Training & Nutrition

This is how runners actually get ready, whether they are running 5K or 100 miles. Trailhead’s Training & Nutrition section covers the work that happens between race weekends — advice and training insights from coaches, fueling strategies, hydration science, recovery protocols, and Q&A guides on tapering, heat acclimation, and stepping up from 50K to 100 miles.

Built with coaches, dietitians, and elite runners who do this for a living. Brought to you by UltraSignup, the world’s leading trail running registration platform.

Ready to put a plan to work?

Pick a goal race — 5K, trail half marathon, 50K, 100K, or 100-mile ultra — at ultrasignup.com.

How to Train for Trail Races Without Access to Trails

How to Train for Trail Races Without Access to Trails

If you don't have regular access to trails, you can still train for trail races with these adjustments.
Ashley Arnold
April 17, 2026
Women Are Getting Faster in Ultras. Here’s Why.

Women Are Getting Faster in Ultras. Here’s Why.

Women are getting faster in ultras. Here are some of the reasons behind the faster finishes in recent years.
Zoë Rom
April 6, 2026
Smart Tips to Recover From a Mid-Race Bonk

Smart Tips to Recover From a Mid-Race Bonk

Here are some smart tips on how to overcome bonking and even prevent it from happening.
Dan England
April 6, 2026
Running Through Motherhood: 10 Tips for Managing Trail Running as a Mom

Running Through Motherhood: 10 Tips for Managing Trail Running as a Mom

Here are 10 helpful—and very practical—tips about how to continue trail running through motherhood.
Ashley Arnold
March 30, 2026
How to Transition from Running Marathons to Trail Races

How to Transition from Running Marathons to Trail Races

If you’re a road runner who’s curious about making the transition to trail running, let this guide be a shortcut to the learning curve.
Ashley Arnold
March 9, 2026
8 Mistakes New Trail Runners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

8 Mistakes New Trail Runners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Here are 8 common mistakes I learned the hard way when I started trail running, and how you can avoid them.
Ashley Arnold
March 2, 2026
What to Expect For Your First Ultra

What to Expect For Your First Ultra

Signing up for your first ultramarathon is a big step. Here are the finer points that no one tells you about in advance.
Zoë Rom
January 27, 2026
Why Ultrarunners Need to Embrace ALL Training Zones

Why Ultrarunners Need to Embrace ALL Training Zones

Is Zone 2 the endurance hero it’s cooked up to be? Yes, and no.
UltraSignup
November 2, 2025
How do I train for a stage race?

How do I train for a stage race?

Stage races aren’t just about endurance. They’re about waking up sore, smiling, and doing it all again. Here’s how to train so you don’t just survive the stages but savor them.
UltraSignup
October 6, 2025
Your Quick Guide to Tapering: Frequently Asked Questions

Your Quick Guide to Tapering: Frequently Asked Questions

Learn the science behind perfecting your taper with help from CTS coach, Jim Rutberg.
UltraSignup
August 15, 2025

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