The Leadville Trail 100 Run and MTB are both legendary for their high-altitude climbs, relentless elevation gain, and unforgiving terrain. Whether you’re grinding up Powerline on two feet or two wheels, or tackling Hope Pass or Columbine, one thing is certain—your ability to handle long, sustained climbs will make or break your race.
Here are three ways to improve your climbing so you can conquer Leadville with confidence:
1. Build Strength with Targeted Hill Workouts
No matter your discipline, strong climbing legs are a must. Incorporating structured workouts will help you maintain power on the ascents and stay steady over 100+ miles.
For Runners:
➝ Hill Repeats: Find a moderate incline (6-10%) and run hard uphill for 1-3 minutes, then jog back down. Repeat 6-10 times.
➝ Long, Sustained Climbs: Run at a steady aerobic effort for 20-30 minutes to simulate Leadville’s long ascents.
➝ Power Hiking Practice: Hiking efficiently on steep climbs (like Hope Pass) conserves energy and keeps you moving forward.
For Cyclists:
➝ Climbing Intervals: Find a steady climb and alternate between seated and standing efforts for 3-5 minutes, then recover.
➝ Threshold Hill Efforts: Ride at a challenging but sustainable pace for 10-20 minutes.
➝ Cadence Work: Train at both low and high cadences to improve muscular endurance and efficiency on long climbs.
2. Strength Train for Mountain-Ready Legs
Both runners and cyclists need strong legs to power up Leadville’s relentless climbs and avoid fatigue taking over. Strength training builds durability, prevents injury, and increases endurance.
Key Exercises for Both Disciplines:
- Step-ups (weighted or bodyweight)
- Squats (also Bulgarian split squats)
- Deadlifts
- Lunge variations
- Calf raises (to prep for all those vertical miles)
- Core work (planks, Russian twists, and leg raises for stability)
The best exercises should target quads, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and core stability.
3. Master Your Pacing & Mindset
The biggest mistake at Leadville? Burning too many matches too soon. Whether you’re running or riding, pacing is everything.
For Runners:
➝ Climb efficiently—don’t go too hard early, or you’ll regret it later!
➝ Power-hike the steep climbs—sometimes, it’s faster (and smarter) than running, especially when it comes to 100 miles at elevation.
➝ Stay mentally strong—embrace the pain, dig deep, and keep moving forward.
For Cyclists:
➝ Pace yourself on long climbs—Columbine is not the place to sprint!
➝ Use gearing wisely—spinning at a high cadence (85+ RPM) prevents burnout.
➝ Save energy for later—don't forget, you'll still need POWER for Powerline inbound.
Climbing at Leadville is about strength, pacing, and mental grit. By incorporating these strategies into your training, you’ll feel stronger and more prepared for race day.
Ready to take your training to the next level? Join us at Arizona Run Camp or work with a Boundless Coach to get Leadville-ready!