. With meticulous preparation of your body, mind, and nutrition—you’ll not only conquer the distance but also expand your own limits far beyond what you imagined.

📌 Nutrition Depot Vietnam is your partner on the journey to building a healthy lifestyle—not just through quality products, but also through reliable articles, knowledge, and advice.

🔗 Visit www.nutritiondepot.vn to start your wellness journey today!