Training Essentials for Ultrarunning- Second Edition

This is an excellent book! I have been running ultras for a number of years and I also purchased the first edition of the book which I have read numerous times. The second edition includes some great new sections and content, including an expanded section on nutrition and a great section on mental preparation. I enjoy the fact that Jason Koop bases all of his recommendations in science and the fact that he is completely free of the influence of sponsors.I recently completed the Tor des Géants and used this book in combination with my professional coach to prepare for the race. The coaching guide to this race included in the book proved invaluable and gave me a huge amount of confidence that I was doing the right preparation for the race. I also used the chapter on creating a personal race strategy to prepare my race goal and plans. This paid off and I achieved my plan. Things don't always go smoothly during such a long race and I also got to deploy his ADAPT system for problem solving on 2 occasions during the race. The one situation included a complete failure of my sports watch, a situation I had not envisaged and one which compromised the potential achievement of my goal. However, using the ADAPT system I was able to plan and take action and still achieve my goal.I keep reading sections of the book because each time it refreshes some aspect of the preparation process for me.Whether you are planning your first ultra or you are preparing for another, I believe this book is worth getting. After purchasing the paper copy I also purchased the Kindle version so that I can re-read sections anywhere without carrying the fairly large paper copy around.

I used coaches for ultra in the past but wasn’t ever really happy with the personalization or even with the plan or understanding. I’d started reading and trying to figure out how to do it all myself but had a hard time finding solid science backed methods for training for ultrarunning. I found the first edition and finally started to understand and tailor my training in an efficient, personalized, simplified, and science backed way. I saw some really good improvements and great results. Even after an unfortunate set of injuries I used Koops methods and practices to get a 100k finish after just 6 weeks of actual training. Not to say this is the method, but knowing what workouts to use when and how your body will adapt and what to train really helped me get on the right track for a very short training block. The second edition answers all the questions I ever asked myself about while reading the first edition. This is more of a bible to training for ultrarunning. Very sensible, and quite literally one of the best books on Ultrarunning training I’ve ever gone through. Must Read!

I have enjoyed Jason Koops Insta stories and podcast and was really looking forward to diving into this book. One of the main reasons is, I have mad respect for him as a human, runner, and coach. No, I don't know him personally, but this is my opinion from afar. His dry humor, research based practice, and to the point demeanor were nicely represented within these pages. He is the reason I began to train for ultras by time, rather than stress about checking off set numbers of miles. This was game changing for me. However, I digress. Let's return to the specific book review. Outstanding. I am very impressed at the time, research, and talent that went into writing such an in depth look at ultra training. This book covers everything, including a female specific section. I have always been someone who sticks to a specific training schedule and rarely steers away from what is already planned. Using the information in this book, I wrote my 50k training plan for the first time. I have a race this weekend and have never felt stronger, more confident, or ready at the end of a training block. I put in a lot of time running - more than I ever have before, but feel great! I have book marked multiple pages - sorry to those who feel this is a disrespect to books, but....I have read and re-read certain sections many many times. I highly recommend this book to any runner, or anyone who loves to grow through PD opportunities to gain more knowledge.

Have read it several times. Very helpful.

Great guide for training for long distance trail running and racing. I especially appreciate the scientific approach. My only wish was that it included several sample training programs; it currently talks about training in general terms but this book alone wouldn’t be enough to completely prepare for an ultra.

The second edition of Training Essentials for Ultrarunning is the most comprehensive, detailed, and evidence-based training manual for ultrarunners and coaches at any level. In it, Koop dissects the science and practice around endurance training and explores both the how and why behind program design and various training interventions. The co-author, Corrine Malcom, addresses topics that differ for or are unique to women, which - as the scientific literature on endurance training and adaptation disproportionately relies upon male subjects - helps to advance the sport forward. The writing is engaging and captures the culture of the sport. I literally cannot think of an ultrarunner who would not benefit from reading this book. (Note, I have also read the first edition, and this is SIGNIFICANTLY more detailed - I would recommend reading it even if you've read the first edition.) Highly recommend!