Are you getting psyched up for your next race? If so, you might want to watch a few inspirational running movies to get in the mood! These films are all about runners who achieve amazing things, and they will definitely motivate you to push yourself harder. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner, these movies will make you want to lace up your sneakers and hit the pavement. So what are you waiting for? Check out our list of 11 inspirational running movies below!
McFarland USA [2015]
This inspirational sports drama is based on the true story of a high school track coach in a small California town who transforms a team of underprivileged students into champion runners. Despite the odds stacked against them, the young athletes persevere and ultimately achieve their goal of winning state championships. McFarland USA is an uplifting film that will leave you feeling inspired and motivated.
Saint Ralph [2004]
Saint Ralph is a 2004 Canadian comedy-drama film directed by Michael McGowan. The film stars Adam Butcher as Ralph Walker, a 14-year-old Catholic schoolboy who, in 1954, sets out to win the Boston Marathon. Ralph is an unlikely candidate for the marathon, as he is undersized and unathletic. However, he is determined to win, and with the help of his coach, Father Hibbert ( Campbell Scott), he trains hard for the race. Ralph’s main competition is the reigning champion, Johnny Miles (Shawn Doyle), who is also from Nova Scotia. The film follows Ralph’s training and preparation for the marathon, as well as his relationships with his friends, family, and fellow runners. Saint Ralph is a feel-good film about overcoming the odds and achieving your dreams.
1 Mile To You [2017]
After the death of his best friend, high school runner Kevin (Billy Crudup) finds solace in running. As he trains for the state championship, Kevin meets new friends and falls in love with fellow runner, Beth ( Stefania Owen). However, when Kevin’s dark past starts to catch up with him, he must decide whether to keep running or face his demons. 1 Mile To You is a heartwarming story of love, friendship, and redemption.
Prefotaine [1997]
The film follows the life of Steve Prefontaine, one of the most talented runners in history. Prefontaine was a four-time NCAA All-American and held the American record in seven different distance track events. The film chronicles his early life and his running career, culminating in his tragic death at the age of 24.
The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner [1962]
The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner is a 1962 film directed by Tony Richardson and starring Tom Courtenay. It is an adaptation of the Alan Sillitoe short story of the same name. The film follows the story of Colin Smith (Courtenay), a 19-year-old from a working-class background who is serving a sentence in a Borstal for burgling a bakery. While in Borstal, he is discovered to have a talent for running and is encouraged to train for an upcoming cross-country race against a rival Borstal. As he trains for the race, Colin begins to reflect on his life and the choices that have led him to where he is.
Endurance [1999]
Endurance is a 1999 documentary film directed by Leslie Iwerks. The film chronicles the life of Ethiopian-born long-distance runner Haile Gebrselassie, widely considered to be the greatest distance runner in history. The film follows Haile’s early life in Ethiopia, his rise to prominence on the world stage, and his ultimate goal of winning the Olympic gold medal.
Brittany Runs A Marathon [2019]
Brittany is a 27-year-old woman who lives in New York City. She is overweight and has a drinking problem. Her life is a mess. One day, she decides to change her life and runs a marathon.
I Am Bolt [2016]
I am Bolt is a 2016 documentary about the life and career of Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt. The film chronicles Bolt’s life from his childhood in Jamaica to his record-setting performance at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The film also features interviews with Bolt’s family, friends, and fellow athletes.
4 Minute Mile [2014]
When high school track star Drew Goodwin suddenly finds himself without a coach, he enlists the help of his neighbor, retired Olympic runner Mike McAndrew, to help him train for the big race. Drew is determined to win, but as he starts to push himself harder and harder, he finds that his home life is suffering. His single mother is working two jobs to support the family, and his younger sister is getting into trouble at school. Drew starts to realize that he can’t keep up the training and also be there for his family, but he’s not sure how to make the choice between his dream and his responsibility.
Chariots of Fire [1981]
The film opens with British athletes preparing for the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris. Among them are two runners: Eric Liddell ( Ian Charleson), a devout Christian who runs for the glory of God, and Harold Abrahams (Ben Cross), an English Jew who runs to overcome prejudice. The film chronicles their individual quests to compete in the Olympics, as well as their personal rivalry with each other
Bonus: Forrest Gump [1994]
Forrest Gump is a simple man with a low I.Q. but good intentions. He is running through his life story for anyone who will listen. He talks about growing up in Greenbow, Alabama, meeting his childhood best friend Jenny, being drafted in the Vietnam War, and returning home. Despite his low intelligence, Forrest is able to accomplish great things and change the lives of those around him.
These inspirational running movies will motivate you to lace up your shoes and hit the pavement. Whether you’re training for a race or just looking for some motivation, these films will inspire you to reach your goals. So grab some popcorn and get ready to be inspired!
Did we miss any of your favorite inspirational running movies? Let us know in the comments.
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