Endurance challenges push the boundaries of human capability, but few feats are as mind-boggling as running 58 marathons in 58 days. Australian ultra-endurance athlete Lachie Stuart took on this challenge, proving that with the right training, mindset, and recovery strategy, the human body can achieve incredible things.
If you’re wondering how to train like Lachie Stuart, this guide breaks down the key lessons from his 58 Marathons in 58 Days Challenge, covering training, nutrition, recovery, and mental resilience—everything you need to take your endurance game to the next level.
Building an Endurance Base
Running 42.2km (a marathon) every day for nearly two months requires a strong aerobic foundation. Lachie didn’t wake up one day and decide to run 58 marathons—his training was built on years of consistent endurance running.
Key Takeaways:
Start with High Mileage Weeks: Build a solid aerobic base by running 80-120km per week (depending on experience level). Gradually increase mileage to avoid injury.
Long Runs are Crucial: Incorporate back-to-back long runs (e.g., 30km on Saturday, 20km on Sunday) to adapt to cumulative fatigue.
Train on Tired Legs: To mimic marathon-after-marathon fatigue, include double run days and back-to-back hard sessions.
Strength & Conditioning for Durability
Running isn’t just about running—your body needs to be strong enough to withstand the repeated impact. Lachie focused on strength training to improve muscular endurance and prevent injuries.
Key Strength Exercises:
Single-leg squats & lunges – Improve balance and prevent imbalances.
Calf raises & plyometrics – Strengthen lower leg muscles for endurance.
Core stability work – Helps maintain good posture during long runs.
Resistance band work – Targets smaller stabilising muscles to prevent overuse injuries.
Mastering Recovery: The Secret to High Mileage
Running daily marathons isn’t just about training hard—it’s about recovering smarter. Lachie’s approach to recovery was just as meticulous as his training plan.
Recovery Lessons:
Prioritise Sleep: Quality sleep (7-9 hours per night) is the best performance enhancer.
Active Recovery Works: Easy runs, mobility drills, and stretching promote faster recovery.
Compression and Cold Therapy: Lachie used ice baths, compression gear, and massage to reduce muscle soreness.
Listen to Your Body: A niggle ignored can turn into a major injury. Reduce intensity if something feels off.
Nutrition for Performance and Recovery
Fueling properly for back-to-back marathons requires constant energy intake. Lachie’s nutrition plan ensured his body had the carbs, protein, and fats needed for sustained endurance.
Key Nutrition Strategies:
Carb Loading Daily: Since he burned thousands of calories per marathon, consuming enough carbs was essential.
Hydration & Electrolytes: Long-distance running depletes sodium, so he used electrolyte drinks to stay balanced.
Protein for Muscle Repair: Post-run protein shakes helped repair muscle fibres.
Real Food vs. Gels: Whole foods like bananas, oats, and rice provided steady energy.
Mental Resilience: The X-Factor
Physical fitness is one thing, but running 58 marathons in 58 days is just as much a mental battle. Lachie relied on mindset techniques to push through fatigue and adversity.
Mental Training Takeaways:
Break it Down: Instead of focusing on 58 days, Lachie took it one marathon at a time.
Mantras & Positive Self-Talk: Phrases like “one step at a time” kept him going.
Embrace the Suffering: Lachie understood that discomfort is part of endurance running and learned to lean into it.
Community & Accountability: Running for a cause and having supporters kept him motivated.
Structuring Your Own Ultra-Endurance Plan
If you want to train like Lachie Stuart—whether for an ultra-marathon, multi-day race, or just to push your limits—here’s how to build your plan:
Weekly Training Plan Example:
Monday
Medium/long run (60/90min) Zone 2
Tuesday
60 minutes (Zone 2)
Wednesday
Threshold session (8-10km interval work)
Thursday
Easy run 45minutes
Friday
Medium run 1hour (Zone 2)
Saturday
Long run 2+ hours
Sunday
Active recovery
Gear for Endurance Success
Training like Lachie requires the right gear to stay comfortable and injury-free.
Essential Gear:
- Yeah Buddy Running Caps (e.g., The 58 Cap) – Protects from sun exposure and heat.
- Moisture-wicking clothing – Prevents chafing and keeps sweat under control.
- Lightweight running shoes – Rotating between pairs helps prevent overuse injuries.
- Hydration vest or handheld bottles – Essential for long training runs.
Final Thoughts: Can You Train Like Lachie Stuart?
While running 58 marathons in 58 days might not be your goal, training like Lachie Stuart can transform your endurance, mental strength, and overall resilience. By focusing on progressive mileage, strength, recovery, nutrition, and mindset, you’ll be on your way to unlocking new levels of performance.
Whether you’re an aspiring ultra-runner or just want to push your own limits, the key takeaway from Lachie Stuart’s challenge is simple: Consistency, discipline, and a strong mindset make the impossible possible.
Now, the only question is—what’s your next challenge?