Top 3 Mistakes First-Time Backyard Runners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

If you're running your first backyard ultra, this episode will save your race. Most first-timers don’t get timed out. They fall into avoidable pacing, mindset, and fueling traps. Today, we’re breaking down the three biggest mistakes new backyard runners make, and exactly how to avoid them so you can stay in the race longer than you thought possible. You’ll learn: Why pacing like a marathoner destroys your backyard race How the REAL DNF happens in the chair, not on the loop What your fueling strategy must look like after hour 6 How to build early habits that protect your future self The mindset shift that keeps you moving when others quit Whether you're preparing for your first backyard or want to last longer in your next one, this episode gives you the strategy, patience, and mindset tools to stack more hours and surprise yourself with what you’re capable of. Takeaways Backyard Ultras require a different pacing strategy than traditional races. First timers often make the mistake of starting too fast. Mental challenges are a significant factor in DNF rates. It's crucial to have a plan for mental lows during the race. Don't quit in the chair; keep moving until the clock runs out. Nutrition should include real food, not just gels and sports drinks. Incorporate meals into your fueling strategy during the race. Expect to feel tired and have a plan to push through those feelings. Practice your fueling strategy during training runs. Control your race by managing your energy and mindset. 👉 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