If you’re a runner looking for a challenge, high-elevation races are a great way to push your limits and test your endurance. Fortunately, Colorado offers some of the best high-altitude races in the country, providing breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain that can help take your running to the next level. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of high-elevation running, provide tips for preparing for a race, and highlight some of the top high-altitude races in Colorado to add to your bucket list.

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The Benefits of High-Altitude Running

Running at high elevations can offer a range of benefits for athletes looking to improve their performance. Here are just a few examples:

Improved Cardiovascular Fitness

When you run at high altitudes, there’s less oxygen in the air, which forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs to function. Over time, this can lead to an increase in the number of red blood cells in your body, which improves your cardiovascular fitness and endurance.

Additionally, running at high altitudes can also help to lower your resting heart rate. This is because your heart becomes more efficient at pumping blood and oxygen throughout your body. As a result, your heart doesn’t have to work as hard when you’re at rest, which can help to improve your overall heart health.

Increased Lung Capacity

Running at high altitudes can also improve your lung capacity because your body has to adapt to the lower levels of oxygen. Over time, your respiratory system becomes more efficient at taking in oxygen, which can help you run more efficiently and with less fatigue.

Furthermore, the increased lung capacity that comes with high-altitude running can also benefit your overall respiratory health. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Enhanced Mental Toughness

Running at high altitudes is mentally challenging, as the terrain can be steep, and the air may be thin. When you complete a high-altitude race, you’ll not only have physical proof of your accomplishment, but you’ll also have the mental toughness that comes with overcoming the mental and physical challenges of running at high altitude.

In addition to mental toughness, high-altitude running can also help to improve your overall mental health. Exercise, in general, has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Running at high altitudes, with its added physical and mental challenges, can provide an even greater boost to your mental well-being.

Preparing for a High-Elevation Race

Before you tackle a high-elevation race, it’s important to prepare properly. Here are some tips to help:

Gradual Acclimatization

Before the race, spend time in the area to get your body used to the altitude. Start with short workouts and gradually increase your time and efforts. This can help reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Proper Hydration and Nutrition

Make sure you’re well-hydrated and properly nourished for the race. At high elevations, it’s important to drink more water than normal and fuel with foods that are easy to digest, like carbohydrates, to give you the energy you need to finish strong.

Training Tips for High-Altitude Running

Incorporate hill workouts and altitude training into your regimen for at least 8-12 weeks before the race. This will help you adapt to the challenges of running at high altitudes and build endurance.

Top High-Elevation Races in Colorado

Now that you’re prepared, let’s take a look at some of the best high-altitude races in Colorado:

Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon

This iconic race takes runners up Pikes Peak, ascending over 7,800 feet in just over 13 miles. The full marathon is a grueling 26.2 miles and is not for the faint of heart. The summit offers breathtaking views, but runners need to be wary of the altitude and steep terrain. https://www.coloradorunnermag.com/event/pikes-peak-marathon/

Leadville Trail 100 Run

This race is a true test of endurance, running 100 miles through the Rocky Mountains. Runners cross high mountain passes and tackle steep inclines as they make their way through historic mining towns and scenic trails. https://www.coloradorunnermag.com/event/leadville-trail-100/

Mount Evans Ascent

Runners rise to the challenge of Mount Evans, Colorado’s highest paved road. This race is known for its spectacular views and steep inclines, with runners ascending over 14 miles and 3,500 feet in elevation gain. https://www.coloradorunnermag.com/event/mt-evans-ascent/

Hardrock 100 Endurance Run

The Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run is an ultramarathon of 100.5 miles in length, plus 33,050 feet of climb and 33,050 feet of descent for a total elevation change of 66,100 feet, at an average elevation of over 11,000 feet. https://www.coloradorunnermag.com/event/hardrock/

San Juan Solstice 50

This race is known as one of the toughest 50-mile races in the country, with runners hitting mountain passes and high-altitude terrain in the San Juan Mountains. The terrain is challenging and requires runners to be at their best both mentally and physically to complete the race. https://www.coloradorunnermag.com/event/san-juan-solstice-50-mile-run/

Slacker Half Marathon

Do not be misled by the name – this is the highest downhill half marathon in the country, beginning at 10,630 feet and traveling over a rolling hill descent to 8,400 feet! https://www.coloradorunnermag.com/event/slacker-half-marathon/

Tips for a Successful High-Elevation Race Experience

After you’ve picked the race, here are some tips to ensure you have a successful experience:

Pacing Strategies

Start slow and pace yourself, particularly if this is your first high-elevation race. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the start, but pushing too hard too soon can lead to burnout.

Dealing with Altitude Sickness

If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, like headaches or dizziness, stop and seek medical attention. Don’t try to push through it, as this can make the symptoms worse and potentially lead to serious illness.

Essential Gear for High-Altitude Races

Make sure you have the right gear for the race, including proper shoes, hydration systems, and layers for changing weather conditions. The right gear can make all the difference in your ability to complete the race and enjoy the experience.

Final Thoughts

Running at high elevations can be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences for runners looking to push their limits. By properly preparing and choosing the right race for your skill level, you can achieve new levels of physical and mental fitness while enjoying stunning mountain views and breathtaking trails. So, what are you waiting for? Start training for your next high-elevation race today!