Tom Evans shows us the secret to recovering from brutal ultras
Tell us about yourself.
I’m Tom Evans, 27 years old, a professional ultra-distance trail runner.
What was the last thing you trained for?
Lake Sonoma 50 miler.
What kind of schedule/program did you follow?
I tend to run 6 days a week with an average volume of around 200km per week. I still include two quality sessions, as well as 2 strength and conditioning sessions and around 6 hrs on the bike. My goal was to to finish on the podium, which I did!
How do you evaluate your performance of a training session?
I like to go on how I feel during my training sessions. Every session serves a purpose, you don’t always have to go all out at 100%. Having said that, I will analyse all sessions with my coach, Allison Benton (AB Training Group) to look at any improvements and how we can continue.
What’s next? What are you training for now?
I’m currently in Ethiopia training for the Western States 100. This will be my first 100 mile race!
Do you have a kit sponsorship?
Yes, Adidas. This was a childhood dream, which I achieved back in January 2019.
What trainers do you use?
Sessions: Adidas Boston Boost
Trails: Adidas Terrex Speed LD
Check out my social media for some new shoes coming soon… but shhh!
What apparel do you use?
Adidas and Adidas Terrex kit. It’s lightweight, performance orientated and it looks epic. As a Red Bull athlete I wear Red Bull headwear. I tend to go for a lightweight mesh cap, but it depends on the weather.
What are the key items in your kit bag?
MyProtein elastic bands – £10.99, myprotein.com
Bose noise cancelling headphones –£114.99, amazon.com
AMP Performance lotion – £49.99, amphumanperformance.com
Compex SP8 – £799, amazon.com | compex.com (US)
Pulse Roll foam roller – £109, amazon.com
A can of Red Bull.
What one item of your gear would you implore someone else to use?
Compex SP8. This is my favourite recovery tool. I use it a couple of times a day as I find it really helps me to recover from my last session, and prepare me for my next.
Where’s the best place you’ve trained or competed?
Probably Costa Rica – I did a 6-day multi-stage race there in 2018. Every day was so varied and the scenery was amazing. Having said that, Ethiopia is pretty epic!
What’s the exercise you hate doing the most?
Isometric calf holds. I aim for 6 sets of 10s on each leg
Quickfire questions
What’s your ultimate workout song?
Remember the name – Fort Minor.
How many push-ups can you do in one go?
I have no idea… what’s a push-up?
If you could compete/train anywhere in the world where would it be?
Patagonia – Mountain Running World Championships 2019.
Who’s your fitness/sporting hero?
Richie McCaw.
Is there any sport you’re really bad at?
Golf.
What’s your favourite post-competition/challenge meal?
Almond Croissant.
Supplement or natural?
