Fitness
Above the clouds: a beginner’s guide to skyrunning
Take to the mountains with our easy guide to sprinting high above the clouds on high altitude trails.
Skyrunning is a challenge unlike any other. It’s like fell-running, but up high – in fact, technically over 2,000m where, according to the International Skyrunning Association, “the minimum average incline is over 6% and it must include sections of 30%”. In real terms, that translates to one tough race. But if you’re thinking about a new challenge, skyrunning is one that is rewarded by the most spectacular scenery and landscapes few people ever encounter. Your legs might not thank you, though.
Here’s where to start if you’re thinking of giving it a go...
1. The right kit is everything
Most importantly, you’ll need a specialist pair of trail shoes. Eirik Haugsnes, a skyrunner based in Norway, says you will need a well-fitting pair with really sticky grip. “They also need an outsole that can handle everything from dry, rocky terrain, to wet stones, mud, technical forest ground and also, on some occasions, groomed mountain trails,” he adds. He recommends inov-8’s rubber-studded X-Talon shoes. “In addition you will need a light backpack that can carry water, food, a windproof jacket with taped seams and trousers, a rescue blanket, a phone, a hat and gloves. Many skyrunners also like to use poles which help save some energy on long uphill sections."
2. Navigate like a pro
Like fell-running, skyrunning courses are unmarked, meaning you must reach the numerous checkpoints with only the aid of a map and a compass. Although that may seem daunting, elite ultrarunner and Hoka One One ambassador Tom Evans says it’s all about confidence. “Once you’ve learnt the basics, it’s simply a case of trusting your map and compass.” There are plenty of navigation courses you can find online, but Evans recommends paying a visit to your local orienteering club. “Those guys are the experts at relating the ground to the map, and will be sure to have you flying in no time.”
3. Find hills if you’re based in a big city
It’s often tricky to find an ascent higher than 100m in urban areas, which can make it difficult to train for races with 2,000-plus metres of ascent. But Evans believes you shouldn’t be too concerned. “If the motivation is there it’s easy to do. I recommend spending a few weekends away in a similar environment to that of the race. If that’s not an option, then you just have to get inventive with your training programme and hunt for the hills. Often, with a little research, they’re not too tough to find.”
4. There are races for beginners to enter
The Scafell Sky Race in the Lake District, according to Evans, is challenging but not as extreme as many others. “There are sections that require skill and nerve, but it’s nothing that can’t be conquered with some smart training,” he says. “It’s a great starting point with some amazing views, technical trails and plenty of runnable sections.” Haugsnes recommends a race closer to where he lives – although it’s perhaps more for more experienced runners: “My favourite place to do skyrunning is home in north Norway on an island called Senja. We have a new and challenging skyrunning race on the island for 2018 – it’s called Sans Senja Skyrace. It's 27km and is a tough, technical course with 2,700m of both climbing and descending. The views are insane. Doing this race will give every runner a fantastic mountain-running adventure."
5. The best places to train
The Lake District offers rich terrain for skyrunning
© Inov-8
In the UK we’re spoilt for choice, with plenty of trails at altitude in Wales, the Peak District, the Lake District and Scotland. Evans recommends Glen Coe in particular. “It’s quite technical, so having a good head for heights will help. The weather can also be quite temperamental, so be sure to pack accordingly even if you’re only going out for a short run.” Haugsnes, meanwhile, is a big fan of the Lake District [pictured above]. “It’s simply a great place to do mountain running, and the area has a rich history of fell-running, which in many ways is quite similar to skyrunning. The Lake Sky Ultra is one of my favourite races.”
6. For more advice and inspiration
Head to the UK Skyrunning website, Skyrunninguk.com, which links to races and information on what to expect. Evans and Haugsnes both point to one man in particular for inspiration: Ian Corless. “His book Running Beyond provides fascinating details on some of the most amazing races,” says Evans. “You’ll want to sign up to them all once you’ve read it.” Failing that, simply YouTube ‘Kilian Jornet running’ and watch inspirational footage of the skyrunning legend in action – complete with descents so terrifyingly fast your palms will go clammy.
