Whether you dream to start running, or lack the motivation to continue training, or whether you are a passionate runner eager to learn more about the sport—this article is for you.
We made a list of 35 documentaries about running that offer a unique lens into the lives of athletes, the struggles they face, and the triumphs they achieve. These films capture the spirit of endurance and delve into the human experience behind every stride.
Make sure to bookmark this article so you don’t miss out on any of the incredible content.
1. Endurance, 1999
Ethiopia has given birth to many talented runners, and among its most prominent figures is Haile Gebrselassie.
Who could have imagined that a boy from a poor, large family would become a two-time Olympic champion, a multiple world champion in distances ranging from 1,500 meters to 10,000 meters, and set 27 world records on distances ranging from 2,000 meters to the marathon?
What is his secret?
In the movie, Haile tells the story of his journey from the very beginning, starting with a difficult childhood that built the foundation for his superhuman endurance. Brief monologues are interspersed with footage of his training and competitions, as well as scenes of the tough rural life in Ethiopia.
The movie combines elements of both documentary and feature film, giving us a chance to see the world that shaped the character of this legendary athlete.
2. Desert Runners, 2013
The documentary follows four amateur runners who are determined to tackle the Marathon des Sables, one of the toughest ultramarathon races in the world and part of the 4 Deserts series.
The event begins every year in Morocco’s Sahara desert and consists of 250 kilometers of scorching sand, vast stretches of silence, and a vanishing horizon.
Participants must push themselves beyond their limits and rediscover themselves along the way. You will witness their struggle, where overcoming physical challenges and inner dialogue are interwoven.
Moreover, these are actual and unscripted shots, featuring real people and no actors or staged scenes. Everything unfolds in real time. If you’re ready to immerse yourself in a different world, then get comfortable and enjoy the ride.
3. Free to Run, 2015
Today, it’s hard to imagine that running could have been a privilege rather than a right. However, back in the 1960s, a real fight broke out between men and women in the USA for the right to run and compete. At that time, running was only available to men.
The documentary is dedicated to this true civil rights battle. The main characters are Fred Lebow, the organizer of the New York City Marathon, Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to run the Boston Marathon, and the unbeatable Steve Prefontaine.
They believed that running was a freedom that belonged to everyone. Have you exercised your right to go for a run yet?
4. I Am Bolt, 2016
If you believe that great runners are born with all the necessary abilities, then this film is a must-watch.
Its creators aimed to demonstrate the immense challenges of being the fastest sprinter on the planet, and how even more difficult it is to repeatedly defend the title despite facing multiple injuries, struggles with motivation, and having a non-standard physique.
This documentary is dedicated to Bolt’s personal battles with both the world and himself. Shot in an amateur style, the film features the simplicity and sincerity of its characters that help audiences better comprehend the personality of this legendary athlete. The entire team of the iconic sprinter participated in the production of this documentary.
5. Karl Meltzer: Made to Be Broken, 2017
Achieving records in ultramarathons is not an easy feat, and Karl Meltzer knows this firsthand.
The US runner has won more 100-mile ultramarathons than any other athlete in this sport. He also holds several records on the most famous American routes, including the challenging Appalachian Trail that spans from Mount Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in Georgia.
The documentary is about his attempt to set a record on this route. The filmmakers managed to show the tremendous difficulty of the journey and the incredible strength of the human spirit. This is a true test of endurance.
6. Breaking 2, 2018
Human capabilities are increasing every year, setting more and more ambitious goals for athletes. But not every goal becomes the object of the world’s attention, as happened with the Nike project.
The main goal of the Breaking 2 project was to run a marathon in less than 2 hours. Three famous athletes—Kenyan Eliud Kipchoge, Ethiopian Lelisa Desisa, and Eritrean Zersenay Tadese—were filmed during their training and preparation for the race.
It is a documentary chronicle of the project’s three-year journey from preparation to finish. It includes interviews with athletes, training sessions, testing, comments from sports researchers, and the legendary run itself.
7. Kipchoge: The Last Milestone, 2021
Great runners may appear to be born to greatness, but behind every achievement lies a human story filled with fears, doubts, struggles, and pain.
This documentary is dedicated to Eliud Kipchoge, one of the legendary runners of the 21st century, and aims to portray him not just as an athlete, but also as an ordinary person. To achieve this, the creators of the film interspersed footage of Eliud’s training with scenes from his daily life.
The film consists of two parts. The first part focuses on Eliud’s training at the Global Sports Communication camp in Kaptagat as he prepares for the Ineos 1:59 Challenge, with the ultimate goal of completing the marathon in under 2 hours.
The second part of the documentary follows the race itself. It is nice to realize that, in many ways, Eliud is just like any of us—a person who achieves success through hard work and discipline, while balancing it with his family life.
If you struggle with discipline, Eliud’s story is sure to inspire you.
8. Run for Your Life, 1988
Running can be not only a favorite hobby but also a lifelong pursuit, and Fred Lebow proved it. He founded the New York City Marathon and was its heart and active participant until the end of his life.
The film’s creators aimed to showcase how Lebow transformed an ordinary park run into a world-class event. The production involved a large number of people, including New York Road Runners staff, city officials, and marathon legends such as Bill Rodgers, Alberto Salazar, Grete Waitz, and Ted Corbitt.
9. Fire on the Track: The Steve Prefontaine Story, 1995
The rebellious icon brought attention to running for millions of people. By the age of 24, he set American records at every distance from 2,000 to 10,000 meters. Each of his performances was a show that stirred the minds of people chanting his name in the stands.
His untimely death in a car accident was a national tragedy. But the memory of him still lives on and has extended far beyond the borders of America.
This film is another gift to fans of the extraordinary young man. His coach, family members, friends, and rivals tell the story of what he was like on the running track and beyond.
10. Ultramarathon Man: 50 Marathons – 50 States – 50 Days, 2006
Have you ever been afraid to register for your first marathon? Or perhaps you are undecided about whether to take up this running challenge? If you look at this guy, your fears will disappear.
Dean Karnazes, the most famous ultramarathon runner in the world, completed 50 ultramarathons in 50 days across 50 states. His epic journey across America inspired thousands of people, who were amazed by his incredible endurance and willpower. He’s like Forrest Gump with hundreds of people running behind him. The difference is, Karnazes is a real person.
This film shows how one person can inspire millions. Are you still uncertain about your intentions? Then join Dean.
Related: How Far Did Forrest Gump Run and Is It Possible To Repeat?
11. Spirit of the Marathon, 2007
This is a story about six different runners who are preparing for the 2005 Chicago Marathon. However, it’s more than just that. The film explores how running is an integral part of the athletes’ lives, the struggles they face, the thoughts they have, and how they motivate themselves.
The filmmakers went beyond just featuring professional athletes like the American running legend Deena Kastor and the elite Kenyan runner Daniel Njenga. They also followed the journeys of ordinary people. At the finish line, people with very different backgrounds come together to experience the incredible euphoria of physical accomplishment.
There is also a sequel to the film, Spirit of the Marathon 2 from 2013, which depicts the journey of amateur runners as they prepare for the Rome Marathon.
12. Running the Sahara, 2007
People push themselves through various challenges to understand their potential. This film portrays one of the most difficult challenges ever taken on by runners.
Charlie Engle, Ray Zahab, and Kevin Lin were the first people to run across the entire Sahara Desert, covering more than 4,300 miles of boundless sand dunes in 111 days.
Narrating this remarkable story is Matt Damon, who along with the runners, recounts their authentic adventure, which entailed fighting off desert storms, encountering Bedouins, and confronting their fears.
13. Marathon Boy, 2010
It’s possible to become a talented marathon runner right from the cradle. Gemma Atwal, a British-Indian TV journalist, created the documentary film Marathon Boy, which tells the story of Budhia Singh, a four-year-old boy from the slums of India who rose to become a true star of his country, despite his tragic fate.
Born into poverty, his mother sold him for 15 dollars, but by chance, he ended up at an orphanage of Biranchi where he was given a golden opportunity.
Biranchi, a judo coach, saw the little boy’s incredible talent for long-distance running and decided to turn him into a national star. Within six months, the running prodigy completed 20 half-marathons, and in a year, he finished 48 full marathons.
Budhia Singh became an idol and a symbol of hope for India, and crowds of people greeted him everywhere he went. But happiness couldn’t last forever, and one day, Singh’s past caught up with him.
14. Transcend, 2015
This documentary tells the story of how running can help change the lives of many people. It revolves around Wesley Korir, one of the fast Kenyan runners, who won the Los Angeles Marathon twice and took second place in the 2011 Chicago Marathon (2:06:15).
After winning the Boston Marathon in 2012, he returned to his native Kenya to compete in a difficult parliamentary race. In the intense fight for a new pedestal, the indomitable spirit of a marathon runner helped Wesley Korir.
The film also includes stories from Kenyan runners and footage of their training.
15. The Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young, 2015
If you’re tired of ordinary races and looking for a real challenge, this documentary film is definitely for you. It follows the Barkley Marathon, one of the toughest and most mysterious races on Earth, and its founder Gary Cantrell, who is known as the devil of the running world.
For years, only a select few were aware of the existence of this race, and only the bravest souls managed to cross the finish line. In the marathon’s 35-year history, as few as 15 daredevils have completed all the challenges. This film unveils the mystery of what happens to those who dare to challenge the running inferno.
16. Finding Traction: The Ultra Marathon Documentary, 2015
What drives women to run ultramarathons? How do they endure the challenges? These are the questions the creator of this film set out to answer.
Nikki Kimball, a famous American long-distance runner, conquers a grueling 273-mile distance through Vermont’s verdant mountains. The unforgiving conditions leave no room for rest, but perhaps the true essence of this endeavor lies in the pursuit of self-overcoming.
17. 15 Hours with Amelia Boone, 2018
A short film about Amelia Boone, one of the best ultramarathoners and obstacle racer in the USA. She won the Spartan Race in 2013 and the Toughest Mudder race in 2012, 2014, and 2015. In 2014, just 8 weeks after undergoing serious knee surgery, Amelia won the WTM title.
Despite being the shortest film on the list, with a duration of only 8 minutes, it is striking in its dramatic and genuine portrayal. The film follows Amelia’s journey through a devastating decline in form after a femur fracture to her eventual return to competition.
18. The Source. Ultra Running Documentary Film Exploring Courtney’s Source of Will, 2019
Is it possible to combine an unhealthy diet with sports? While most people would answer no, Courtney Dauwalter would definitely disagree with them. This elite American ultramarathon runner not only enjoys candy and beer but also manages to outpace her competitors on long distances, regardless of their gender.
Her most notable victories include the course record at the 100-kilometer Javelina Jundred race, the record at the Big’s Backyard Ultra in 2020, and the victory at the Mont Blanc Ultra Trail in 2019.
The creators of the documentary explore Courtney’s lifestyle and aim to find her inexhaustible source of willpower. The film features Courtney at the Tahoe 200 race in California, USA in 2018, where she claimed first place by covering 200 miles faster than anyone else.
19. Behind Courtney Dauwalter & Francois D’haene’s Ultra-Trail Races at Hardrock 100 and UTMB, 2021
One more documentary featuring Courtney Dauwalter, but this time she is joined by another star trail runner, Francois D’Haene from France. He is a professional athlete who specializes in ultra-trail and mountain running and has an impressive record of victories, including the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc and the Grand Raid de la Reunion. He also holds the speed record on UTMB.
D’Haene is recognized as the fastest runner on the GR20 in Corsica. On October 17, 2017, he set a new record on the John Muir Trail in the Sierra Nevada (California), completing it in 2 days, 19 hours, and 26 minutes.
The filmmakers aimed to do more than just feature two of the strongest trail runners worldwide. They tried to answer the question of how far these athletes could push the limits of their endurance.
To explore this, Courtney Dauwalter and Francois D’Haene committed to competing in the Hardrock 100 and the Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc during the summer of 2021, with a six-week gap between the races. The documentary delves into whether this short recovery period was sufficient and where these runners find their tremendous motivation.
20. The Human Race, 2019
This documentary may not be very famous, but it’s really inspiring. It follows the stories of six runners over the age of 50 as they prepare for the most important races of their lives.
It doesn’t matter who you are. Whether you’re a father who dreams of running his first 5K with his autistic son, a trailblazing runner like Katherine Switzer, or an 80-year-old woman who’s running a half marathon—the most important thing is to remember that regardless of your age, lifestyle, or beliefs, anyone can cross the finish line.
If you’re still in doubt about registering for a race, this film will help you make up your mind.
21. Boston: The Documentary, 2017
This documentary is the first full-length film that covers the history of the Boston Marathon, one of the most renowned races in the world. It chronicles the story of how the race, which started with only 15 runners, became a truly historic event.
The film includes a vast collection of video recordings, photographs, and unique memorabilia from the Boston Athletic Association. If you’re considering registering for this marathon, make sure to watch this film.
22. Found on 49: Story of Jim Walmsley, 2017
Have you ever felt like a loser because you got off course and added a couple of extra miles to it? If so, you should definitely watch this film.
It is a story of one of the most notable running failures in the world. In 2016, on his first 100-mile race at the Western States, Jim Walmsley, a celebrated American ultramarathon runner, lost track of the markings and ended up running off course. This mistake resulted in him running an extra 3 miles and losing the lead.
Despite this setback, Walmsley finished the race. He didn’t give up and, three years later, he returned to the same race, not only winning but also setting a new record for the Western States.
23. The Why: Running 100 Miles, 2017
The director of this short documentary film, Billy Yang, aimed to answer the question of why people run ultramarathons. To do so, he interviewed ultramarathon runners and shared his own experience of participating in the Leadville 100 race.
Watching the film may provide a better understanding of why people choose to take on these mind-boggling distances and give you plenty of reasons to join them.
24. Where Dreams Go to Die, 2020
The film directed by Ethan Newberry is another story about the devilish Barkley Marathon. This time it focuses on one of its participants, Canadian ultramarathon runner Gary Robbins. He didn’t give up after his first failure and decided to tackle the daunting course for the second time.
The film shows how Barkley crushes dreams and what people are willing to do for a chance to experience it.
25. Unbreakable: The Western States 100, 2020
This documentary follows the journey of four runners who set a goal of winning The Western States, a 100-mile race. They are:
- Hal Koerner, a two-time defending champion from Ashland, Oregon;
- Geoff Roes, a chef from Juneau, Alaska, a multiple winner in 100-mile races;
- Anton Krupicka, a graduate student from Boulder, Colorado, a winner of every ultramarathon he has entered;
- Kilian Jornet, a two-time UTMB champion from Spain.
To achieve an absolute victory, they aim not only to cross the finish line first but also to break the course record. The race begins at Squaw Valley on Lake Tahoe in California and takes runners through the snowy Sierra Nevada mountains and scorching American River canyons before ending in Auburn, California.
Only one can be the winner.
26. Leadman: The Dave Mackey Story, 2019
This short documentary tells the story of the perseverance and determination of the runner Dave Mackey in completing a series of races in Leadville. In 2015, he had a severe injury during training, which resulted in the amputation of his left leg. Despite this, his passion for running was not diminished.
This is a great film, especially for those searching for inspiration after a serious injury.
27. Racing the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc – UTMB, 2022
This documentary, created by Jeff Pelletier, tells the story of one of the toughest trails in Europe and one of the largest races—the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc.
The race takes place in the Alps on the last weekend of August or the first weekend of September. The route circles Mont Blanc and passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland.
The trail is 166 km long and has a total elevation gain of 9600 m. The race attracts up to 10,000 participants.
This film offers a unique opportunity to witness the event from the inside, experience the amazing atmosphere of a true running celebration, and become part of the UTMB community.
28. Racing America’s Oldest Hiking Trail (Ultra Runner Documentary), 2022
There are as many difficult roads as there are people capable of conquering them. This documentary recounts the story of Nikki Kimball, an American ultra-distance runner who aspired to be the fastest person in the world to conquer America’s oldest hiking trail—the 273-mile Long Trail.
The story became the basis for the book “Finding Traction.” This film portrays everything one must confront when conquering this trail.
29. Terry Fox: The Power of One, 2021
This film, along with the four others listed below, is dedicated to the amazing story of Canadian amputee runner Terry Fox.
He chose running as a way to fight cancer. Despite having osteosarcoma and his right leg amputated above the knee, the determined young man on a prosthetic leg ran 30 miles every day from the Atlantic Ocean in Newfoundland to the Pacific Ocean in British Columbia. He aimed to raise funds for cancer research and to raise awareness of the issue worldwide.
After 143 days, his journey abruptly ended. Fox managed to run over 4,000 miles, and his run will always be remembered as the Marathon of Hope.
The creators of the film combined documentary footage with memories of Fox’s family and friends to create a powerful tribute to his legacy.
There are 4 more films dedicated to Terry:
- Terry Fox Remembered, 2005
- ESPN 30 for 30: Into the Wind, 2010
- Terry Fox: A Dream as Big as Our Country, 2020
- Terry Fox — The Greatest Canadian, 2004
30. Choose Strong, 2022
Sally McRae, a professional ultra-runner, had a completely different 2022 racing season compared to any other year in her career. Rather than focusing on reaching podium finishes, Sally aimed to push her limits and celebrate her mother’s birthday at the same time, by completing five races totaling 507 miles in just 81 days.
The project included a series of unique and challenging runs, such as Leadville 100, Angeles Crest 100, Badwater 135, and Wildstrubel 108k. Throughout all these races, Sally kept her focus on moving forward regardless of the obstacles or circumstances.
This film serves as a great example of how setting a goal can produce incredible motivation that helps us overcome obstacles along the way. Have you set such a goal for yourself yet?
31. The 41st Day, 2019
Do you often find yourself haunted by the fear of failure? Do you dwell on unsuccessful moments in your life and sports? If so, then you’ll be interested in Ryan Hall’s story.
Hall was the fastest American marathon runner, but after placing 10th in the 2008 Olympic marathon with a time of 2:12:33, he suffered a crushing defeat at the 2012 Olympics. Victories started slipping away from him. Hall tried to reinvent himself by rethinking his sporting past and future. He showed that even after suffering tough defeats, one can still emerge as a winner.
32. Runner, 2019
Guor Marial’s story is both inspiring and touching. At the age of 8, he was enslaved during the Sudanese civil war, but he managed to escape. Later, he arrived in the United States and met influential people through running.
The film’s director portrays events from Marial’s childhood and teenage years and follows his path to the Olympics.
Marial made history as the first athlete to represent South Sudan at the Olympics. His country had gained independence, and he became a symbol of its sovereignty. The South Sudanese athlete competed in two Olympics (2012, 2016), running the marathon distance.
33. Skid Row Marathon, 2018
A running club is opened on the notorious Skid Row street in Los Angeles by a judge from the criminal court, who starts teaching drug addicts and criminals how to run marathons. Gradually their lives change for the better. They get a chance to start over, and every step they take is a battle against homelessness and addiction.
This movie tells a true story about friendship, dignity, and hope. If you’re wondering how running can change your life, you’ll find the answer here.
34. Paula Radcliffe: The Marathon and Me. BBC Documentary, 2015
If you’re curious about Paula Radcliffe’s personality, this rare documentary is a must-see. In the film, the legendary athlete shares insights about her career, revealing the secrets behind her triumphs. Watching her, you come to understand that regardless of skin color or beliefs, anyone can become the best at running.
35. The Athlete, 2009
The movie tells about the life of Abebe Bikila, the first African in history to take gold at the Olympic Games. In 1960, Bikila surprised not only his continent but also the whole world by running the marathon barefoot.
His brilliant athletic career was cut short by a car accident. The trauma forever put the athlete in a wheelchair, but did not break his spirit and will to win. In 1969, the marathoner took part in the Stoke Mandeville Games, but this time he tried himself in a completely unexpected discipline.
This list of movies can go on and on. After all, there are so many interesting stories, places, races, marathons, and ultramarathons in the world. And each film is a huge motivation to move forward in search of your own limits.
