Claire Maxted
The co-founder and former editor of Trail Running magazine, Claire now runs the YouTube channel Wild Ginger Running, creating films about trail- and ultra-running advice, inspiration, races and gear reviews. An award-winning journalist, writing for outdoor and adventure sports magazines and websites, Claire's first book, The Ultimate Trail Running Handbook (5k to 50k), is out now. Her second, The Ultimate Ultra Running Handbook (50k to 100 miles), is out Autumn 2024. Claire also speaks and presents at events and races.
Latest articles by Claire Maxted
![A woman trail running gear and holding running poles stands in front of a scenic mountain view](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RLbxNKJns32TzwTzzWS23K-320-80.jpg)
I came last! Celebrating five ultra runners who made it to the finish line
By Claire Maxted published
In an ultra marathon, just finishing is a massive achievement – we celebrate the inspiring runners who never gave up
![vivobarefoot vs vibram fivefingers](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EmQtdxVanqbjqhZ2jYriJQ-320-80.jpg)
4 issues barefoot shoes can’t help you with (and the easy exercises that can)
By Claire Maxted published
Barefoot running shoes promise to fix many running woes, but there are better ways to tackle these four issues
![A woman stands at the edge of a lake, a resistance band around her lower legs, standing on one leg.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VXVjeSewJdwgQ6Cx7UcumF-320-80.jpg)
3 strength moves every trail and ultra runner should try
By Claire Maxted published
Improve your performance with these three easy reps
![Collage of the best running poles](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/epKTcd876QAPwSnYYzm5xW-320-80.jpg)
The best running poles: for ultra distance training, epic races, and fastpacking adventures
By Claire Maxted, Pat Kinsella last updated
The best running poles for tackling tricky terrain are lightweight, compact and easy to assemble, collapse and carry
![The feet and lower legs of a group of people running along a trail path, away from the camera.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/m7TunXP9MCBMpe9JsyA8L8-320-80.jpg)
11 top tips for your first (or fastest) trail race
By Claire Maxted published
Whether you're new to trail racing or a seasoned pro, ensure you have the best race possible with our expert tips
![A woman runner stretching out her arms on a grassy hilltop.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KQ3pXyYYUeaSVtsFpBG5WP-320-80.jpg)
Best warm-up for trail runners: an easy eight-minute routine
By Claire Maxted published
Planning an interval session or tempo training run? Make sure your muscles are warmed up before you begin with this simple routine
![Jasmin Paris at 2015 Langdale Horseshoe](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HFUwbpQMSiZXi6qbNtB4d3-320-80.jpg)
8 top tips for multi-day ultras: expert advice for following in Jasmin Paris’s footsteps
By Claire Maxted published
Elite mountain runner Shane Ohly knows there’s much more to ultra training than just running loads – here’s the fine tuning you need to know about
![A man runs down a grassy mountainside in bright sunshine](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/zeULXmBWKZ8kn97Bf5vAq6-320-80.jpg)
Run downhill like a pro with 13 tips from Kilian Jornet and more professional runners
By Claire Maxted published
Expert advice on how to speed up without falling down, from training your quads to unleashing your inner child
![headphones vs sounds of nature: runner with headphones](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/g5pmsvk6oA25NJYdjA38KM-320-80.jpg)
Headphones vs the sounds of nature: what's the best soundtrack for runs?
By Claire Maxted last updated
We consider headphones vs the sounds of nature for backcountry running and look at the pros and cons of each
![what to eat before running: salad](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/chHtbsbeFFFhFGjmR2GdNM-320-80.jpg)
What to eat before running: expert tips from a sports nutritionist
By Claire Maxted last updated
Our guide on what to eat before running to increase performance and avoid stomach upsets, nausea, fatigue and the dreaded runners’ runs…
![Soar Nano Rain Jacket](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KJBCRC5o45y8xeBWh5r4k3-320-80.jpg)
Soar Nano Rain Jacket review: reasonably functional and eco-friendly, but lacking flair
By Claire Maxted published
Very lightweight and durable, the Soar Nano Rain Jacket is a highly waterproof top for ultra running, made with ethical and sustainable manufacturing processes
![Harrier Baslow Waistbag](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HWazVEx3WizmuyVZKRBLWQ-320-80.jpg)
Harrier Baslow Waistbag review: a handy alternative to a bulky pack if you’re running light
By Claire Maxted published
Unlike many other bumbags and waistbelts, the Harrier Baslow Waistbag stays where it’s been put
![Collage of the best winter running shoes](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HvkWJvUwwUYfr2A23nGuaU-320-80.jpg)
The best winter running shoes: for cold, damp roads and muddy trails
By Claire Maxted last updated
The best winter running shoes will look after your feet regardless of how challenging the conditions become
![Collage of the best lightweight running jackets](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QVhMLRKtMeP2erSng3WFu3-320-80.jpg)
The best lightweight running jackets: barely-there waterproofs
By Claire Maxted last updated
Our roundup of the best lightweight running jackets to pop in your running pack as a wet weather emergency back-up, or to meet race requirements
![Collage of the best sports bras for running](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BTQRnMccqE66E6dzxpwG5X-320-80.jpg)
The best sports bras for running: for support and comfort
By Casey Blaine, Claire Maxted last updated
Selecting the best sports bra for running will give you the right mix of support, comfort and style for your road and trail runs
![Collage of the best cheap running shoes](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/zcjLFmmCtsP2vsuzfdJ54V-320-80.jpg)
The best cheap running shoes: for roads and trails
By Claire Maxted last updated
Running doesn’t have to set you back a pretty penny – the best cheap running shoes allow you to hit the trails without smashing your bank balance too
![Adidas Terrex Xperior Windweave zip](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jpY7g3DLA6n8ctawFWqUK5-320-80.jpeg)
Adidas Terrex Xperior Windweave Jacket review: avoid overheating with some superior ventilation
By Claire Maxted published
A body-mapped windproof shell jacket, the Adidas Terrex Xperior Windweave has more breathable fabric in higher warmth areas, like the underarms
![Woman running in SOAR Windbreaker](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LXqSuwfPrpoWu5ZF5qJ3pT-320-80.jpeg)
SOAR Windbreaker review: a warming road running layer for short, super-cool runs
By Claire Maxted published
Super soft-feel and brush-lined, the SOAR Windbreaker is a mid-weight windproof smock made of high quality fabrics with reflective details
![Beats Fit Pro](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/va7JpEUrvkTVWSKqMYBpSQ-320-80.jpeg)
Beats Fit Pro wireless in-ear headphones review: letting in more ambient sound than you’d expect from earbuds
By Claire Maxted published
Beats Fit Pro are the most secure and lightest in-ear headphones we’ve tested yet, and still provide great sound quality
![Real running heroes](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vKsXXVdVduCn3ivxDZqAfV-320-80.jpeg)
Real running heroes: meet the people making a difference on the roads and trails
By Claire Maxted published
It’s not just the fastest runners who deserve to grab the headlines
![Collage of eight of the best running headlamps](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DfeHZHNYVjG8AnA9T32ozZ-320-80.jpg)
The best running headlamps: tested on roads and trails
By Claire Maxted last updated
For running at dusk, dawn, or through the night, the best running headlamps offer comfort and great battery life
![A man runs across a rocky mountaintop](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/X2RisjzwCapsS6LyzGaMvb-320-80.jpg)
How to save money on ultra running
By Claire Maxted published
Hooked on ultra races but short on cash? Try our 15 top tips to run further for less
![A montage of the best running water bottles](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yZoiw7c5XNWvKd9ppfj6wD-320-80.jpg)
The best running water bottles: convenient hydration for mid-length runs
By Claire Maxted last updated
Our selection of the best water bottles for running available right now will help you select the best one to stay hydrated
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