So You Want to Try a Gravel Race? Here’s How to Prepare

Gravel racing has exploded in popularity across the U.S., attracting pros, first-time racers, and weekend adventurers alike. Why? Because it offers something for everyone: the camaraderie of a big road ride, the challenge of mixed surfaces, and the freedom of racing in a traffic-reduced, scenic environment.

Whether you’re eyeing a local 20-mile loop or a 200-mile epic like Unbound Gravel, preparation is key. In this guide, I’ll break down what gravel racing is, what to expect, and how to train, fuel, and equip yourself for your first event.

What Is Gravel Racing?

Gravel races are “mixed surface” events, combining pavement, gravel roads, dirt, and occasionally some singletrack. Courses are typically mass-start, community-driven, and far more relaxed in rules than traditional road or mountain bike races. Distances range from beginner-friendly 15-mile routes to ultra-endurance 100-plus-mile challenges.

No two courses are alike—each event has its own flavor of terrain, elevation, and culture. That unpredictability is part of the appeal.

Why Gravel Racing Is Growing

This new discipline attracts everyone from retired WorldTour pros to first-time racers. Instead of a cutthroat finish-line mentality, the focus is often on camaraderie, community, and the shared adventure. Gravel gives riders the freedom to set their own goals: push for the podium, complete the distance, or just enjoy a big day out.

Where to Find Races

From grassroots events to iconic festivals, gravel racing is everywhere. The Belgian Waffle Ride series and Unbound Gravel are considered the pinnacle, but local one-day or stage events are popping up nationwide. Chances are you won’t have to travel far to find your first race.

What to Expect on Race Day

Categories

Most gravel races feature broad categories—from “open” fields to age-group divisions. Some have pro fields, but generally everyone starts together, which makes for a unique and exciting mass-start atmosphere.

Pace

Intentions are set quickly. Pros and elites push hard early to thin the group. Behind them, packs naturally form by pace and goals. You’ll find everything from high-speed pelotons to steady conversational groups. Choose where you fit and stick to a sustainable rhythm.

Strategy

Your race approach depends on whether you want to “compete” or “complete.” Shorter courses might encourage aggressive tactics, while long endurance courses reward energy rationing. Know the demands of your event, set realistic goals, and adjust your pacing on the fly.

Courses

Gravel courses vary wildly. Utah’s Belgian Waffle Ride covers 130 miles with ~8,000 feet of climbing, while the North Carolina edition is under 100 miles but features 11,000 feet of vertical. Surfaces can range from smooth dirt (road-bike friendly) to chunky, eroded gravel where you’ll crave suspension. No two gravel events feel the same.

Similarities and Differences

Think of gravel as a hybrid: longer than most MTB races, more technical than road races, and with the endurance demand of a Gran Fondo. Durability, not just speed, often decides the day.

How to Train for a Gravel Race

Build Your Aerobic Foundation

Gravel races demand aerobic durability. Whether your course has three massive climbs or 100 punchy rollers, being able to ride at an aerobic, fat-burning pace spares glycogen and helps you last longer. Consistent Zone 2 rides form the backbone of gravel readiness.

Match the Race Demands

Study your target course. If it features long climbs, focus on extending your threshold intervals—progress from 3×10 minutes to 2×20 or even 3×20. If it’s punchy and rolling, emphasize repeatability: VO2 max intervals and short, high-power bursts. Always train to the demands of your “A” race.

Sharpen Your Skills

While gravel may seem less technical than MTB, loose surfaces require handling practice. Work on cornering, weight placement, and riding comfortably over washboard or chunky sections. Confidence on the bike saves both energy and crashes.

Practice Nutrition

Nothing derails a race faster than gut issues or bonking. Practice your race-day fueling strategy in training. Test carb vs fat fueling, hydration mixes, and timing. The best plan is the one you know your body tolerates after long training rides.

Strength Training

Core stability, hip strength, and upper-body conditioning are often overlooked but crucial for long gravel events. Simple exercises like deadlifts, lunges, and planks build resilience for hours of varied terrain.

Equipment for Gravel Racing

Bike Setup

You don’t need a dedicated gravel bike to start, but it helps. A road bike with clearance for wider tires can work on smoother courses. True gravel bikes offer more stable geometry, tire clearance, and comfort for long days.

Tires

Wider tires (36–44 mm) at lower pressures provide comfort, traction, and control. While you might survive on 32 mm, most riders benefit from going wider. Tread choice should match the course: smoother file tread for hardpack, knobs for chunky or muddy events.

Gear Choices

Lower gearing (sub-compact chainrings or wide-range cassettes) helps on steep, loose climbs. Many riders run 1× drivetrains for simplicity, but 2× setups offer tighter gear steps on mixed terrain.

Fuel & Hydration

Most gravel events provide feed stations, but always study the course map to plan your own resupply. Carrying a CamelBak or extra bottles may feel heavy, but it’s far better than running out of fluids. Aim for 60–90 g of carbs per hour in long events, balanced with electrolytes.

Nutrition Tips for Endurance Gravel

• Pre-race: Eat a balanced meal 3–4 hours before (carbs + protein + a little fat).
• During: Stick to familiar fuel—energy gels, bars, or FundAminos™ plus clean carb sources for sustained energy.
• Post-race: Replenish with 20–40 g of protein (try PureClean Protein™) plus carbs within an hour to maximize recovery.

Final Notes: Why Try Gravel?

The gravel scene is expanding rapidly, blending fitness, adventure, and community into a single experience. Whether you’re racing to win or riding to complete, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and a serious test of endurance. Prepare well, set realistic expectations, and you’ll finish your first gravel event with stories, strength, and maybe a new obsession.

About the Author

Carson Beckett is a professional cyclist and certified coach with a degree in Exercise Science from Brevard College. Combining scientific expertise with years of racing experience, he coaches athletes of all levels to build fitness, resilience, and performance on the bike. Contact Carson at carsonjbeckett.com.

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