Q: When does the UltraLadies training season begin and end?
A: The UltraLadies season runs from spring to late summer each year. The group training runs usually start a few weeks after the L.A. Marathon and come to an end a couple of weeks before the Bulldog 50k Ultra Run in late August.
Q: Do I pay to run with the UltraLadies?
A: No fees are collected to run with the group. On occasion, we sometimes "pass the hat" to help defer costs for post-run drinks, ice, or for goodies/water that are stashed along the trail.
Q: Can men run with the UltraLadies?
A: Indeed, men run with the UltraLadies. They are appropriately called "UltraLadies' Men".
Q: How do I join the UltraLadies?
A: Go to "Join" on the website menu. Once your membership is approved, you will begin receiving email updates about the group runs.
Q: Where are the training runs held?
A: UltraLadies training runs are usually held in the Santa Monica Mountains, north of Los Angeles, and in the Angeles National Forest, near Mt. Wilson.
Q: How do I find the meeting time and place?
A: You will receive email updates about the meeting times and place. You can also check the "Latest Info" page on the website for any last minute updates or possible run changes due to weather, fire, etc.
Q: Am I "in shape" for the UltraLadies?
A: Anyone in marathon/ultrarunning condition can train with the UltraLadies, anytime during the year. In the spring of each year we encourage newbies join in as the training mileage starts low and follows a build-up to the Bulldog in September. If you have a one-year base of steady training (without lapses due to injury) and completed the L.A. Marathon (or similar) injury-free, you are ready for Bulldog training.
Q: Am I "in shape" for the UltraLadies?
A: Anyone in marathon/ultrarunning condition can train with the UltraLadies, anytime during the year. In the spring of each year we encourage newbies join in as the training mileage starts low and follows a build-up to the Bulldog in September. If you have a one-year base of steady training (without lapses due to injury) and completed the L.A. Marathon (or similar) injury-free, you are ready for Bulldog training.
Q: Do I have to be fast?
A: You do not necessarily need to be a fast runner to train with the group. We will usually run "out-and-back" so everyone get a chance to spend the right amount of time on their feet, and improve as they continue to train.
Q: What are the training runs like?
A: The runs are hard and hilly. But the nice part is... you get to walk the uphills! The rule of ultrarunning is...walk the uphills, jog the flats, run the downhills. You will learn this... and more! The runs are social (leave your competitive ego at home). Nobody cares who gets back to the cars first. Don't be intimidated... the average training pace is on long runs 4-5 mph. Be prepared to deal with altitude, uneven footing, and possible encounters with wildlife. Before your first run with us, please read the Trail Running Guidelines. Reading through this information will help ensure your comfort and safety on the trail.
Q: Are the runs held rain or shine?
A: Yes, we will run, rain or shine, but do check the "latest info" page on the website for any last minute updates or changes.
Q: What gear do I bring to the runs?
A: The following is recommended:
You can e-mail additional questions/comments to Nancy Shura at ultraladies@yahoo.com. I will personally respond to all inquiries. If you need any extra help, have personal questions, etc., don't hesitate to ask!