12 Motivational Running Quotes - To Help You Keep Going

Whether you’re training for an ultramarathon or for your first 5k, there are going to be times that all runners feel less than 100% motivated. Perhaps the weather is bad out, maybe you’re feeling tired, or it could just be that there's something interesting on TV!

And that’s why finding some short inspirational running quotes that mean something to you can be so helpful. Put one of these quotes as the background to your phone screen, stick it on the fridge, or print one out and put it on your bedroom wall - when you see the quote, it might just give you that extra push to keep on going with your training plan!

Here are 12 running quotes to inspire beginners and experienced runners alike. 

5 running quotes for beginners

New to running? Get inspired by these amazing running quotes to inspire beginners. 

• “It doesn’t matter how fast or how far you’re going. If you’re putting on your shoes and going out for a run, you are a runner, you are in that club.” - Kara Goucher, US Olympic long-distance runner

Why it’s so inspiring: Kara’s short inspirational running quote shows just how inclusive the sport is. You don’t need to feel you’re not a ‘proper runner’ because you haven’t run a marathon yet - anyone who runs is a runner!

• If you run, you are a runner. It doesn’t matter how fast or how far. It doesn’t matter if today is your first day or if you’ve been running for twenty years. There is no test to pass, no licence to earn, no membership card to get. You just run.” – John Bingham, US marathon runner

Why it’s so inspiring: John’s quote reminds us how great this sport is - anyone who runs is part of the family!

• “However ordinary each of us may seem, we are all in some way special, and can do things that are extraordinary, perhaps until then…even thought impossible.” ― Sir Roger Bannister, British runner who ran the first sub-four-minute mile. 

Why it’s so inspiring: At the beginning of your journey as a runner, you might not feel completely confident. But you’ll soon be amazed with what you’ve achieved!

• “Most runners run not because they want to live longer, but because they want to live life to the fullest. If you’re going to while away the years, it’s far better to live them with clear goals and fully alive than in a fog, and I believe running helps you do that. Exerting yourself to the fullest within your individual limits: that’s the essence of running, and a metaphor for life.” — Haruki Murakami, Japanese author.

Why it’s so inspiring: Murakami’s thoughts on running and life can help you think of the bigger picture when you start running. 

• “The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones” – Confucius, Chinese philosopher. 

Why it’s so inspiring: Take it one small step at a time, and you’ll soon be achieving incredible things!

4 running quotes for marathon runners

Training for a marathon? Read our running quotes for marathon runners to stay inspired. 

• “A sportsman always tries his best and fights until the end.” - Kihachiro Onitsuka, Japanese businessman and founder of ASICS.

Why it’s so inspiring: Kihachiro would repeat this rule of sport and life every day at ASICS, and it’s a great short inspirational running quote. The message is simple: never give up!

• “It doesn't just come overnight - you've got to train for it and believe in yourself; that's the most important thing” - Sir Mo Farah, UK Olympic runner. 

Why it’s so inspiring: Even the greatest, most naturally talented runners in the world know that skill alone won’t get them through. To be successful, you need to train!

• “Athletics is not so much about the legs. It’s about the heart and mind” - Eliud Kipchoge, Kenyan marathon runner and world record holder

Why it’s so inspiring: Eliud is saying that mentality is everything in marathon running - you’ve got to believe in yourself. 

• “Never set limits, go after your dreams, don’t be afraid to push the boundaries. And laugh a lot - it’s good for you!” - Paula Radcliffe, UK marathon runner. 

Why it’s so inspiring: Paula’s brilliant running quote reminds us to enjoy ourselves when running too. 

3 running quotes for morning runners

Feeling a little groggy this morning? Here are some awesome running quotes for morning runners to get you up and out the door. 

• “Tomorrow is my day” - Brigid Kosgei, Kenyan marathon runner and world record holder. 

Why it’s so inspiring: Brigid reportedly used this mantra the night before she broke the marathon world record. So, get up, and get out the door - today is your day!

• “Believe me; the reward is not so great without the struggle.” — Wilma Rudolph, US Sprinter

Why it’s so inspiring: Wilma’s short inspirational running quote is great motivation for any runner who's struggling to get up for an early morning run. Yes, it’s going to be tough, but it will be worth it!

• “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ”Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.” – Muhammad Ali, US boxer. 

Why it’s so inspiring: It might be a drag pulling your running shoes on this morning, but the glory of finishing that next marathon will undoubtedly make it all worth the effort!

Find what motivates you

When you’re running, it’s so important to find ways to stay motivated. For some people, a short inspirational running quote will do it. For others, it’s a brilliant playlist. Maybe it’s treating yourself to a new pair of running shoes, or some comfortable sports clothing. Once you’ve found the thing that inspires you, keep on at it!