Trying to figure out how to pace your next backyard ultra? Hint, faster does not mean better in the backyard!
In this short but packed episode, we break down one of the most important and most misunderstood parts of the backyard ultra format: pacing. Whether you’re brand new to the backyard or looking to improve your strategy, this episode covers practical pacing advice, how to train for consistent hourly loops, and what to plan for on race day.
We talk about common mindset traps runners fall into, why road paces don’t translate to trails and backyards, and how to use walking and low effort levels to your advantage. You’ll learn how much time you actually need at camp between yards, why early loops feel too easy, and how to stay mentally steady when your breaks get shorter. I also share data from the 2025 Big’s Backyard Individual World Championship to show how the top runners manage their pace and effort.
From managing night loops and crew support to handling stiffness, panic moments, and course-specific strategy, this episode gives you a clear, realistic approach to pacing yourself further than you think possible. If you want to go deeper and personalize your pacing strategy, I have 1:1 coaching spots available.
Use code JaciWilson25 for 25% off your registration for the 2026 Duff Dog Backyard Ultra through November 30, 2025.
Takeaways
👉 Don’t miss the next yard. Hit Follow on The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Races, and the Ultrarunning Mindset.
⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a quick review. It helps more runners find the show and keep going when they want to stop.
📲 Connect with me on Instagram → @onemorehourpodcast
📩 Got a story about going one more? I’d love to hear it. Email me at → theonemorehourpodcast@gmail.com
🎁 Freebie → 5 Mental Traps Backyard Runners Fall Into (and How to Fix Them)
⭐️ Learn more about working with me on my website
