Pushing Limits: Lessons from My First Ultra Trail Marathon

Running my first 50k ultra trail marathon was one of the most demanding and rewarding challenges of my life. It wasn’t just about covering the kilometers—it was about pushing through discomfort, discovering inner strength, and learning lessons that have transformed how I approach running and life as a whole.

In this post, I’ll share three key takeaways from my ultra marathon. While they’re rooted in running, these lessons can apply to any journey you’re navigating.

1.  Preparation Is Key, but You Can’t Plan for Everything

When I signed up for my first 50k, I knew preparation would be critical. I spent months training—gradually increasing my distances, testing my nutrition strategies, and getting comfortable on trails. Even with all the preparation, I still felt nervous at the start line. But I reminded myself: I had done everything I could to prepare.

Then reality hit. Trail running, especially over long distances, rarely goes exactly as planned. My biggest worry going in was meeting the time cut-off, but I quickly faced challenges I hadn’t anticipated: unexpected snow in September, nausea that left me heaving on the side of the trail, and even getting lost in the woods (if you know me, you know my sense of direction is nonexistent—more on that later in this post).

Despite everything, I kept moving forward and adapted along the way.

I layered up to stay warm.

I adjusted my nutrition strategy to calm my stomach

I relied on the support of other runners when I felt disoriented.

What I Learned: Preparation builds confidence, but adaptability is the real key to success. No amount of planning can account for every twist and turn, and that’s okay. Whether it’s a challenging race or an unexpected life event, the ability to adjust in the moment is what keeps you moving forward.

Practical Tip: Focus on controlling what you can—train diligently, prepare your tools, and build a strong foundation. But remember: setbacks aren’t failures. They’re opportunities to grow and practice resilience. If you're just starting on your running journey, overcoming physical challenges can prepare you for the unexpected.

2. You’re Never Alone in the Journey

One of the most unexpected joys of the ultra marathon was the sense of community. From runners sharing snacks at aid stations to volunteers cheering us on with boundless energy, I felt supported every step of the way.

Even small gestures—a smile, a nod, or a quick “You’ve got this!”—reminded me that, while running is often a solitary activity, we’re never truly alone.

Early in the race, I found myself locked in an unspoken battle for last place with another woman (if you were expecting a blog about tips and tricks to win races, you can move on to the next blog because that is definitely not my jam). We kept leapfrogging each other, and I used it as motivation to push harder. By the last 20km, I was ahead of her but knew she wasn’t far behind. Even though I was running alone, I felt her presence as a source of inspiration to keep going.

Then, with just 2km left, I got lost. Panic set in—until I heard a familiar voice. It was her. I doubled back, found her, and together we finished the race. Well, technically she sprinted ahead at the very end, so I came in last. But I didn’t finish alone. 

What I Learned: Community is everything. Leaning on others for encouragement, advice, or companionship doesn’t make you weaker—it makes you stronger. And sometimes, it’s okay to use a little healthy competition to keep yourself motivated. And remember, whether you run, walk, or both, you're still a runner.

Practical Tip: Surround yourself with people who inspire you, whether it’s through running clubs, social media communities, or supportive friends and family. Their energy and encouragement can carry you further than you’d go alone.

3. You’re Capable of More Than You Realize

Crossing the finish line of my 50k was surreal. The months of training, the hours of struggle on the trail, and every moment of doubt had led to this incredible accomplishment. I had done something I once thought was impossible.

At one point, I was convinced I wouldn’t make it. The race included a 30km cut-off, and by kilometer 27, I knew I was running out of time. Those last three kilometers before the cut-off felt endless. I was angry at myself for not running faster, bargaining in my head for another chance, and finally accepting that my race was over.

When I reached the cut-off point—well past the time limit—I started unpinning my bib. That’s when a race organizer came up to me. She told me I could continue if I wanted. In a split second, my plans shifted from a warm shower and rest to refilling my pack and heading back out. 

Those last 20km weren’t about physical strength. My legs didn’t carry me through—my mind did.

What I Learned: Our potential is often far greater than we give ourselves credit for. The limitations we set are usually mental, not physical. When you push past them, you discover a strength you didn’t know you had. Even short runs, when done consistently, build the resilience you need for greater challenges.

Practical Tip: Set a goal that scares you—one that feels slightly out of reach. Commit to it, and give yourself permission to struggle along the way. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone.

Final Thoughts

Running a 50k ultra marathon wasn’t just about testing my physical limits—it was a journey of self-discovery. I learned the power of preparation, the importance of mental resilience, the beauty of community, and the limitless potential we all carry within us.

These lessons continue to shape how I approach challenges in running and life. I hope they inspire you to step outside your comfort zone, chase your goals, and discover what you’re truly capable of.