Race Media

Swedish mountain guru Anders Kleist (Inov8) - heading to MSIG Lantau 50

Michael Maddess of Action Asia Events catches up with the Linköping, Swedish born Anders Kleist who's been ripping the European mountains this summer and heading to Hong Kong this December for the MSIG VK and 50km.....Guess that mean's Action Asia Events better come up with a combined prize for the ones attempting the double...

What got you into running?

The feeling of being free and the possibility to get out without using your brain. After a day working by the computer running is the perfect lunch and after work activity.

What keeps you motivated when tired and you must keep up training?

The feeling that my competitors are probably even more tired. If I can push the limits when I am training I can push harder on competitions and I can feel my self-confidence grow.

Any idea on number of marathons you have run over the distance of 42k? Or number of running races entered if don’t know…

I have run two mountain marathon last year and before that some more long trail races. Together maybe around 10 races. The length is no issue for me.

What is your definition of trail running or skyrunning…
When you also need technical skills and a big heart to race, not only physical skills.

Most memorable race or running experience?
For two years ago a won the biggest Swedish mountain marathon race without pressing my limits, I loved the experience and this year I was back in even better shape after one year of injury. That was a fantastic feeling.

Favorite training course and why?

The Swedish mountain marathon, “AXA fjällmaraton” is extremely nice. I think it have everything I like, nice climbs, smooth downhills and some parts of marsches. Very very beautiful and demanding.

As you do so many big long distance races (and in the mountains!!) how do you prepare to combat the challenges of injury that humble some of the best runners each year?
I try to do as much running as possible on sift ground the save the body. Only doing necessary hard surface training. I always try to be preper for the competition and never start a race I’m not prepared to run.

What are your personal and/or team goals for the year?
I wanted to do marathon time to qualified for world champs. Become sick and have to skip that competition. Then I wanted to succeed in “Fjällmaraton”. I succeeded with that and now I want to push my limits and go very strong in Lantau50.

Difference between racing in Asia and your home country do you think?
I have no idea, never been racing in Asia, but I think it will be very hard ground and much warmer conditions.

Have you ever had a running coach and what did you learn from them?    Which teammate or coach has taught you the most over your career?
I had a trainer when I was young learned very much how to connect with training and how to push your limits. Nowadays I do all my scheduling myself and try to be so updated as possible with information about how to train. But anyhow, I now my body best.

What is your typical race day routine?  Do you have any prerace superstitions?
 I try to stay focus, eat normal and just feel relaxed. Nothing really special.

What is the one moment in your career that you are most proud of?
 When I come back this year after one year of injury and was even better than before. Took “fjällmarathon” very serious and no one was even close to follow me.

Personal records?
 1.05.19 on half marathon. 30.04 on 10km. But I’m not an asphalt runner…

Ever injured? Which kind and how serious?
I’m an old man, have a lot problems with Achilles during the years. Twisted my ankles too many times. But most problems I had with Morton neuroma last year. This is my only injury I have need surgery to solve.

Hot or cold weather runner?
I like conditions when other does not like it. But I suppose during winter here it is not the best to race in very warm conditions.

Morning or evening runs?
Lunch and evening. It can be tired legs in the morning..

What is your motivation?
To beat other running.

Best part of running:
The freedome.

If I didn't run I__ ___.
I would hang out more with my family.

I can't run without_________.
My GPS watch.

Favorite gel flavor?
Enervit

How many days after a marathon do you usually start running again?
Two days.

What is your typical night before the big race meal?
Small amount of rice and some tuna.

What's the farthest you've ever run at one time?
Around 6 hours.

Any other comments to encourage ultra runners to go the distance? Or just motivation advice to beginners??
It just racing, try to push your limits and you will feel your confidence grow!

Look forward to seeing Anders in December at the MSIG Lantau Action Asia event.