stronger together courses for 2027

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What is it all about?

An ultra can feel scary. It can feel out of reach for ‘normal’ runners. It can feel like you need loads of time, money, kit. Amazing people pop up on your Instagram doing these extraordinary things, and you think “I could never do that”. But you can.

With the right support and advice, we at Into Ultra believe that anyone can run and walk an ultra. Which is why we are partnering with some fantastic coaches across the UK to deliver six teams of 10-15 budding ultrarunners to take on an ultra in 2027. Guided by a training plan, meet-ups, advice on everything from kit to nutrition to motivation, and ongoing support and encouragement from an expert coach and each other, you can achieve something you thought never possible. 

We ran similar courses for the last two years and not only did the participants achieve their ultra goals, but they built a community with their fellow runners:

“Having Polly constantly in my corner reassuring and answering my multitude of questions has been a godsend. And the group was fantastic as we all spurred each other on and chatted through any worries or niggles we were having”

“Stronger Together has been a joy to be part of, I’ve made so many lovely friends which has always been a really big positive for running in general for me”

"I've gained so much in terms of actual knowledge and experience, things you can’t buy or learn by yourself from reading. I’m really grateful I was given this opportunity and know the connections I’ve made and confidence I’ve grown within myself will continue to grow now the programme has completed and we’ve all progressed past our first ultra"

They have inspired the name of this programme because we are Stronger Together. 

What do I get?

There are six different courses in different parts of England and Wales each working towards a particular race or event in mid-2027 (we don’t really like the word ‘race’ since most of us are not racing anyone else or anything – its just a fun and challenging adventure).  The events are suitable for ultra-newbies - they are all about 50km, provide great support, have no or super-generous cut-offs, and have shorter distance options.  

To get you to and over the start line in great shape, well-prepared and confident, you will receive a package of support over about 6 months building up to the event.  Our Stronger Together courses all include:

• a race-specific training plan tailored to those building up to an ultra
• in person and Zoom meet-ups that could include guided runs, course recces, advice on training, nutrition, kit, pacing, navigation, building resilience and confidence, strength work, social natter and cake
• a WhatsApp community for teambuilding, supporting each other, asking questions, offering motivation, celebrating milestones and to arrange informal meet-ups
• access to Into Ultra’s webinar series – previous ones have included ‘being a tail-end warrior’, advice from experts like Renee MacGregor and Claire Maxted and tall tales from Damian Hall
• Each course is slightly different, reflecting the particular event and the course content and length.  You can see a brief summary of each course 

Each course is slightly different reflecting the particular event and the course content and length.  You can see a brief summary of each course below.

What does it cost?

The courses cost around £200 per person equivalent to just £10 a week (excluding race entry).  A small investment in you.

Into ultra is able to cover this course cost for those who face difficulties affording this.  We will also cover the cost of the race entry (though in many cases these are provided free by the races) and, if needed, help you with kit, shoes and clothing.  See below for how to apply for this support.  

Is this for me?

The training plans, advice and event are suitable for ultra-newbies but they will also be great for anyone who would like to join a fun community – you can never have too much camaraderie!  

We do ask that participants:

• want to complete an ultra and join a community to get there
• have a suitable fitness level - this might be consistently running 2-3 times a week, being able to run/jog for 1 or 2 hours (see the table above), be a good 5k or hill runner or a long distance hiker or cyclist.
• able to commit to training 3-4 times a week and free of injuries or other events that might prevent this
• ideally can attend some of the in-person meet-ups (which will be on / near the event course) and can attend the event itself

The courses start in early 2027 - we are registering people on them now so that they have a couple of months to get ready (if needed).

If you are unsure of whether a Stronger Together course is right for you, complete the form and ask for a coach to contact you to discuss it.

How do I join?

The course places will be allocated on a first-come-first served basis so don't delay! 

To apply to join one of the courses you just need to complete this form.  It asks for your details, which course you are interested in and about your fitness and ability to train.  If you are looking for into ultra funding for the course and race then there are a few further questions.  

If there is no suitable course for you because, for instance, they are all too far away then please complete the form saying no suitable course and we may be able to start other courses. 

Any questions email us at info@intoultra.org.uk.