Exploring the culture of trail and ultra running

Led by researchers at the University of Central Lancashire, this project aims to explore and document the growth of trail and ultra running in North America and the UK. Combining detailed survey data, media analysis and in depth interviewing, the project will provide unique insight into the culture of this sporting phenomenon.

This project covers it all - from long and short distance fell running in the UK, through to desert ultras and mountain marathons in the U.S.

Every runner and running enthusiast is invited to participate. Whether you run long, short or simply enjoy following and supporting the sport - this project is for you.

How has trail and ultra running grown in North America and the UK since the 1980s? This graph shows the number of finishers at races. Steady growth in the 1990s in the U.S., but a relative plateau in the UK. Followed by a pretty steep rise in both co
How has trail and ultra running grown in the U.S. and the UK? Take a look at the data below... why do you think there has been such a steep rise in the number of races over the last decade? If you want to help contribute to the project, please visit
Given that we live in risk-averse and comfort-driven societies, why do trail and ultra runners seek out apparent misery and danger? How is suffering and risk framed and understood within the trail and ultra running community? Is risk and discomfort a
Why do we do it? Dragging ourselves out of a warm bed for yet another early morning training run. Struggling through the mental and physical low points of a race. Risking injury, battling the elements. Spending days and weeks hobbling around after th

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