- Sold out
Extreme running 101 Lydia Oldham uncovers all with Reebok
If you thought marathons were hard, wait until you learn about ultra-long-distance running. We have seasoned pro Lydia Oldham show us the ropes and bare all, from community and personal training to technical gear and some funny highlights.
By Stories Editorial
27 October 2024 · 5 min read
For ultrarunner Lydia Oldham, running became a transformative force during the pandemic. What started as a simple escape from the monotony of dreary, old lockdown turned into a passion for long-distance running.
After completing her first marathon in Copenhagen, her love for pushing physical boundaries only grew, leading her to embrace the world of ultra-distance races. Oldham reflects on the emotional highs and lows of these challenges, emphasising how she learned to listen to her body through trial and error. Her self-directed training, rooted in a passion for personal growth, allowed her to overcome injuries and develop a deep understanding of fueling and recovery — two elements of the sport that should not go amiss.
Beyond the physical demands, Oldham highlights the sense of community that running fosters, especially in the ultramarathon world. She shares how the camaraderie among runners is unique, with competitors supporting each other through the toughest parts of the race. To get a feel of the runner’s everyday routine, we ran alongside Oldham to get her insights on the importance of self-training and the beauty of building community on a 100 km-long run.
Go the distance
Have you always been a runner? If not, what got you into it?
I actually only started running near the end of lockdown, because I needed to get out of the house. When I did my first half marathon, and I remember thinking, “I don’t know if I’ll ever do a marathon; that seems like a crazy distance.” But then I did a marathon and realised I didn’t really like speed or trying to beat my time, so I thought, “Let’s see how far I can go.” It just escalated from there, really.
What did doing that first marathon feel like? What were some of the emotions that you were going through?
It was so much fun because you have no expectations. I had no time in mind; I was like, “I just want to finish it.” So I went to Copenhagen, had some friends there with me, crossed the finish line, and cried a lot. I thought, “This is great!” After that one, I always seemed to think, “I don’t think I’ll ever do that again,” but then a couple of days later, I’m like, “What’s the next thing that I can do?”
So you decided that marathons weren’t really enough and wanted to do more of the distance side of running. Can you tell me how you prepare for something like that?
I’ve never had a coach or anything like that. I enjoy doing my own research and trying to create my own plan. Whether I’ve done it all correctly, I don’t know, but it seems to really work for me. It’s more about understanding myself. Last year I learned a lot because I had loads of injuries. I didn’t really understand how to fuel for marathons; I was probably overtraining and just not quite getting it. Then came the opportunity to do The Speed Project with Reebok. I knew my training would have to increase significantly in volume, and I was worried about how not to get injured. I didn’t get injured once, even though I was doing up to 170 kilometres a week.
To help with that 100k
What draws you towards extreme distances?
I actually don’t know. I really enjoy seeing how far I can go. When you do longer distances, it’s more about the adventure and the people you meet. I found that in trail running — when I’m doing 100K races, you end up talking to other competitors. That distance seems to bring people closer together.
Can you describe the different stages of an ultra marathon? Your body must feel different at various points throughout the run.
In a 100K distance, it’s like my mind tricks me. The start is always great; I feel really nervous at first, but once I get into the flow, I have a good 50K of really enjoying it. I always hit a low point. I never think I’m going to quit, but I convince myself of weird things — like, “What if I injure my leg? Maybe I should stop.” I reel through all these thoughts, thinking maybe at the next aid station I can find an excuse to quit. I realise that those hard moments always pass. The first ultra I did, I didn’t finish because I didn’t understand that you have to let those moments go.
Running has really taken off recently, with many young people getting involved. What do you think it is that draws people into running these long distances?
One reason is the community. Many younger people aren’t going out and partying — they want a healthy lifestyle, and running can be part of that. The pandemic played a big role in pushing people to explore fitness outside. It’s also this real desire for adventure, and running gives you that. You get to go to places that you wouldn’t go otherwise.
What are your thoughts on running styles or trends? Any fads that you think we should watch out for?
There’s definitely an increase in trail running. People are realising that it’s not just about being on the road; it’s about exploring beautiful trails and mountains. With that, you see a lot of new brands focusing on that side, and the gear for trail running has really improved.
What do you feel sets Reebok apart from other running brands?
I think at the moment running is so hyped up and everyone’s trying to get into the running space, so it’s just quite nice that Reebok is making a strong comeback into that space. Though they come from a sporty past they don’t have a really strict “this is what we are in the running space” vibe, I feel like they’re very open to doing these crazy challenges or lots of different projects. They’re not afraid to push the boundaries.
What about Reebok running gear, for example?
I wore their FloatZig X1 carbon plate shoe in Berlin for the marathon, which was super exciting, but also the FloatZig 1 in America for TSP, I mean, they’re really good. They’re just your everyday shoe, I was able to wear them on concrete. I was able to wear them over loads of miles. They’re just really well cushioned.
Slow and steady wins the race
Explore the brand
Blending culture, fashion, and innovation, Reebok has shaped athletic and streetwear culture since 1958.STORIES, SERVED FRESH
Product drops, insider takes and stories through style — straight to your inbox.