To finalise your preparation for the UTMB®, understanding the types of aid stations and the conditions for assistance during the race is essential. This will help you better identify what types of nutrition are available, understand how authorised assistance works, and plan spare clothing for both during and after the race.
Nutrition and aid stations at the UTMB®
Depending on the race you have entered, there are a greater or lesser number of aid stations. It is essential to know them in advance via the runner's guide, and also to distinguish their type — whether they provide liquid refreshments only or solid food as well — in order to better plan your breaks and what you carry for your personal nutrition. You will find the aid station locations marked on the course map as well as by kilometre markers measured from the race start. Finally, only runners wearing their race number on their chest or stomach, their chip on their backpack, and their identification wristband will be allowed to access the aid station zones.
Assistance at the UTMB®
The UTMB® regulations allow for possible assistance at certain races and certain aid stations. Find out the details of this assistance, how it can be useful to you, and how to organise it effectively and efficiently to get the most out of it. And don't forget to register in advance with the race organisation the person providing your assistance, as they must carry assistance tickets to present in order to be admitted at each assistance point duly listed as such on the race course.
Spare clothing to prepare
Another important point to plan for in your race and assistance strategy is bringing spare clothing. First and foremost for the race itself, so you can change at least once during the event and run in perfectly dry, clean kit. But also for after the race to stay comfortable and aid your recovery by avoiding getting cold after the finish.
