Marathon legend Paula Radcliffe has shared some of the surprisingly simple techniques that helped her excel in one of the most demanding sports in the world. Known for her long and illustrious career in long-distance running, Radcliffe offered insight into how she has managed to stay fit and maintain her passion for marathons over the years.
With the recent success of the London Marathon, interest in long-distance running has surged, and thousands are already looking forward to next year’s event. As a three-time winner of both the London and New York Marathons, and former holder of the women’s marathon world record for 16 years, Radcliffe knows exactly what it takes to perform well over 26.2 miles.
She revealed that one of her key mental strategies is simply counting in her head during difficult stretches of a race. According to her, it’s a distraction technique that helps shift focus away from the physical discomfort and onto something manageable. By the time she finishes a round of mental calculations, she often realizes she’s already covered a significant portion of the distance. This technique not only helps pass the time but also provides a sense of control and progress in the midst of exhaustion.
For those new to running or training for a marathon, staying mentally strong is often the toughest part. Keeping your legs moving when your body is screaming to stop is a challenge, no matter your level of experience. Whether it’s a 5km run or an ultra-marathon, pushing through the mental barriers is what sets successful runners apart.
Radcliffe is not alone in using such mental strategies. Fellow runner and amateur marathon enthusiast Harry Judd, a former musician, explained that he also performs mental calculations to keep himself engaged. He breaks down the remaining distance into smaller, more manageable segments. For instance, converting the last few kilometers into laps around a track gives him a more familiar reference point. He even jokes that he doesn’t count the final kilometer because it feels like a bonus.
Both runners emphasized the value of small distractions that keep the mind occupied during long races. These can be as simple as identifying a fellow runner with a bright outfit to use as a marker or interacting with spectators reading their signs, high-fiving children, or soaking in the energy from the crowd. These seemingly minor actions can provide brief moments of relief and motivation when the going gets tough.
Although Radcliffe officially ended her competitive career in 2015 at the London Marathon, she has continued to participate in major races, including the 2025 editions of the Tokyo and Boston marathons. Her enduring presence in the sport is a testament to her love for running and her commitment to promoting healthy living.
Throughout her career, Radcliffe has received numerous accolades. These include titles like BBC Sports Personality of the Year, Laureus World Comeback of the Year, IAAF World Athlete of the Year, and AIMS World Athlete of the Year an honor she earned three times. She has also been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her contributions to athletics.
Radcliffe’s achievements and her practical advice underscore the idea that success in marathon running isn’t just about elite fitness levels. Sometimes, it’s the small, simple mental tricks that make the biggest difference. Her legacy continues to inspire both new and experienced runners to find their own rhythm, one stride at a time
