UB515: Science, Mind, and the Journey of Ultraman Fabiano Peres

Initially skeptical, Fabiano fell in love with the Ultraman philosophy, which revives the sport's more grassroots spirit, with fewer participants and a greater focus on the essence of the sport. For him, training for ultra distances is "pleasurable" and "comfortable," preferring volume over the intensity of shorter races.

The Philosophy and Training of a Champion

Preparation for an Ultraman is a long and meticulous cycle. Fabiano begins his training in November or December for the race that takes place in April. The training peak extends from January to April, with eight weeks considered crucial.

Volume and Recovery Strategies

During peak training, weekly volumes are impressive: 15 to 18 km of swimming, 500 km of cycling, and 100 to 110 km of running. This totals between 23 and 27 hours of weekly training. His methodology includes:

• Fractionation: Breaking long workouts into smaller sessions to optimize recovery. For example, 30 km of running can be split into two 15 km sessions, with rest in between. Cycling elevation is simulated on an indoor trainer during the week to spare the body.
• Microcycles: Prioritizing one discipline per week. One week focuses on high running volume, with lower bike volume, and the following week, the volumes are reversed.
• Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE): Fabiano doesn't adhere to power outputs or heart rate, but rather to subjective perceived exertion (RPE). He aims to maintain an RPE of 7 in his long workouts, adjusting the pace according to body feel, which allows for a more fluid adaptation to the body's demands. Adaptation, rest, and listening to the body are crucial.

Nutrition and Supplementation in Ultra

Nutritional strategy is the "must-have" in Ultraman. Mistakes in fueling can "break" an athlete, even the most trained. Fabiano, who worked with nutritionist Tati Guaranini and had the support of Thiago Menutti, emphasizes:

• High carbohydrate intake: An average of 100 to 120g of carbohydrates per hour during high-volume training.
• Protein: Significantly increased protein intake in his preparation.
• Supplements: Prioritizes liquid carbohydrates, water, Liquid Ice, salt tablets, and foods like paçoca (peanut candy), bananinha (banana bar), and açaí. He avoids gels, which can cause gastric discomfort.
• Staff: The support team, led by his wife, is vital for constant replenishment during the race.

Mental Challenges and the Power of Resilience

During the race, the mind is constantly tested. Fabiano doesn't think about the total distance (515 km) but rather about micro-goals, dividing the course into smaller segments to make it more "achievable" and prevent mental "breakdown." Interaction with the support team, though essential, can be a point of stress, as illustrated by the famous scolding of his physiotherapist "Bola" at a checkpoint in Serra de Litória, which went viral on social media.

The Ultraman Brazil is globally recognized for its structure and organization, being one of the strongest in terms of competitive level. Although it is not a direct entry point to the Ultraman Hawaii (which requires qualifications in other races like Florida or Arizona), the UB515 attracts international athletes and has a growing number of participants.

The cost to participate in an Ultraman in Brazil ranges from R$ 15,000 to R$ 20,000, including registration, hotel, bike maintenance, and supplementation, in addition to staff expenses. Fabiano seeks sponsorship and sells t-shirts to help with costs.

Fabiano also highlights the importance of strength training. His Power Fast Runner method focuses on two weekly 30-minute sessions of specific exercises for running and elastic bands for swimming, which also benefits cycling.

More Than Sport: A Personal Struggle

Asked if ultra endurance is good for one's health, Fabiano shared a moving and deeply personal account. During the pandemic, in a moment of financial and mental despair in January 2021, the dream of competing in Ultraman became his anchor of salvation, warding off suicidal thoughts. The 2022 race, where he secured third place, represented a turning point, restoring his self-belief and making him feel like a "monster" of resilience. This story underscores that, for many, ultra-distance sports go far beyond competition, serving as a journey of self-discovery and personal triumph.

The journey of Fabiano Peres in Ultraman UB515 is a testament to the human capacity to overcome limits. Whether through meticulous training strategy, impeccable nutrition, or unwavering mental strength, the life of an ultratriathlete is an ode to resilience. May his story inspire everyone to find their own "Ultraman" and discover the strength that resides within each of us.