Training for an Ultramarathon in the Winter? -

Do you want to do a spring ultramarathon, but can’t seem to find the motivation to train like you need to through the winter?

I get it. The days are short, the trails are sloppy or frozen, and sometimes just getting out the door feels like a massive win. But here’s the truth: That winter training block is exactly what builds the mental toughness you’ll need when your spring ultra gets ugly with mud, fatigue, or those inevitable low moments.

I hope the advice in this video is helping you right now:

Just do it. Don’t overthink it.

Every workout is a building block, and you only need to do one at a time. Lay each brick one at a time. Some days the run will feel strong. Other days it’ll be a slow grind through snow and ice. Both count. Both make you stronger.

Gear up, stay safe, and remove the excuses

Make sure you have the right winter running gear: A good jacket, hat, gloves, buff, and grippy shoes (trail shoes, spikes, or Yaktrax). Do your research so you stay safe out there—especially on those long runs when the sun drops early on the East Coast. Wake up earlier, run on your lunch break, or hit the treadmill or indoor track when you need to. Headlamp, reflective gear, and even pepper spray can give you peace of mind. Once the gear is sorted, the only thing left is making the training happen. No excuses.

Your pacing might look different in the winter. That’s okay. Battling the elements—snow, ice, slop—builds character, resiliency, and mental toughness. Your spring ultra might throw mud at you, and that’s not much different than what you’re already handling. Practice not beating yourself up over a slower pace or having to carefully pick your way down a steep hill. It’s not worth falling and getting injured. You’re training smart for race day.

Remember why you’re doing this

Hold onto your “A” race goal. Visualize how you want to feel when you cross that finish line—in great detail. Picture the emotions, the relief, the pride. Keep that image close during the dark, cold weeks. It will pull you through when motivation is low.

If you think you’re struggling with seasonal affective disorder (winter blues) or depression, please reach out to a mental health professional if you need to. But also—get moving. Whether it’s running or strength training, those things will benefit your mental health. Exercise is powerful medicine for the mind.

If you want to know more about the mental health benefits of running and exercise, check out my podcast episode on that topic:

Back of the Pack Ultra Guy Podcast: Ultrarunning and trauma

Winter training isn’t just about miles—it’s about mindset

This is where the real work happens. You’re not just training your legs; you’re training your mind to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. That mental flexibility becomes your superpower on race day when conditions turn tough. You learn to control what you can control, stay honest to your daily goals, and keep moving forward even when it’s hard.

Every cold, dark run you finish is proof that you’re building the resilience you’ll need when the ultramarathon tries to break you. You’re laying those bricks, one workout at a time.

If you’re tired of battling negative self-talk, DNFs, or that voice that says you’re not ready, I’m here to help. As a mindset and mental wellness coach for ultrarunners, I work with athletes just like you to strengthen their mental game so they can finish stronger.

Head over to my website and book a free 15-minute consultation if you want to see if we’d make a great team.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Shannon

You’ve got this. One brick at a time. Keep showing up, keep building, and when spring arrives you’ll be ready—not just physically, but mentally unbreakable. Now go lay today’s brick.

— Shannon Mick
Finish Stronger Mindset and Mental Wellness Coaching
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