Trail run

GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf

GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf takes place on Sat, May 22, 2027 in Eisenach, Germany. The main route is 73.9 km.

The GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf is Europe's largest cross-country running event, traversing the scenic ridge trail of the Thuringian Forest in Germany.

What this race demands

The GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf demands sustained endurance over a 73.9 km cross-country trail route with 1403 meters of elevation gain.

Ultra-Distance Endurance

Covering 73.9 km requires an aerobic base capable of sustaining forward motion for many continuous hours.

Continuous Climbing

Accumulating 1403 meters of elevation gain across the Thuringian Forest demands structural durability for repeated ascents and descents.

Aim for 60 to 90 grams of carbohydrates per hour to sustain energy output over the extended duration of a 73.9 km trail run.

Competitive (sub-3:00 marathoner)5:30–6:30

Intermediate (3:30 marathoner)6:30–7:45

First-timer / Finisher7:45–9:30

Estimates by level, not promises. Your own number depends on your fitness on the day.

Race day at GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf is 39 weeks away. This is how a coach divides that time. The first phase starts now.

01Base27 weeks · Aug 23, 2026 – Feb 27, 2027
Aerobic foundation: mostly steady endurance work that grows the aerobic engine and the durability the later phases stand on.
02Build6 weeks · Feb 28, 2027 – Apr 10, 2027
Progressive overload: training load climbs in waves, with harder weeks stacked on the base and planned recovery weeks that let the gains land.
03Peak3 weeks · Apr 11, 2027 – May 1, 2027
The hardest weeks of the plan: race-specific intensity at nearly full training load, sharpening exactly what this race asks for.
04Taper2 weeks · May 2, 2027 – May 15, 2027
Volume drops while intensity stays: short, sharp efforts keep the legs awake as fatigue drains away.
05Race week1 week · May 16, 2027 – May 22, 2027
Openers, rest and logistics. The work is done; the job now is arriving fresh.

Organising this race?