How to Navigate UK Hills: A Beginner’s Guide to Map and Compass Skills
Charles Gay Charles Gay

How to Navigate UK Hills: A Beginner’s Guide to Map and Compass Skills

Lost in a misty summit or struggling to relate your map to the terrain? In this practical guide, we break down navigation for UK hills—covering compass basics, map interpretation, distance judgment, and when to lean on GPS backup. Learn how to confidently plan your route, stay oriented through low visibility, and navigate featureless ground—all so that you can explore off the beaten path with safety and self-reliance.

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My Journey to 200 Miles: Training & Prep for Wild Horse 200
Charles Gay Charles Gay

My Journey to 200 Miles: Training & Prep for Wild Horse 200

Over a year I trained, tested gear and dialled in my nutrition for one goal—the Wild Horse 200. This post explores how I built from base miles to endurance training, rehearsed my kit breakdowns, and mentally prepared for 200 brutal miles and 30,000 ft of climbing. It’s a full account of everything I learnt before crossing that start line—and what it takes to step into the unknown and chase a 200‑mile dream.

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Goal Setting for Ultra Runners: a Long-Term Success Guide.
Charles Gay Charles Gay

Goal Setting for Ultra Runners: a Long-Term Success Guide.

Discover effective goal-setting strategies tailored for ultra runners. This comprehensive coach’s guide covers how to set SMART goals, boost motivation, and build lasting success in ultra endurance running and ultra marathon training.

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About us
Charles Gay Charles Gay

About us

Get to know Beyond Ultra—the passionate team and community supporting ultra runners with expert coaching, training tips, and motivation for your endurance goals.

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Runners Guide
Charles Gay Charles Gay

Runners Guide

Guide to potential runners to give more insight on the coaching process.

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Waterproofs for Ultra Runners & How they Work
Kit Corner, Equipment Charles Gay Kit Corner, Equipment Charles Gay

Waterproofs for Ultra Runners & How they Work

Not all waterproof clothing is created equal. Understanding how it works can help you choose the right gear for your needs.
Do you want it for a running in every day during the winter (or summer at this rate!). Perhaps you want it for a mountain marathon you have coming up. Perhaps, you want it to fulfil the basic kit requirements of an ultra OR, you want it to be as lightweight as possible.

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Beyond The Trail: The Importance of Warming Up
Charles Gay Charles Gay

Beyond The Trail: The Importance of Warming Up

Welcome to the first blog post in our new collection, ‘Beyond the Trail’. This is a collection of advice and experiences to help improve your performance, and enjoyment, on the trail.

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