It's coming up to marathon season and recently it feels like there has been talk about ultra marathons coming from all angles. This guide is going to talk through, what an ultra marathon is, how you could train for one and any handy tips and tricks if you are planning on running your own.

As awkward as this answer might be to the question what is an ultra marathon/how long is an ultramarathon, but an ultra marathon is anything more than the standard marathon distance of 42KM/26.22 miles.

That ranges from running anywhere between 45KM-50KM in one long run or running a multi day event, that goes cross country. The term ultra marathon is used as a blanket term that covers all of these types of events.

If you are planning on running an ultra marathon, whether that's a 50KM or a 24 hour time trial event, we can be mistaken for thinking you are already a decent runner. But the biggest difference with running a marathon and running an ultra is stamina and time.

When you have shorter distances, you may try to up the pace and try to get personal bests, but when it comes to longer distances, patience is key. You don't want to gas yourself out in the first 10-15KM then be on the struggle bus for the rest of the way.

Here are some of our top tips when it comes to planning and training for an ultra -

You might think that you need to amp your training and just do long run after long run, but you don't. Consistency is key when it comes to ultra training, it's all about slowly chipping away at building stamina and endurance. 4 - 6 smaller runs throughout the week are usually recommended to get you into a good place then you can start introducing the longer runs as you build up more distance. Being able to throw in a 4+ hour run every now and then will really help keep you in good stead.

Rest and recovery as also as important as the training itself. Making sure you're getting enough sleep, doing your stretches and supplementary work outs whilst also making sure you're fueling your body right. You're going to be putting your body through a lot and you need the calories and energy to make sure you can do that. You're also going to have to plan for how you're going to fuel yourself on your ultra, whether that's with gels, cereal bars or even gummy sweets. Having some of your favourite snacks to celebrate hitting certain miles along the way is a good way to get some motivation as you're running.

To be able to complete training for a ultra marathon and actually running the distance, you need to have the right mind set. You are going to have to make some sacrifices in order to train and recover the way you need too. That might mean a few earlier start, getting in a run on your dinner hour, running in the cold, wind and rain. But you always need to remember the end game, finishing the challenge you have set yourself.

When it come to the question of what to wear, the most important item in your running wardrobe is your running shoes. Having the right running shoes is key! If you decide to get a new pair of trainers ready for your ultra, make sure you take the time to break them in. You don't want to wear a brand new pair of trainers for the actual event as you could be running directly into blister central.

Clothing wise, it would be wise to check the weather forecast and prepare for any eventuality. A lightweight, waterproof jacket means you're protected from the rain without feeling too weighed down. Look for activewear that is made using sweat wicking and cooling fabrics to help reduce the risk of any rubbing and feelings of uncomfort on the skin. You can shop some of our favourite picks below.