Split runs to prepare for the UTMB®

Including splits in your calendar or training plan for the UTMB® will be absolutely necessary for optimal preparation for the great alpine event!

Where to do your splits?

As part of trail training, split sessions are essential. The idea of this specific session is to multiply the return trips on a short hill (distance that can be covered in about 1 minute) but which has a regular and fairly steady slope. The ideal is to do at least 20 round trips at each session and to plan at least one session per week or even two in the last three months before the event. 

How do you build up your split session?

It is important to do a 20-minute warm-up before starting the actual splits. This warm-up will consist of a moderate pace jog on flat ground. Then start the 20-minute intensity run up and down the hill. The downhill runs should also be done at full speed. This allows you to work your thighs "eccentrically" (i.e. they are both contracted and stretched). Between each out and back run a short loop at a moderate trot for about 1 minute on the flat to get the heart rate down. The session should then end with a slow jog of 10 minutes to relax the muscles and recover.