Summer training is just around the corner, and the energy is building. For most athletes, this means open trails, longer days, and a sharper focus on big goals. But how do you make the most of it? What should you be focusing on, and what key reminders will keep you on track?

• 1. Understand the real time cost. As your training volume increases, it will take more out of your daily life than just the workout itself. A 3 hour long run might end up taking 6 hours of real time once you factor in planning, prep, driving, recovery, and extra eating. Knowing this helps you manage the overall stress better.

• * Bonus tip: Talk this through with your spouse and family ahead of time - it’ll go a long way.

2. Specificity still rules. In short, train on the terrain and in the conditions that you know your target race will have. This one is quite simple and very enjoyable. For most, this will mean more trail time, mountain adventures, and fueling practice. In particular, maximize specificity on your long runs. This is WHY you do what you do, so lean into it!

• 3. But don’t overdo it. As we are now seeing in the sport of ultrarunning, extreme long runs aren’t necessarily the answer. You have to acknowledge the fact that ‘runner’ is part of the word ultrarunner. Keep in touch with speeds and short intervals. These types of sessions will help maintain your running economy, AND they are quite time efficient during a busy work week.

4. Dial in the fueling plan. With the increased training volume and specificity comes the opportunity to practice your race day fueling strategy. Athletes should aim for 250 - 300 calories per hour, 500 - 1000ml of water per hour, and 500 - 1000mg of sodium per liter of water. Training is also the time for you to be trying new products and strategies. Interested in Neversecond gels? Curious what David Roche fuels with? Considering becoming a fruitarian? Now’s the time to be tinkering.

5. What about gear? This is the time to be ordering several more pairs of the shoes that you will race in. Have them on hand and be ready for race day with a fresh pair. Headlamps are another big consideration. I suggest athletes find a headlamp with an average power of at least 500 lumens; then buy two. Train with both, and have them ready for race day. Don’t skimp on gear, but keep things as simple as possible.

These next few months will fly by, so spend some time now mapping out your summer of training with these considerations in mind. Here’s to a focused and incredible summer of training and racing! #BeBoundless

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Coach Duncan Callahan brings over 20 years of ultrarunning and endurance coaching experience to the Boundless Coaching Team. Callahan boasts two victories at the Leadville 100 and aims to help athletes pursue their biggest goals with an eye toward longevity and a focus on overall physical and mental health. Check out Coach Duncan's bio here and fill out a Training Application today to start working with our team!