If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for new ways to fuel your passion for the sport. Whether it’s reading running blogs, listening to podcasts, or finding great running documentaries, we’re always looking for new inspiration to keep us motivated and excited about hitting the pavement.
There’s just something about seeing real people overcome real challenges that really gets my adrenaline going. And let’s face it, sometimes it’s just nice to take a break from running and sit back with some popcorn to enjoy a good movie.
So, whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just getting started on your running journey, I’m here to share with you some of the best true running stories out there.
From documentaries that celebrate running legends to stories about ordinary people doing extraordinary things, these films will get you pumped up and ready to take on the road ahead. Let’s dive in!
What Makes a Great Running Documentary?
I’ve previously done a list of my favorite running movies. And there is absolutely a difference in what you’ll find on that list vs this list!
A documentary is intended to document real-life events, people, and places in a factual and informative way, whereas a movie is often intended to tell a fictional story that is meant to entertain. So though some on that list are “based on real events”, what’s listed here is a bit more gritty and the actual people involved.
When picking the films for this list, we used a few criteria:
Compelling subject matter
Running can be a solitary and often repetitive activity, so a good running documentary needs to find a way to make the subject matter interesting and engaging. The documentaries mentioned all focus on unique and captivating stories that are inspiring and captivating to watch.
Authenticity
Good running documentaries often capture the essence of what it means to be a runner, showing the physical and mental challenges that come with the sport. The best documentaries capture the real emotions and experiences of the runners, providing an authentic and honest look into the world of running.
Cinematography
While documentaries are meant to be informative, they should also be visually engaging and stimulating. The documentaries about running mentioned use stunning visuals and creative filming techniques to help convey the excitement and intensity of the sport.
Inspirational themes
Running is a sport that can inspire and transform people’s lives, and the best documentaries showcase the transformative power of running and how it can change lives for the better. They motivate viewers to pursue their own running goals and aspirations.
15 Best Running Documentaries
All right, without further ado let’s get you streaming some incredibly motivational running content! These are in no particular order because I find we all have different things that are going to drive us.
But I’ve tried to highlight key points that may help you choose.
#1 The Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young (2014)
“The Barkley Marathons” is a documentary film that chronicles the infamous Barkley Marathons, a grueling ultra-marathon race held annually in Frozen Head State Park in Tennessee. The race is notorious for being one of the most challenging races in the world, with only 15 people ever finishing the full course since its inception in 1986.
The documentary, directed by Annika Iltis and Timothy James Kane, tells the story of the race and its eccentric founder, Gary “Lazarus Lake” Cantrell. It follows a group of runners as they attempt to complete the 100+ mile course, which includes five laps through rough terrain, bushwhacking, steep climbs, and confusing navigation.
The film showcases the runners’ physical and mental struggles as they battle the harsh conditions, all while racing against a strict time limit. It also delves into the fascinating history and mythology surrounding the Barkley Marathons, and the unique personalities who are drawn to the race year after year.
What makes the documentary particularly compelling is the unique and quirky nature of the race itself, as well as the strong sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that exists among the runners. It provides a thrilling and inspiring look into the world of ultra-marathon running, while also celebrating the determination and resilience of the human spirit.
You can watch it on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
#2 The Infinite Race (2020)
Directed by Bernardo Ruiz that explores the cultural and political significance of long-distance running in Mexico, and the Tarahumara, an indigenous community known for their legendary long-distance running abilities.
The film focuses on the Caballo Blanco Ultramarathon, a 50-mile race through the Copper Canyon in Chihuahua, Mexico, which was inspired by the Tarahumara tradition of long-distance running. The race was founded by American ultrarunner Micah True, also known as Caballo Blanco, who lived among the Tarahumara and helped to promote their running culture.
The documentary delves into the social and economic issues faced by the Tarahumara community, including poverty, displacement, and discrimination. It also explores the controversy surrounding the exploitation of Tarahumara runners for commercial gain, as well as the ongoing struggle to protect the Copper Canyon from mining and other forms of environmental destruction.
“The Infinite Race” features interviews with Tarahumara runners, local activists, and international runners who participate in the Caballo Blanco Ultramarathon. The film offers a nuanced and thought-provoking look at the complex issues surrounding the intersection of running, culture, and politics in Mexico.
You can watch “The Infinite Race” on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and iTunes.
#3 I Am Bolt (2016)
“I Am Bolt” is a 2016 documentary film that follows the life and career of Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, widely considered to be the greatest sprinter of all time.
Directed by Benjamin Turner and Gabe Turner, the film offers an intimate portrait of Bolt, showcasing his journey from a young boy growing up in poverty in Jamaica to becoming an Olympic champion and international superstar.
The documentary features a mix of interviews with Bolt, his family, and friends, as well as behind-the-scenes footage from his training sessions, races, and personal life. It provides a unique insight into the athlete’s mindset, his training regime, and his unrelenting pursuit of greatness.
What makes “I Am Bolt” stand out is its ability to capture the charisma and personality of its subject. The film shows Bolt as not only a supremely talented athlete but also a down-to-earth and charismatic personality, loved and adored by fans all over the world. It also highlights the importance of his Jamaican roots and the cultural impact he has had on his home country.
“I Am Bolt” can be streamed on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
#4 The Human Race (2019)
Directed by Lizzy Lee that follows six runners from around the world as they compete in the 2018 Tarahumara ultramarathon in Mexico’s Copper Canyon. The Tarahumara ultramarathon is a 50-mile race that takes place in one of the world’s most remote and rugged locations, and is considered one of the most challenging ultramarathons in existence.
The film focuses on the six runners as they train and prepare for the race, each with their unique motivations for taking on such a daunting challenge. The runners come from vastly different backgrounds and include a blind runner from the United States, a young indigenous woman from Mexico, and a Syrian refugee living in Germany.
What sets “The Human Race” apart is its emphasis on the cultural and social significance of the Tarahumara ultramarathon. The race is deeply rooted in the traditions and beliefs of the indigenous Tarahumara people, who have lived in the Copper Canyon for centuries. The documentary provides a window into this world, exploring the Tarahumara’s way of life and the spiritual connection they have with running.
The film also touches on broader themes such as the power of sport to bring people together across cultural and geographic divides. It is a beautifully shot and emotionally resonant documentary that showcases the transformative power of running and the ways in which it can connect people from all walks of life.
You can watch it on Netflix.
#5 3100:Run and Become (2013)
Exploring the spiritual and philosophical aspects of long-distance running. The film follows four runners from different parts of the world as they prepare to compete in the Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race in New York City.
The Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race is a grueling ultramarathon that takes place over 52 days and requires runners to complete 5,649 laps around a single city block in Queens. The race is unique in that it combines both physical and spiritual endurance, with runners drawing on a range of meditative and spiritual practices to help them endure the long hours of running.
The film follows the four runners as they prepare for the race, highlighting the different approaches and perspectives that each brings to their training. These include Ashprihanal Aalto, a Finnish runner who has won the race several times; Shaun Martin, a Navajo runner from Arizona who draws on his indigenous culture to help him run; Gaolo, a wandering monk from Japan who runs to raise awareness about the environment; and Shamita Achenbach-Koenig, a female champion of the 2017 Sri Chinmoy 10 Day Race.
What makes “3100: Run and Become” so compelling is its exploration of the spiritual dimensions of running. The film draws on a range of cultural and religious traditions, from the Navajo to the Kalahari Bushmen of Africa, to show how running can be a source of connection, meaning, and transcendence. It is a visually stunning and thought-provoking documentary that offers a unique perspective on the transformative power of running.
You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
#6 Unbreakable: The Western States 100 (2011)
“Unbreakable: The Western States 100” is a 2011 documentary film directed by JB Benna that focuses on the Western States Endurance Run, a prestigious and grueling 100-mile trail race in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. The film follows four elite ultrarunners as they compete in the 2010 edition of the race, showcasing their physical and mental challenges throughout the event.
The runners featured in the film are Geoff Roes, Anton Krupicka, Hal Koerner, and Kilian Jornet, all renowned and accomplished ultrarunners in their own right. The documentary highlights their training, preparation, and personal motivations leading up to the race.
As the race unfolds, viewers are taken on a journey through the stunning and rugged landscapes of the Western States Trail. The film captures the intensity and brutality of the race, with its steep climbs, treacherous descents, and extreme heat, all while exploring the psychological and emotional toll it takes on the runners.
“Unbreakable” delves into the personal stories and struggles of each runner, their relationships with the sport, and their motivations for enduring such a physically and mentally demanding race. The film also offers insights into the rich history and legacy of the Western States Endurance Run, which has been challenging athletes since 1974.
You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
#7 Skid Row Marathon (2017)
Skid Row Marathon” is a 2017 documentary film that tells the inspiring story of a group of individuals experiencing homelessness and struggling with addiction in Los Angeles’ Skid Row area. The film follows their journey as they find solace and redemption through the unlikely avenue of long-distance running.
Led by Judge Craig Mitchell, a dedicated running enthusiast and criminal court judge, the group forms the Skid Row Running Club. They come together several times a week to train, pushing themselves to their physical and mental limits while preparing for the ultimate goal: participating in the Los Angeles Marathon.
As the runners train, “Skid Row Marathon” delves into their personal stories, sharing the challenges and hardships they’ve faced in their lives. The film provides a glimpse into the circumstances that led them to homelessness, addiction, and the judicial system. It also highlights their determination to turn their lives around, finding strength, purpose, and community through running.
“Skid Row Marathon” can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
#8 Boston: The Documentary (2018)
“Boston: The Documentary” is a 2018 film directed by Jon Dunham that explores the rich history and significance of the Boston Marathon, one of the world’s most prestigious and iconic road races. The documentary takes viewers on a captivating journey through the marathon’s storied past, showcasing the race’s enduring legacy and its profound impact on the running community.
The film delves into the origins of the Boston Marathon, which dates back to 1897, and examines its evolution over the years. It celebrates the race’s traditions, such as the notorious Heartbreak Hill and the iconic finish line on Boylston Street, while also highlighting the dedication and resilience of the thousands of runners who participate each year.
“Boston: The Documentary” weaves together powerful personal stories of both elite athletes and everyday runners who have been touched by the marathon. Through their experiences, the film captures the spirit of the Boston Marathon, emphasizing the determination, grit, and camaraderie that define the event.
The documentary also pays tribute to the tragic events of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, which shook the running community and the world. It showcases the resilience and unity that emerged in the aftermath of the attack, emphasizing how the marathon became a symbol of strength and hope.
“Boston: The Documentary” can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
#9 Finding Traction (2016)
“Finding Traction” is a 2016 documentary film directed by Jaime Jacobsen that follows the extraordinary journey of ultrarunner Nikki Kimball as she attempts to set a new record on Vermont’s 273-mile Long Trail. The film explores her physical and emotional challenges, highlighting her determination, perseverance, and love for the sport of trail running.
The documentary captures the essence of Kimball’s grueling endeavor, showcasing her training, mental preparation, and the obstacles she faces along the way. It delves into her personal history, revealing her struggles with depression and anxiety, and how running became a powerful tool for her physical and mental well-being.
As Kimball takes on the Long Trail, “Finding Traction” showcases the stunning and demanding terrain she encounters, from rugged mountains to muddy trails. It captures the essence of ultrarunning, conveying the physical and mental fortitude required to tackle such immense distances and challenging conditions.
Beyond Kimball’s personal journey, the film explores broader themes related to gender equality in sports. Kimball’s attempt to break the Long Trail record becomes a platform for discussions on the role of women in ultrarunning and the challenges they face in a predominantly male-dominated sport.
Can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
#10 The Runner: David Horton’s 2,700 Mile Run of the PCT (2015)
“The Runner: David Horton’s 2,700 Mile Run of the PCT” is a 2015 documentary film that chronicles the remarkable journey of renowned ultrarunner David Horton as he attempts to complete an epic feat: running the entire length of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), covering 2,700 miles from Mexico to Canada.
The film captures Horton’s physical and mental challenges as he embarks on this audacious adventure. It showcases the breathtaking landscapes and rugged terrain he encounters along the way, from the scorching deserts of Southern California to the snow-covered peaks of the Sierra Nevada and the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest.
Through intimate interviews and stunning visuals, the documentary delves into Horton’s motivations and personal struggles. It explores his passion for running, his unwavering determination to complete this monumental undertaking, and the sacrifices he makes to pursue his dream.
“The Runner” also highlights the support network that rallies around Horton, including his wife, his crew, and fellow runners who join him for sections of the trail. It emphasizes the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose within the ultrarunning community.
You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
#11 Desert Runners (2013)
“Desert Runners” is a 2013 documentary film directed by Jennifer Steinman that follows a diverse group of amateur runners as they attempt to complete the ultimate endurance challenge: completing four of the most challenging desert ultramarathons in the world in a single year. The races include the Atacama Crossing in Chile, the Gobi March in China, the Sahara Race in Egypt, and the Last Desert in Antarctica.
The film captures the physical and mental trials that the runners face as they push themselves to their limits in these extreme environments. It showcases the breathtaking landscapes they traverse, from scorching deserts to freezing ice-covered terrains, highlighting the sheer magnitude of the challenges they undertake.
“Desert Runners” offers an intimate portrayal of the runners’ motivations, fears, and personal journeys. Through their individual stories, the documentary explores themes of perseverance, determination, and the quest for self-discovery. It delves into the physical and emotional toll of ultramarathons, examining the sacrifices and triumphs that come with pushing beyond one’s perceived limits.
You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
#12 Icarus
“Icarus” is a 2017 documentary film directed by Bryan Fogel that explores the world of sports doping and its impact on athletes and the international sporting community. The film centers around the experiences of the filmmaker, Bryan Fogel, who initially sets out to explore the impact of performance-enhancing drugs on his own amateur cycling career.
Fogel’s investigation leads him to Dr. Grigory Rodchenkov, the former director of Russia’s anti-doping laboratory, who agrees to help him with his doping regimen. However, as the film progresses, it becomes clear that Rodchenkov is at the center of a vast conspiracy to cover up doping among Russian athletes, including the country’s Olympic team.
The film takes a dramatic turn as Rodchenkov becomes a whistleblower, exposing the extent of the Russian doping operation and putting his own life in danger. “Icarus” ultimately becomes a thrilling, real-life spy thriller as Fogel helps Rodchenkov flee to the United States and reveals the shocking details of the Russian doping program.
What sets “Icarus” apart is its exploration of the geopolitical implications of doping and the ways in which it intersects with broader issues such as corruption, power, and national identity. The film offers a damning indictment of the international sporting community’s complicity in the use of performance-enhancing drugs and the ways in which athletes are exploited and marginalized in pursuit of athletic success.
“Icarus” is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that highlights the urgent need for reform in the world of sports doping and the ways in which corruption and abuse of power can undermine the integrity of athletic competition.
#13 Running the Sahara (2007)
“Running the Sahara” is a 2007 documentary film directed by James Moll that follows a team of three long-distance runners as they embark on an unprecedented journey to cross the entire Sahara Desert on foot. The film documents their grueling 4,300-mile journey, capturing the physical challenges they face and the remarkable human spirit that drives them.
The runners featured in the film are Charlie Engle, Ray Zahab, and Kevin Lin, all experienced ultrarunners seeking to push the boundaries of what is considered possible. They embark on this extraordinary adventure to raise awareness about water scarcity in Africa and to inspire others to pursue their own dreams.
“Running the Sahara” takes viewers through the vast and unforgiving landscapes of the Sahara, showcasing the extreme temperatures, shifting sands, and relentless stretches of wilderness. The film provides a visually stunning portrayal of the runners’ physical and mental endurance as they navigate through challenging terrain and confront their own limitations.
The film also sheds light on the diverse cultures and communities they encounter along their route, highlighting the social and environmental issues faced by those living in the desert regions of Africa. It emphasizes the runners’ mission to bring attention to these challenges and the importance of clean water access for communities in need.
You can watch it on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
#14 The Long Green Line (2008)
“The Long Green Line” is a 2008 documentary film directed by Matthew Arnold that follows the incredible journey of the York High School boys’ cross country team in Elmhurst, Illinois. The film captures their pursuit of greatness under the guidance of their legendary coach, Joe Newton, who has led the team to numerous state championships.
The documentary provides an intimate look into the lives of the team members, their dedication to the sport, and the transformative impact Coach Newton has on their lives. It showcases the grueling training sessions, the camaraderie among the team, and the mental and physical challenges they face as they strive for excellence.
Through interviews and footage of races, “The Long Green Line” captures the essence of cross country running and the intensity of high school competition. It highlights the ups and downs, the triumphs and setbacks that the team experiences throughout the season.
Beyond the sport itself, the film explores the mentorship and life lessons imparted by Coach Newton. It delves into his coaching philosophy, his emphasis on discipline, hard work, and character development, and the lasting impact he has on the young athletes.
You can watch it on Youtube, Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
#15 Breaking2 (2017)
“Breaking2” is a 2017 documentary film produced by National Geographic that chronicles the ambitious project by Nike to break the two-hour barrier in the marathon. The film focuses on three elite long-distance runners: Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya, Zersenay Tadese of Eritrea, and Lelisa Desisa of Ethiopia, as they train rigorously and attempt to achieve what was once considered an impossible feat.
The documentary provides an in-depth look into the meticulous planning, scientific research, and cutting-edge technology employed by the Nike team in their quest to push the limits of human endurance. It showcases the development of innovative running gear, including specially designed shoes, apparel, and nutrition strategies, all aimed at optimizing performance and minimizing the time needed to complete the marathon.
As the runners undergo intense physical preparation and mental conditioning, “Breaking2” offers insights into their personal stories, motivations, and the challenges they face. It delves into their training routines, their struggles with injuries, and the unwavering determination that propels them towards their goal.
The film captures the culminating event—a carefully orchestrated marathon held on a racetrack in Monza, Italy—where the runners attempt to break the elusive two-hour mark. With pacing teams, live commentary, and state-of-the-art timing technology, the film takes viewers through the suspenseful race, providing real-time updates on the runners’ progress.
“Breaking2” showcases not only the physical prowess of the athletes but also the mental strength required to maintain an extraordinary pace over such a long distance. It explores the human spirit’s ability to push beyond perceived limitations and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of immense challenges.
Ultimately, “Breaking2” is a captivating and inspirational documentary that captures the spirit of innovation, determination, and human potential. It showcases the extraordinary efforts of the athletes, the cutting-edge technology utilized in the quest for greatness, and the relentless pursuit of breaking barriers in the world of distance running.
Hopefully this list of running documentaries gives you something to work on your motivation and get you going on that next big goal.
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Mike Runs
So far I think I’ve watched just three of these so a good set to queue up on my “to watch” list so thanks!
Elizabeth
I am so happy Barkley made #1! Great list can’t wait to watch these all.