Jonathan Schmid – At home among the mountains
For some, the mountains are an escape from the city into tranquility – a simple day trip. Others find their challenge there. For Jonathan Schmid, the mountain and trail runner, the mountains are first and foremost one thing: home.
Growing up in Adelboden, peaks, hiking trails, and steep ascents have always been part of his daily life. What is a destination for others begins right outside his front door. Lace up your running shoes, start running, and you're already going uphill.
That's exactly what makes mountain and trail running so appealing to Jonathan Schmid.
"Just running straight ahead" would not be for him. Instead of clocking miles on the road, he is drawn upwards. Up to the peaks. Every ascent is a goal. Reach the top, take a breath, enjoy the view, and let the moment sink in before heading back down into the valley.
It is precisely these moments that the mountains give him.
Success doesn't just begin at the starting line
Concentration, perfection and passion - what remains hidden is the work behind every race number.
Jonathan Schmid currently invests around seven to ten hours per week in running training. In addition, there are stabilization and other exercises. Overall, he spends many hours preparing his body for the stresses in the mountains.
The terrain in the mountains is not always easy. The roads are not nicely paved. The body must accept and adapt to these stresses. This can only be achieved with training, kilometre after kilometre.
Every run must be earned
In mountain running, there's no easy shortcut to the top. Those who want to run for the national team, which Schmid was part of this year, must earn their selection through strong performances in competitions. Jonathan Schmid competes in around twelve races per season. He can largely choose which races to run himself – always with the goal of developing further and competing against the competition.
A Race to Remember
If you ask Jonathan Schmid about his most memorable experience, he doesn't have to think long.
The Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc – UTMB for short.
For many trail runners, this race is more than just a competition. It is considered one of the most prestigious trail running events in the world. Only those who have previously qualified with exceptional performances are allowed to start. Schmid was one of the few participants who were permitted to start.
179 kilometers. 9900 meters of elevation gain. 23 hours and 40 minutes on the go.
These figures show what an enormous physical feat is required – but say little about the atmosphere at this race.
"It was like the Tour de France," says Jonathan Schmid. Spectators lined the streets everywhere. They cheered on every runner as if the winner was just passing by. Especially during the night hours, this atmosphere kept giving him new energy. Such moments remain. Not because of the ranking, but because of the people, the landscape, and the feeling of having achieved something that you have worked hard for over a long time.
Recovery is just as important
Those who regularly push their bodies to their limits also know the importance of regeneration.
After intensive competitions, Jonathan Schmid relies on ice baths, easy cycling sessions, and conscious rest days.
After many hours on stony trails, his feet also deserve special attention. No wonder – they carry him over every peak and every kilometre.
That's why Schmid likes to use our Edelweiss Foot Balm. It nourishes tired feet and helps them recover after long training sessions and competitions. For tired muscles, the cooling Marmot Herbal Ointment is also part of his regeneration routine.
Experience nature
What connects Jonathan Schmid and puralpina goes beyond sport. It's the bond with the mountains. The respect for nature and the conviction that often the simplest things have the greatest impact.
As Schmid conquers new peaks step by step, new stories are always emerging. Stories of long ascents, quiet moments above the fog line, and competitions that remain in memory.
We are delighted to accompany Jonathan Schmid on his journey – and are excited to see where the next trails lead him.
Regenerate like Jonathan Schmid?
