Running for 24 hours may sound extreme, but for many, it’s one of the most rewarding
challenges they will ever take on. It’s not just a test of endurance; it’s a journey into the depths of your physical and mental capabilities. Unlike most races, the 24-hour format is less about competing with others and more about competing with yourself, how far can you go in a single day?

The 24-hour race is a challenge I’ve come to love, both as a competitor and as someone who has supported and coached many others on their own journeys. Having represented Great Britain in this incredible discipline, I’ve seen first hand what it takes to succeed, and I’ve had the privilege of helping others achieve their goals, whether that’s breaking records, qualifying for their national teams, or simply discovering their own potential.

Let’s dive into what makes the 24-hour race so compelling, the lessons it offers, and the insights shared by some of the runners I coach who have taken on this extraordinary challenge.

The History of the 24-Hour Race

The origins of the 24-hour race go back to the 19th century and the era of pedestrianism,
where athletes competed in multi-day walking or running events to see who could cover the greatest distance. These spectacles captivated audiences, with competitors often running for prize money and fame. Over time, the 24-hour format emerged as a more focused endurance event, offering runners a controlled environment to test their limits.

Today, 24-hour races are held worldwide and are recognised as one of the purest tests of
endurance. They strip away the complexities of navigation and elevation, leaving behind the
simple question: how far can you go?

Why Run a 24-Hour Race?

The reasons for running a 24-hour race are as varied as the runners themselves. For some, it’s a deeply personal challenge. For others, it’s a way to achieve specific milestones or qualify
for prestigious events. Here are some insights from some of the runners I coach who’ve taken
on this format:

To Test Your Limits

David Nightingale described his motivation: “I wanted to see if I could push my body that far. Could this event break me? How mentally strong was I?” For David, the 24-hour race was about discovering what he was truly capable of, physically and mentally.

Allan Anderson shared a similar perspective: “For me, it was always to see how far I could run. I was intrigued by the format.”

To Find Simplicity in a Complex World

Matt Field, who recently broke the British 24-hour record, shared how he was drawn to the accessibility of the format: “Initially, it was the simplicity that attracted me, no worrying about weather, terrain, or navigation. It’s just a simple running race over one full day.” That simplicity allows runners to focus solely on the task at hand, making it a deeply meditative experience.
Allan initially thought the format would be easier than traditional ultras. “It’s flat, and you can get food and drink when you want,” he explained. “But my first race was so hard, it was a massive shock.”

To Be Part of Something Bigger

One of the most compelling aspects of the 24-hour race is the community. Matt highlighted the camaraderie: “Everyone is so supportive, the runners, the crew, the officials. It’s such a unique and uplifting environment.” For many, this sense of connection is as valuable as the personal achievements.

To Chase Specific Goals

For some runners, a 24-hour race is a stepping stone to bigger goals. Michael Van Der Klei initially entered a 24-hour race as a way to qualify for the Spartathlon. While he underestimated the challenge, he walked away with a Dutch veteran national record for 100 miles. His advice? “Have multiple goals—an A, B, and C goal. That way, if one slips away, you still have something to work toward.”

Lessons Learned from the 24-Hour Format

A 24-hour race is not just about running, it’s about strategy, resilience, and self-discovery.
Here are some key lessons from those who have taken on this challenge:

1. Pacing is Key

One of the most common mistakes is starting too fast. Matt Field emphasised, “You can’t set your PB in the first 16 hours, but you can ruin your race.” The ability to hold back in the early stages is critical to success. A steady, sustainable pace pays off in the final hours, when mental and physical fatigue are at their peak.

2. Fuelling is a Skill You Must Train

Nutrition is one of the biggest challenges in ultra-endurance events. Michael Van Der Klei learned this the hard way: “I got sick after 15 hours because I tried to squeeze in 100g of carbs per hour, but my stomach was only used to 45g.” Practising your fuelling strategy in training, finding out what your body can tolerate and when is essential to avoid issues on race day.

3. Stay in the Moment

The mental side of a 24-hour race cannot be overstated. Michael shared one of his favourite techniques: “I used flashcards with slogans like, ‘Feelings are just feelings,’ or ‘Smile at pain and let it fade for a second.’ These kept me focused and present.” Breaking the race into manageable chunks and staying focused on the mile you’re in can make the experience less overwhelming.

4. Build a Strong Support System

A reliable crew can make or break your race. Matt Field advises, “Get people you trust to crew for you and make their job easy by writing everything down. They’re your lifeline when things get tough.” A good crew will keep you moving, ensure you’re fuelled, and remind you of your reasons for being there when the going gets tough.

5. Stay Out on the Course

Allan Anderson offered a simple but powerful piece of advice: “Stay out as long as you can without stopping for long breaks.” In 24-hour racing, time off the course can be a slippery slope—it becomes harder to get moving again, and the miles slip away.

Reflections from the Finish Line

The sense of accomplishment after completing a 24-hour race is unparalleled. Whether you hit your goal or not, the journey itself is transformative. As David Nightingale put it, “Once I hit 100 miles, I was over the moon. It was such a great feeling, but looking back, I wish I’d kept going to see what I was truly capable of.”
Michael echoed this sentiment, admitting that while his first race was tough, he’s already planning his next. “It’s addictive. You learn so much about yourself and realise you’re capable of more than you ever imagined.”

Why the 24-Hour Race is Worth It

A 24-hour race is about more than miles. It’s about growth, resilience, and connection. It’s about testing your limits, learning what works for you, and discovering that you’re capable of far more than you thought possible.
If you’ve ever wondered how far you could go—physically, mentally, emotionally—this might just be the challenge for you. As Matt Field said, “You can’t get your PB in the first 16 hours, but you can definitely find out what you’re made of in the last eight.”
So, if you’re considering a 24-hour race, my advice is simple: take the leap. The journey will change you in ways you can’t yet imagine.

Ready to Take on the Challenge?

A 24-hour race is as much about preparation as it is about performance. The right training, fuelling, pacing, and mindset can make all the difference, not only in how far you go but in how much you learn about yourself along the way. It’s a journey that’s equal parts challenging and rewarding, and one that every runner approaches in their own unique way.

If you’re thinking about taking on a 24-hour race or pushing your limits in any aspect of your running, having the right guidance can make all the difference. I’ve been fortunate to work with runners at all levels, from those aiming for their first ultra-distance milestones to athletes breaking national records, feel free to get in touch with any questions on how best to take on
your 24 hour challenge.