Lieven D.

Fantomes 100K

With the Trail des Fantomes 100k as my goal, I was looking for a trainer/coach who could primarily assist me in preparing for the combination of distance AND over 4,000 meters of elevation gain. At 46, I didn't want to try anything myself first, so I opted for guidance. I had already run some shorter trails (Ardennes & Vosges), but how do I prepare for the many meters of elevation gain in this flat environment? Above all, I wanted to be able to finish comfortably and enjoy the journey that every ultra is, or should be.

I'd already heard about Erik through UltraRunnersTalk about the Polar Running Expeditions. After contacting him and having an initial conversation, it immediately felt like a good fit. Erik has a scientifically sound foundation and draws on extensive experience. What really appealed to me was that Erik wants to help you become an independent ultrarunner. All aspects are covered: core and strength, volume training, and certainly specific (terrain) training. Thanks to the wide variety of training methods, it never got boring. A physical setback (a strained popliteal tendon) during a strength training session was also addressed effectively with additional exercises to strengthen the knee and alternative endurance training on the bike.

Ultimately, I managed to comfortably complete the Trail des Fantomes 100k and even finished a respectable 23rd on my first ultratrail. I certainly didn't expect that, or dared to hope for it. Therefore, I can't thank Erik enough for his contribution!

Lieven; AUG 2021