Ultra-distance and a balanced lifestyle: advice from Camille Pic
Ultra-distance running is not just about sporting performance. It's also aboutbalancing daily life, work, training and family life. In this article, Camille Pic shares her tips for finding the right rhythm and preparing serenely for anultra-cycling goal.
1. Define your goals and your "why
Before you even start preparing, it's essential towrite down in black and white the goal you're aiming for and, above all, why you want to achieve it.
đ This exercise helps to set up a real mental action plan, as the brain better understands the direction to take.
There can be many reasons for this:
Fulfillment and personal challenge (achievement, Maslow's Pyramid).
Social validation: show that you can do it.
Inspire your children or loved ones.
Escape routine and experience an extraordinary adventure.
đ Exercise n°1: Clearly identify why you want to embark on this challenge and set a concrete objective (finisher, time trial, podium...).
2. Surround yourself with family and friends
Ultra-distance racing is a collective adventure. The support of family and friends is essential, as they will be your emotional foundation during the months of preparation.
Explain to them why you're committing to this event, and involve them from the outset. It has to be a shared decision, as can be seen at events such as the Race Across France, where many spouses accompany the cyclists.
3. Organization and time management
A good balance requires meticulous organization:
Use a preparation calendar.
Use a specialized coach to adapt your training to your schedule.
Allow time for recovery to avoid overload.
đ Ultra-distance is a school of rigor, and that starts with managing your schedule.
4. Managing pre-race stress
In the run-up to a major event, stress can become a real drag. It's crucial to anticipate this aspect right from the start of your preparation.
The most effective methods include :
Meditation to help you channel your emotions.
Journaling (daily writing) to clarify your thoughts.
đĄ The important thing is to integrate these practices early to avoid anxiety attacks the day before departure.
Here again, the support of those around you is essential: it helps you put things into perspective in the event of a failed session or professional pressure.
5. Recovery: listen to your body and sleep well
In ultra-distance running, recovery is just as important as training.
Allow 1 to 2 days off per week.
Use adaptogenic plants such as ginseng or rhodiola to support vitality.
Prioritize sleep, the key to performance.
Why is sleep so crucial?
It promotes memory andlearning.
It improves decision-making.
It regulates emotions and supports the immune system.
It optimizes metabolism.
đ S leep well = perform well.
To find out more, read our next article "How to manage ultra-distance fatigue" and the reference book Why do we sleep? by Prof. Matthew Walker.
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Conclusion: finding your ultra-balance
Ultra-distance success doesn't mean sacrificing your personal life or your health. Thanks to naturopathy, good organization and emotional management, it's possible to find the right balance: the one that allows you to progress without burning out, to protect your loved ones and to flourish in both your sporting and personal life.
