John Medinger, publisher of Ultrarunning magazine and highly experienced ultrarunner himself, offers some splendid suggestions for those starting out in the sport in "A Primer for the Beginning Ultra Runner" (March 2011 issue). In brief, as Medinger's subtitle says, "Keep It Simple":

• get decent running shoes (not necessarily trail shoes) from a store where the staff is knowledgeable about the sport
• wear Coolmax or the equivalent wicking fiber garments
• use water-repellent lubricants to avoid chafing; tape over potential friction spots if necessary
• eat 200-300 calories/hour in whatever form your body tolerates; peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are good for some, as are gels, high-energy-content drinks, etc.
• carry water in a handheld bottle, or use a belt-pack and pouch/holster; for longer distances between water sources, bladder-type hydration backpacks are good
• drink electrolyte replacement fluids or water plus salts, such as Succeed! e-caps

My only point of skepticism: the suggestion that a particular product that claims to be "a naturally-occurring amino acid complex" actually "enhances your body's ability to metabolize fat" and can "cut your caloric needs by about half". There are plenty of anecdotal endorsements, but is this medically verified? I need to see some real, controlled studies (and a biochemical explanation) before I can begin to believe. (cf. Medicine and Statistics)

^z - 2011-03-28