The Tower Run

It’s not a long race, so you don’t necessarily need to fuel for it. Don’t over eat and start on a full stomach, the lighter you feel, the more comfortable the climb will be.

Energy pouches are better for endurance type events, so not usually for stair climbing. If you do choose to consume energy pouches or drinks, we would recommend doing so at least 10-15 minutes prior to your start time.

Pacing yourself is key, practice this in your training. Start slow and find yourself a steady pace. If you feel like you are going too slow at the start, you’re probably at a good pace to get to the top!

We recommend that you do use the hand rail to help pull yourself up.  Either hand over hand on the inside rail, or use the rails on both walls to help take the strain off your legs. Even the most experienced tower runners make good use of the handrails, most will have perfected their own handrail technique.

We recommend that you start with a swift walk, not too fast. You can then alter your pace as appropriate. Try to be as consistent as possible.

It’s more efficient to take the steps two at a time so we recommend that you do this for as long as possible, making sure that you go down to one at a time if it starts to feel tough.

You don’t need to count the stairs as the floors will be numbered but we recommend you do whatever you need to, to keep yourself mentally focused. For some people, counting really helps. Trust in your training and keep your approach consistent.

It is really important to make sure you are hydrated before the event so make sure you are drinking enough water beforehand. This will keep you going during the towerclimb. You can then rest on landing 42 before taking on the next part of your challenge. Water will be provided so there is no need to carry your own.

Climbing etiquette should see the slower climber move to the outside of the stairwell. Move across if you can and allow the faster climber through on the inside.

As you approach a slower climber, make sure you alert them so that they know you are about to pass them. Stay on the inside and allow them to move to the outside.

Walk don’t run! Our best advice is to try a swift, consistent two step walk. It will be almost impossible to sustain a run throughout. If you’ve still got energy left by the top then go for a sprint finish, but we’d recommend against a sprint start.

If you can, go for it!

Reducing the number of steps is the key for optimising your run, so if you can take just one step on each landing you’ll save a lot of time over the duration of the climb.

If you’re starting to tire you can take a moment on the landings to catch your breath, being conscious to let faster climbers past.

You should recover quickly if you take the opportunity to rest and refuel on Landing 42. Make sure you head to the water station and stretch out those muscles.

In short, no. It’s important that you can hear other climbers on the stairs as well as any health and safety announcements. Don’t worry, the Skyscraper Challenge team will make sure that you entertained and energised throughout the challenge.