OVERSEAS ESSENTIALS

If the lure of foreign climes and overseas trails are calling, take note of these essential tips from trail runners who've gone before

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Running tourism is on the up, with searches for 'marathons in Europe' jumping by 73% year-on-year and online search volumes for 'running holidays' up 55%, as more travellers blend fitness with adventure on their trips.

But with this rise in 'sportcations' comes a degree of risk tied to taking on new challenges without proper preparation. Men's Fitness kept pace with some of the world's most experienced trail and ultramarathon runners to discover their tips for staying on track when running up and down mountains.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

“When I ran Western States, I was initially quite intimidated by the American trail culture at first,” says Ed Scott, ultrarunner and race organiser with Threshold Sports. “To put it frankly, our cousins across the pond are a lot more enthusiastic and gung-ho in their attitude. At UK races I was used to quiet golf claps and gentle encouragement at aid stations. In America I got whoops, cheers and high-fives. At one point, 9000 feet above sea level, a guy even a full box of Krispy Kremes in my face and shouted, 'Doughnuts?' My advice is to embrace the trail running culture wherever you are going as part of the experience.”

TAKE A COLD PLUNGE

“When I ran the BTU ice ultra, I knew it was in the snow, but real snow (not British snow) in freezing conditions that go down to -40," explains BTU ultrarunner Alison Little. "So, trying to train in England for that environment was a challenge. I had to wear snow shoes, so I would go and practice on the beach as this was the closest, I could adapt my training to feel like snow. I got so many weird looks! Also, take lots of cold showers - somehow it just helps you become adapted to the cold. I also started cold water swimming all these little things really helped."

BEWARE THE DOG