Mads Skaaning: Life as an elite runner

Interview with Mads Skaaning

Mads Skaaning's interest in running began as a child, when he participated in children's races in connection with the Copenhagen Marathon. Since then, he has developed into one of Denmark's strong ultrarunners, with, among other things, the Danish National Championship in the 100 kilometer category on his CV.

In the interview, he talks about his motivation, what a typical training week looks like, the biggest challenges of life as an elite runner – and why he works to find joy in running from within rather than in other people's expectations.

How did your interest in running start, and when did you start taking it more seriously?

It all started when I participated in the Copenhagen Marathon as a child. I was 5-6 years old, and my dad was running the marathon that day, so it was obvious that I could try it too.

When I was 10-11 years old, I ran my first half marathon. It was really hard because it took so long, but I was proud afterwards and could feel that I got something good out of it. At that time, I ran a couple of times a week, both with my dad and alone. Not structured – but enough that I felt how fun it was to get better.

What motivates you the most when you lace up your shoes and go for a run?

It's still the feeling of improvement. I think it's great that running is so concrete – the more you do it, the better you get. I also see it as a kind of experiment: if I change the training a little, the result may be different. Recently I tried heat training to increase blood volume, and it was exciting to feel the effect.

"I've never had the perfect race – and maybe that's what drives me."

- Mads Skaaning

Do you have a particular race or achievement that stands out as a highlight so far?

It must be the 100 kilometer Danish championships in the spring. I wouldn't say it was perfect – I don't actually feel like I've had the perfect race yet. But maybe it's very nice, because then you always have something to chase.

What does a typical training week look like for you?

I usually have two quick quality runs a week, a long run on Sunday and other leisurely runs in between. I live in Kokkedal and often use commuter runs as training – for example when I run into Copenhagen from Hellerup st.

What is the hardest and coolest thing about being an elite runner?

The hardest part is combining training with a regular life. If you work 40 hours a week and have to run 15-20 hours at the same time, you run out of energy and time quickly.

The coolest thing is that it feels like a privilege. To be able to focus so much on myself, while having a family, wife, friends and a job. I try to remind myself how lucky I am to live in Denmark, where you can pursue your passion without having to risk everything.

If you could choose one race in the world to participate in – which would it be?

A 100 kilometer race in Hokkaido, Japan, called the Lake Saroma Ultramarathon. It takes place in July, and I think it looks really cool. It could be a huge experience – both the race itself and the travel around it.

Do you have a favorite place to run?

I grew up in Frederikssund, so I have many memories of my first runs there. Later, when I lived in Hvidovre, I ran a lot on Vestvolden and in Valbyparken, which are still places I associate with something special. Now that I live in Kokkedal, I often go for walks along Strandvejen, and on the long Sunday runs I like to run all the way to Helsingør and back.

Who inspires you – inside and outside of running?

I've never had idols like that. I'm more inspired by people who discover new things that I can try out myself. I'd rather experiment than just follow a set program.

What goals are you working on right now?

I was selected for the 50km World Championships in India, but had to withdraw due to injury. In the longer term, I would like to run a fast 100km again – maybe also the World Championships at that distance – but right now I am injured for an indefinite period.

What do you hope people associate your name with when they hear about you as a runner?

I actually try not to think about it too much. I've spent way too much time wondering what other people think, and I want to get away from that.

The most important thing for me is to find joy from within. If I can feel that I did well, then that's enough - no matter how many likes I get on Strava.

MADS SKAAN'S FAVORITES

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