Carla Molinaro is a professional ultra-runner and world record holder for the Land's End to John O'Groats run. With a passion for pushing physical limits, she has competed in some of the toughest endurance events worldwide, from 50km trail races to 100km road ultras. Known for her dedication, strategic race planning, and commitment to strength, conditioning, and yoga for runners, Carla continues to inspire athletes with her achievements and determination to break new records.
Q&A with Carla Molinaro
Learn more about Carla Molinaro's ultra-running journey, biggest achievements, future goals, and why she uses Beet It Sport to support her training and race performance.
How Did You Get Involved in Ultra-Running?
I have been running since school and gradually increased my race distances, starting with 800m events before progressing to multi-day ultras. My first ultra-marathon was the Matterhorn Ultraks 46km in Switzerland.
What Advice Would You Give to Young Aspiring Ultra-Runners?
Take your time. Many runners try to increase their distance too quickly. Start with a 50km race and build gradually from there. This allows you to discover which distance suits you best. I eventually found that my favorite distances are 50km on the trails and 100km on the road.
Which Ultra-Running Achievement Are You Most Proud Of?
Earning the women's world record for running from Land's End to John O'Groats is my proudest achievement.
Who Inspired You Growing Up?
Seb Coe and Steve Ovett. Their rivalry pushed both athletes to become even better, and I found that incredibly inspiring.
What Are Your Future Goals in Ultra-Running?
My biggest goals are to win the Comrades Marathon and break the British 100km record.
Can You Tell Us About Strength, Conditioning and Yoga for Runners?
I created Strength, Conditioning and Yoga (SCY) for Runners to help runners become stronger, faster, and more resilient while reducing injuries through practical, manageable sessions.
Strength training can feel intimidating, and many runners avoid yoga because they think they are not flexible enough. I understand how runners move because I am one myself, so I designed sessions specifically for runners that remove the guesswork and focus on what athletes truly need.
What's Something Most People Don't Know About You?
I used to run a cake-making business!
How Do You Stay Mentally Focused During Tough Ultra-Endurance Events?
I always set A, B, and C goals before every race. If things don't go exactly as planned, I can shift my focus instead of feeling like my race is over. Ultra-running is all about solving problems as they happen, and sometimes that means adjusting your goals along the way.
Where Did You First Hear About Beet It Sport?
I recently started working with a sports nutritionist, who introduced me to Beet It Sport and explained the performance benefits it offers for ultra-running. I'm excited to include it in my training and experience the results.
Why Do You Use Beet It Sport?
I use Beet It Sport to prepare for two of my biggest races each year: Two Oceans in April and Comrades in June. I include it during my toughest training sessions and in the days leading up to each race to support my performance.
Fuel Your Next Ultra with Beet It Sport
Inspired by Carla Molinaro's approach to training and racing? Support your endurance with the Beet It Sport Nitrate 400 Shot, which delivers a clinically tested 400mg dose of dietary nitrate to help improve endurance, stamina, and performance.
