2016年CRI Marathon Fans Challenge Themselves with High Temperature in Beijing（在线收听）

Despite temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius on Sunday, hundreds turned out in southwest Beijing to take part in what's known as an ultra-marathon.

More than twice the distance of a marathon, which is just over 42 kilometers, ultra-marathons are considered by runners as the ultimate test of personal endurance.

Among those taking part is long-distance running veteran Chen Penbin.

Chinese long-distance runner Chen Penbin prepares for running in Beijing on May 29, 2016. [Photo: CRIENGLISH.com]

The 38-year-old is one of the less-than-100 people who have run ultra-marathons on all seven continents. He has managed to win the Antarctic ultra-marathon once.

He admits the conditions in Beijing are a significant departure from those for running at the bottom of the world.

"I admit I'm a bit exhausted right now. I've run in four different marathons before arriving here in Beijing, so I think I'll just be happy to finish this event.

But it's going to be tough.

Right now it's only 7 o'clock in the morning, and the sun is already strong.

By the afternoon, I expect temperatures to be even higher, which is likely going to make me particularly uncomfortable."

As in all long-distance running events, the athletes' wellbeing is a major concern.

Li Xiaoqiang is the Vice Secretary-general of the Beijing Athletics Association, which is a co-organizer of the Beijing event.

He admits keeping the runners healthy is a major challenge in an ultra-marathon.

"Pre-assessment is the key. We always do pre-assessments before organizing any sporting events. We carefully examine the potential impact the event will have on the athletes and take steps to keep the risks to the runners minimal, while at the same time, providing them with a positive experience. 

This involves knowing the layout of the running course itself, what the best time to hold the race will be, and what we need to provide during the race itself."

Long-distance running in China has exploded in popularity over the past couple of years.

Last year, the Chinese Athletics Association officially registered 134 marathons across China, which is well more than double the 51 races which were officially sanctioned in China the year before.

What's driving a growing number of people in China to challenge themselves through long-distance running?

Hoping to capitalize on potential revenues from the sport, over 80 cities in China put on marathons last year, which is close to 30 more than in 2014.

But for the athletes themselves, events like the 100-kilometer race in Beijing on Sunday have little to do with money.

"I first decided to get into long-distance running just after I broke up with my ex-boyfriend. I've been running marathons for more than two years, and it has really helped me get through a difficult time in my life. It's given me confidence by challenging me to take part in various running events. It's also made me physically and mentally stronger. I think running has allowed me to adopt a positive attitude towards any ups and downs in my life."

"I drive a lot, and I've suffered from intense pain in my back and waist for quite some time. But after running marathons in the past couple of years, I feel much better. My diet has changed, which has helped to improve my health and my sleeping habits as well."

"We find happiness in the sport. Both my husband and I are marathon lovers. We share our feelings and experiences of a common hobby. I think we could communicate and understand each other better. And it's cool to make new friends who share the same passion. "

"For me, running extends the time stretch. It helps me make full use of the day. I get up at least one hour earlier in the morning since

I decided to be a runner. It also offers a good chance to build up team spirit by joining marathon relays."

Tian Bing, a marathon lover and Chief Editor of Track and Field Camp, a we-media focused on sports shard his experience of long-distance running.

"I think marathons are really interesting, and I like taking the challenge.

It helps me to escape from my daily routines and a busy life. I also joined various running competitions while travelling abroad.

I participated in a half marathon in England this March. I was impressed by the organization of the game. 

he last runner reached the finish line after five hours, and the staff members were still waiting there, which I think shows great respect for the competitors. You know, the cut-off time for a full marathon is usually set to be six hours. I think we can learn a lot from such events."

Sunday's ultra-marathon in Beijing is part of the "Challenge 100" series, which is being held in other major cities in China.

Winners of those events will qualify for the "Challenge 100" Final, which will be held in Beijing on June 26th.

Tips for beginning marathon runners from veteran runner Chen Penbin

Know your body:

Start with jogging for 20 minutes to 30 minutes everyday for three months, and try to feel the changes the practices bring to your body. Then try to run longer distances, for example, 2 kilometers per day. The intensity of training shoud be decided based on your physical conditions.

Watch your posture:

To make sure you posture is correct, ask for help from professionals if necessary.

Step by step:

Never overestimate your stamina, start with short distances and exercises to gain muscles.

Building a strong foundation is key.

Try to increase your speed gradually.