Runner Chronicles: Jakob Åberg
The Runner Chronicles
Jakob Åberg is a Swedish ultramarathon runner and pro-runner for Satisfy, who is pushing the boundaries of endurance. For someone who says he occasionally enjoys long runs, we see him on many roads. Renowned in the global trail and ultra-running community, he has delivered incredible performances in legendary races like the UTMB.. Logging over 6,500 kilometers annually, this impressive mileage sets him apart from the average runner and reflects his commitment to achieving peak performance and reflects the knowledge he can bring us.
Beyond racing, Jakob often embarks on multi-day adventure runs through Sweden’s wilderness, emphasizing exploration over competition. His ability to endure grueling environments and find joy in every step makes him a perfect runner for our Chronicles. Next to that, he is just a very cool guy. He says the same thing about trail running.
For this edition of Runner Chronicles, we delved into the mindset and lifestyle of Jakob. We wanted to learn more about the principles guiding his running journey, the rules he lives by when it comes to training, and how he stays connected to both body and mind in the most challenging moments. To capture his story, we asked Jakob some questions about his experiences, mindset, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
The result? An inspiring Chronicle that sheds light on the man behind the miles—a Chronicles filled with motivation, wisdom, and practical tips for anyone eager to explore their potential on the trails.
Introduction time.
My name is Jakob Åberg. I am 33 years old, and I'm an ultra runner based in Stockholm, Sweden, where I live with my partner and our dog.
I've always had running and nature close to my heart. I was raised in an active family in the north of Sweden. In winter, we went ice skating, skied both cross-country and alpine, and often visited the mountains. During the summer, I have wonderful memories of us spending time outside. We also had a family routine of going for runs in the forest.
As I got older, I discovered trail running and later ultra running. I thought it was so freaking cool—so cool that I signed up for my first race, and I guess I’ve been hooked ever since.
As a runner and pro ultra runner for Satisfy, I see myself as sort of the least "serious" professional ultra runner in the world—whatever that means. But honestly, I still think I explore a lot when it comes to running, even though a lot of people around me think I have it all under control. Trust me, I don’t.
Completing the UTMB is an incredible achievement that tests a runner’s physical endurance, mental strength, and technical skills over some of the most challenging terrain in the world.
I think most trail and ultra runners around the world dream of running and finishing UTMB. Since I won a UTMB World Series Event in 2023, I earned a spot without having to enter the lottery. So, it was sort of a no-brainer to run it as I had the chance.
The race started well, and I think I had good control over myself for most of it. However, the biggest challenge turned out to be the heat on race day. I should have done more heat training during my preparations, and it ended up getting the better of me. Still, I really wanted to finish the loop, so I focused on taking the race bit by bit. Eventually, I crossed the finish line in Chamonix!
It was a really cool moment, but I was also somewhat dissatisfied with my performance and the struggles I went through in the final hours of the race. Living in Stockholm, which is a pretty flat city, made it especially challenging to prepare for a race with more than 10,000 meters of elevation gain.
How does support impact your running and performance and in what way do you think it is necessary?
Support is essential for big performances—not only during races but, more importantly, during training. I’m fortunate to have a partner and friends who understand the work that needs to be done to finish these kinds of races, and I’m super grateful for that. They get it when I feel the need to say no to a party or a dinner, especially when I’m preparing for a big race.
My partner hates running herself, so she might not be my running coach, but I’d say she’s more like a life coach to me. She tells me when to chill out with running, gives me perspective when I’m stressed about training, or reminds me to take a few days off when needed. It’s incredibly nice to have someone close who can offer a different perspective on things—someone who thinks a bit opposite to your own thoughts and ideas.
What does running bring to you on a mental level?
Running has helped me get to know myself better. It also helps me set limits in my day-to-day life. Starting or ending the day with a run gives me a chance to take a break from work or other "musts." Running helps me prioritize, which I think is super important in our modern lives. It also gives me space to reflect on life, sparking ideas and thoughts I might never have come up with otherwise.
I definitely believe in the runner’s high, but I think it can differ a lot from person to person. For me, it’s a euphoric, almost meditative state where I focus on just one thing—putting one foot in front of the other. It gives me mental clarity, joy, connectedness, and leaves me calm and collected.
How do you stay motivated in times when the weather is cold and dark, especially during these winter months?
Take the moment to try out some different things, I would say, and have fun with it. Even if running doesn’t feel super motivating, maybe it’s a good opportunity to try something else? Skating? Swimming? Dancing? Cycling? Personally, I like to re-explore the trails and nature I have around me during the winter months. Seing them covered in snow, or mud makes them being perceived differently. I also try to enjoy the treadmill workouts, it is different but can be made fun in creative ways. Try doing different work-outs, different elevations, and stuff that maybe is harder when you're outside. Try to mix it up I would say!
Tell us about your favorite trail run of 2024.
I think my best race and run 2024 was a race in the north of Sweden called High Coast Ultra. It is a 130 km race going through a natural reserve pretty close to where I grew up. It is a magical place, and the night was amazing (we started at 22:00 and then you run through the night). It is the only race of 2024 where I felt like everything came together nicely and I had a really good performance. I led from the get-go and managed to stay on top of my body, and through the tough technical terrain that the race is going through. I finished first and was greeted by my grandparents and older sister at the finish line. Afterwards, we had lunch and Swedish fika. It was such a super nice night and day!
What has running changed for you as a person?
I think there are a lot of lessons to learn from running, but generally, not taking things for granted and enjoying the moment. I think it is so easy to dream about the future and the things that will happen, but for me, running helps ground me and focus on the here and now more.
For me, running has been a transformative journey in many ways. It’s not just about moving forward physically but also growing emotionally and mentally. Running has also taught me resilience. It’s shown me that I’m capable of much more than I often believe, both physically and mentally. It’s also given me clarity and a sense of calm, even during chaotic times. I’ve become more patient, disciplined, and comfortable with discomfort, both on and off the trails.
I’ve gained confidence, a stronger connection to nature, and an incredible community of like-minded people. Running has also given me a deep appreciation for my body and what it can achieve. It has brought me to some of the most beautiful places, introduced me to people who inspire me daily, and turned what used to feel like punishment into a source of joy.
Lastly, what are your three most useful running essentials every runner needs and any tips for the runners starting to trail run?
A Strong Mindset
The ability to embrace discomfort, stay patient, and adapt to challenges is essential, especially on trails where conditions can change quickly. Learn to focus on small goals like getting to the next aid station or the next tree.
Some things you like to do outside of running as well
Running is fun and important on so many levels. But life is so much more as well. Don't take running too seriously!
Something nice to eat to look forward to after your run
Remember to give yourself a nice treat after a hard workout or a long run, it is super important.
If you're starting to trail run I think you should just try to have fun with it. Explore some new places, run with like-minded people, and sign up for your first race if you haven't already!
