Chasing thrills, defying limits

"Once, I found myself crying while climbing uphill toward the end," Li Zhiyu said. "Honestly, I admire myself for finishing the entire race."

While some may see extreme sports as inviting trouble, enthusiasts find the challenges deeply rewarding.

"Upon crossing the finish line, I felt the pain fade away," Li Zhiyu recalled. "By the time I headed back, it was getting dark, and I felt like a star under the 'spotlight', with everyone cheering me on and exclaiming, 'You did it!'"

Now, she wants to achieve even more. After watching a vlog of a fellow enthusiast completing the 168 km version of an ultra-trail, Li Zhiyu was inspired to try it herself. Her personal best for a 50 km race is 12 hours, while completing 168 km takes nearly a full day, and the grueling 330 km version can take five to six days. Currently, she is focusing on daily training and rehabilitation, referring to this phase as her "depot repair" stage.

"Training for longer distances is like climbing stairs; you must first conquer 5 km and 10 km runs before attempting a 50 km race. Those aiming for the 330 km trail must undergo physical examinations, video interviews, and complete multiple 100 km races first," she explained.

Outdoor enthusiast Li Jiaxi, 28, echoed Li Zhiyu's sentiments, stressing the importance of acquiring sufficient experience and knowledge before pursuing extreme sports.