Question 1

Why is Mathieu Blanchard considered a benchmark in ultra-trail?

Accepted Answer

Having arrived late to ultra-trail, Mathieu quickly made his mark on the biggest races on the circuit, notably at the 2022 edition of the famous UTMB, where he gave us an epic duel with none other than Kilian Jornet, finishing 2nd in one of the world's most competitive ultras. 
Since then, he has regularly made headlines, both in official ultra-trails and during "off" adventures, cementing his status as an exceptionally complete athlete.

Question 2

Which ultra-trail races has Mathieu Blanchard excelled in?

Accepted Answer

Here is a sample of Mathieu's already impressive race results: 
2nd at the Hardrock 100 in 2025

Winner of the Yukon Arctic Ultra in 2025

Winner of La Diagonale des Fous in 2024

Winner of the MaXi-Race in 2024

2nd at the UTMB in 2022

To these official races can be added "off" challenges that go beyond ultra, such as the transatlantic Cap Martinique. Proof, if any were needed, that Mathieu Blanchard sets no limits for himself.

Question 3

What is Mathieu Blanchard's approach to extreme races?

Accepted Answer

Mathieu Blanchard is not only an ultra-trail runner: he is also an adventurer. In his book 'Vivre d’aventures', he explains: 
“Adventure strips away the masks we wear every day, at work, with friends, even with family. It reveals. It leaves us raw, without our protective shell. It makes us live intensely.”
Thus, he sees in these extreme challenges an opportunity to get back to basics, to a more primal self. Performance, although central in some races, takes a back seat when he embarks on adventures that go beyond the scope of "traditional" ultra-trail.

Question 4

What is Mathieu Blanchard's trail training philosophy?

Accepted Answer

Learning to know yourself through effort, to feel your body and to stay attuned to your sensations. This is how one can summarize Mathieu's approach when developing the Campus trail plans. 
Rather than traditional target paces, he prefers what is called RPE, in other words perceived exertion, which takes into account the terrain and its specifics. Over pure mileage, he favors duration of effort and elevation gain. 
Choosing a plan of his own design means opting for a hybrid approach. MAS, long runs, uphill work, 30' and 60' thresholds… it's all there. But the framework adapts to the vagaries of trail running, allowing everyone to adapt each workout to their own situation. The goal? To arrive at the starting line ready and composed, no matter the distance or ability.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Mathieu Blanchard considered a benchmark in ultra-trail?

Which ultra-trail races has Mathieu Blanchard excelled in?

What is Mathieu Blanchard's approach to extreme races?

What is Mathieu Blanchard's trail training philosophy?

Your goal, your plan, your run.