Minnesota Woman Logs 12 Hours on the Treadmill to Prepare for 100-Mile Race
Barbara Powell, an avid ultra-marathoner from Minnesota, is training for the challenges of the Leadville 100, a demanding 100-mile trail race scheduled for August. As a part of her rigorous training regimen, she recently achieved a remarkable personal milestone by running for 12 consecutive hours on a treadmill at Life Time Edina, covering an impressive distance of 55 miles.
Embracing the Challenge
“First and foremost, I have to start at the mindset that running 100 miles is not actually insane,” Powell stated, expressing the importance of mental preparation in tackling such a daunting challenge. “I want to make sure that I’m built up and ready for it.” As an ultra-marathoner, she competes in races that exceed the traditional marathon distance of 26.2 miles, allowing her to push her physical and mental boundaries.
Her motivation for these grueling training sessions extends beyond personal achievement. The 12-hour treadmill session served a dual purpose, enabling her to develop the endurance necessary for the upcoming race while also raising funds for the Leadville 100, specifically benefiting the Life Time Foundation.
A Cause Worth Running For
The Life Time Foundation aims to promote healthier lifestyles through movement programs, nutrition initiatives, and environmental sustainability, such as tree planting programs. “It looks to raise money for movement programs, nutrition programs, as well as a healthy planet through tree planting programs,” she explained. This cause is integral to her journey as she prepares not only physically but also mentally for the profound experience of running 100 miles.
The Mental Game
Powell insists that running such a long distance is as much a mental exercise as it is a physical one. She emphasized the importance of training her mind, stating, “It’s the remarkable nature of noticing that I’ve really done some great inner work that I’m really proud of.” This psychological preparation is crucial for success, particularly when racing against the clock in the scenic but challenging terrain of Leadville, Colorado.
Previous Experience and Future Goals
This will mark Powell’s second attempt at the Leadville 100. During her first race, she completed the course in an impressive 28 hours and 15 minutes, and she is hoping to improve on that time this year. The race is scheduled to take place on August 16, with competitors looking forward to pushing their physical limits and sharing in the camaraderie that accompanies such events.
A Story to Share
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Powell has documented her experiences on the trails in her book titled Finding Leadville, which is now available for order on Amazon. This literary endeavor allows her to share insights and experiences from her time training and competing, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and resilience.
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Treadmill Run Duration | 12 hours |
| Distance Covered | 55 miles |
| Previous Leadville 100 Time | 28 hours, 15 minutes |
| Upcoming Race Date | August 16, 2025 |
As Powell prepares to face the challenges of the Leadville 100 race, her dedication to both her training and philanthropic efforts shines through, proving once again the power of endurance and purpose in overcoming obstacles.
