Run247 went along to a training day with Merrell ambassador Jake Thompsett (www.jtexpeditions.co.uk) to get some training and racing tips for the upcoming Man vs Mountain race
The Man vs Mountain is 20 mile run up and around Snowdonia with some obstacles thrown in for a bit of fun. Having fitted us out with a pair of Merrell Bare Access Trail shoes (HERE) Jake then took us out on what was described as a 5k trail run with some strength exercises thrown in.
The off road running course was based around Hamstead Heath, which has some great running routes with lots of hills, steps and woodlands to negotiate. After a quick warm up Jake had us running up and down steep muddy banks to not only get used to climbing and descending techniques but also to test out the grip and fit of the shoes.
When not running we were treated (if you can call it being treated…) to some strength exercises, from planks to press ups and star jumps to hand crawls. Strength training is not something I normally do and that was pretty clear to everyone on the run, but it can be a real benefit to your running and is vital when taking on an event like Man vs Mountain.
After the run we took five minutes to chat to Jake and get some tips and advice for taking on such a race as Man vs Mountain:
Find out more about Rat Race Man vs Mountain: www.ratracemanvsmountain.com
