Training in the Land of Champions: Inside Kenya’s Running Camps

Training in the Land of Champions: Inside Kenya’s Running Camps 🌍

Today’s newsletter is written by Letty, the host of the Marathon Running Podcast and YouTube Channel:

I recently had the amazing opportunity to travel to Kenya, the land of the world’s fastest marathoners, to film a documentary on the elite athletes who train in this incredible environment. From Sebastian Sawe’s 2:02 marathon time to Benson Kipruto and Amos Kipruto, both with 2:02 and 2:03 marathon times, Kenya is home to some of the most talented long-distance runners on the planet.

I spent my time there with the 2RunningClub, an elite group of runners, immersing myself in the Kenyan high-altitude training camps that produce these phenomenal athletes. And the best part? I documented the entire experience in a YouTube video series, so check out the series to see the training, the culture, and everything that makes these camps so special.

Why Kenya? The Benefits of High-Altitude Training

Kenya’s running camps are situated between 2,000-2,400 meters (6,500-8,000 feet) above sea level, providing an ideal environment for athletes to boost endurance. High altitude means less oxygen, which helps increase red blood cell production, improving oxygen delivery to muscles and ultimately making runs easier once back at sea level. This training method is a key component of Kenya’s marathon success.

A Day in the Life of Kenya’s Elite Runners

While training schedules vary, here’s a look at what a typical easy day looks like for these world-class athletes. Disclaimer - obviously this schedule varies on the athletes’ race calendar, workout schedule, etc:

• Morning Run: Start the day with a 21 km easy run to build steady endurance.

• Breakfast & Relaxation: After the run, athletes fuel up and take time to rest—many nap or keep off their feet to prepare for the next session.

• Lunch & Physio: A nutritious lunch and time to work with on-site physiotherapists to maintain peak physical condition.

• Afternoon Run: End the day with an easy 8 km run to keep the legs loose and active.

On average, these athletes run around 30 km a day on weekdays, which includes both long runs and recovery sessions. It’s a well-balanced routine that’s part of the secret behind Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running.

What Makes These Camps So Unique?

The magic of these camps isn’t just in the training—it's in the community and mental toughness. Runners in Kenya embrace a simple, focused lifestyle where everything revolves around training, recovery, and nutrition. This mindset, combined with a strong sense of camaraderie, is what drives their incredible success.

These camps aren’t just for elite athletes. Recreational runners can also train in Kenya and experience what it’s like to immerse themselves in this unique running culture.

Join Us for a Life-Changing Training Experience in Kenya!

Here’s the exciting news: we’re thinking of planning a group trip to Kenya, and you could be a part of it! 🌍

This trip would give you the opportunity to train in the same high-altitude camps as some of the fastest marathoners in the world. You’ll experience the daily routines, learn from the best, and see first-hand what makes Kenyan runners so special. Whether you’re looking to improve your performance, experience a different running culture, or simply push yourself in a new way, this is the perfect opportunity.

Interested? Reach out to us and let us know! We’ll be happy to share more details and get you involved in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.