Ultra Marathon Videos

Some of My Impactful Ultra Marathon Videos

See my YouTube page Motivation Theory Running for access to over 1000 videos.

Hello, my name is John and I am an East Coast (USA) Ultra runner (over 12 years), I make motivational and informative videos each week about running, ultra running, trail running, weight loss, recovery, fitness, health, product and running shoe reviews. I want to spread positivity, kindness, support and encouragement through my videos and running experience by sharing my stories and adventures in running and on the trails.

Whether you are new to running, someone looking to just lose weight with casual running or an experienced runner looking to start running ultra marathons you are in the right place. Welcome to the Motivation Theory Running Community!

The Dark Side of Ultra Marathons No One Talks About

Explore the hidden mental and physical toll of ultras, including post-race depression, irritability, hormonal disruptions, and personal stories from tough 100-milers.

MAF Low Heart Rate Training - Simplified

Learn the Maffetone Method: train at or below your max aerobic heart rate to build fat-burning efficiency, boost endurance, and prioritize long-term health.

How To Pace For Your First Ultra Marathon - Is the Run-Walk Method Bad?

Master pacing for your debut ultra with flexible run-walk strategies, race research, and tips to avoid starting too fast and burning out.

3 Hard Truths of Running Ultra Marathons

Uncover the demanding realities of ultras—terrain challenges, gear needs, and key mindset shifts for thriving on the trails.

Preparing For Your First 100 Mile Ultra Marathon | Gear I Pack

Essential packing guide for a 100-miler: hydration, nutrition, clothing layers, first aid, lighting, and race-specific must-haves.

The Dark Side of Ultra Marathons | Part 2 - Sleep Deprivation

Deep dive into sleep deprivation's effects in ultras—mood swings, hallucinations, coping strategies, and stories from extreme races like Badwater.

At-Home Sleep Apnea Tests May Help You Live Longer

Personal look at sleep apnea's impact on health and performance, plus a review of easy at-home testing for better recovery and longevity.

Every Runner Needs to Watch this Video

Critical pacing advice for ultras: avoid starting too aggressively, manage energy for the long haul, and sustain a strong finish.

Ultra Marathon Training: Secret to Base Building - Effort vs Pace

Focus on perceived effort over pace in base training, using walk-run intervals and consistency to build mental toughness without burnout.

I Really Need to Say This About Running

Celebrating the mental health benefits of trails and nature for everyone—walkers, joggers, runners—prioritizing joy and inclusivity over distance.

Why Only 7 in 1 Million People Run Ultramarathons?

Explore the rarity of ultra running and its unique demands. Explains why so few people participate.

3 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Running Ultra Marathons

Shares three key lessons from early ultra experiences to help beginners avoid common pitfalls.

4 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Ultra Marathons

Lists four essential tips for new ultra runners, focusing on preparation and mindset for success.

How To Bring Your Running HR Down | Maffetone Method and ZONE 2 vs. STRAVA

Explains lowering heart rate using the Maffetone method and compares Zone 2 training to Strava metrics.

I Did It Again - Running Mistakes You MUST Avoid

Highlights common running mistakes ultra runners must avoid and provides advice to improve training and racing.

Can Running Actually Improve Your Mental Well-being?

Examines running's impact on mental health and discusses benefits for ultra runners dealing with stress.

Running Changed My Life - Here's The Hidden Truth | Part 2

Continues the story of how running transformed life, revealing hidden challenges and rewards.

How to Not Suck and Get Back in Shape

Offers tips to regain fitness and improve running performance while avoiding common mistakes.

Here is How to Train Like The Elite Runners

Shares training methods used by elite ultra runners and strategies for amateurs to adopt.

Running 6500 Miles

Recounts the experience of running 6500 miles and shares lessons from extensive ultra running.

How I STOP Bonking In Ultra Marathons

Explains techniques to prevent bonking during ultras, focusing on nutrition and pacing strategies.

Recovery Mistakes That Are Hurting Your Fitness

Identifies common recovery errors that hinder gains and offers solutions for ultra runners.

The HONEST TRUTH about Ultra Marathons

Provides an honest overview of ultras, discussing realities beyond the excitement.

How Running Pro Sally McRae Balanced Family Life and Training

Features ultra runner Sally McRae on balancing family and training—insights for busy runners.

My New Approach to Running 100 Miles

Details an updated strategy for 100-mile races with practical tips for success.

Three Secret Habits to Become a Lifelong Runner (Not What You Think!)

Reveals three unconventional habits for sustainable, long-term running success.

I Fixed My Ultra Marathon Training Problems in 7 Minutes

Describes quick fixes for common ultra training issues to optimize preparation.

6 Important Things I Have Learned About Ultra Running

Lists six key lessons from years of ultra running experience.

How I Run With a Life That Has Zero Time

Explains time-efficient running strategies for extremely busy schedules.

How I Thrive as a Middle-Aged Runner

Shares approaches to successful running in middle age, focusing on health and performance.

What’s My Secret to Finishing Ultra Marathons?

Reveals the secret to completing ultras with motivational and practical advice.

The Dark Side of Ultra Marathons: You WILL Quit

Discusses mental challenges in ultras that lead to quitting and strategies to push through.

The Dark Side of Ultras: 3 Mistakes in Running 100 Miler & Fixes

Highlights three common mistakes in 100-mile races and provides fixes to avoid them.

My Worst Ultramarathon Moments: I Came Back for More

Recounts toughest ultra moments and explains returning stronger.

100 Mile Race Prep That Actually Helped Me

Shares effective preparation methods for 100-mile races that worked in practice.

My 100 Mile Race Training - WILL IT WORK?

Outlines a 100-mile training plan and discusses its potential effectiveness.

Ultra Running DNF?

Addresses what to do after a Did Not Finish (DNF) in ultras, with recovery and future advice.

Crush Pre-Race Anxiety Before Your Ultra Marathon

Provides tips to manage anxiety before ultra races and stay calm and focused.

The Short TRUTH about Ultra Marathons

Delivers a concise truth about the nature of ultra marathons—challenges and rewards.

Ultra Marathon Training: What Elite Runners Do Differently

Explains unique training aspects of elite ultra runners for personal improvement.

1.5 Hours of Ultra Running Tips for Everyone

Compiles an extensive list of ultra running tips covering all levels.

Which is Harder? Marathons or Ultra Marathons?

Compares the difficulties of marathons and ultras—physical and mental demands.

Rediscovering Your Runner’s Spark: Motivation for Middle-Aged Runners

Helps middle-aged runners regain motivation and reignite passion for running.

The Effects of Running Ultra Marathons

Examines the physical and mental impacts of ultra running with a balanced long-term view.

This Tip Made Me Better Ultrarunner Immediately

Shares a single tip that significantly and immediately improved ultra running performance.

The Most Important Training Tip That Improved My Ultra Running

Highlights the most crucial training tip and its impact on ultra performance.

How I Mastered My Race Day Nutrition | Ultra Marathon Training

Details approaches to nutrition on ultra race day with strategies for optimal fueling.