An Ambitious Marathon Journey

Richard Whitehead MBE, a two-time Paralympic gold medalist and world record holder, is gearing up to complete an impressive 20 marathons in 2025, culminating with his 100th marathon in New York City.

Overcoming Challenges

At the age of 48, Richard stands as a remarkable testament to endurance and resilience. Born with a double through-knee congenital amputation, he runs using advanced prosthetics, constantly pushing the limits for athletes with disabilities.

Holistic Approach to Wellbeing

Richard has collaborated with Bioglan to develop an audio running guide in the Bioglan Balance Running Series, providing valuable insights into training regimens, recovery techniques, and mental strategies to promote overall wellness.

Staying Healthy on the Road

In an interview with Men’s Fitness, Whitehead emphasized the importance of immune health, especially given his rigorous travel schedule, which includes frequent flights to various locations worldwide. “The big thing for me is immunity. That amount of stress on the body can really hammer your system,” he stated. He relies on supplements from Bioglan to maintain wellness during his extensive marathon engagements.

Adapting Supplementation Strategies

Whitehead approaches supplementation with simplicity and sustainability in mind. He advocates for understanding the nutritional importance of various supplements, using turmeric for its immune-boosting properties as an example. This approach has proven crucial for him, as he noted that neglecting his immune health could significantly affect his performance.

Historical Connection

In March, Richard took part in an event that retraced the historic 1908 Olympic Marathon course, emphasizing that he aims to make his marathon experiences more meaningful. “Running is the most inclusive sport there is. It doesn’t matter if you finish in two hours or seven; you’re part of a community,” he explained.

Evolution of Training Techniques

With age, Whitehead’s training methods have evolved considerably. “It’s all about those marginal gains,” he remarked, reflecting on his extensive experience in different sports. Collaborating with sports scientists has enabled him to optimize every aspect of his training, from nutrition to sleep and strength conditioning.

Recovery: A Priority

Recognizing the importance of recovery, Richard has transformed his routine over the years. He emphasized, “Recovery is now as important as the training itself.” His methods have shifted from intense techniques like cryotherapy to listening to his body and adapting his recovery plans to suit his current needs.

Staying Motivated

Even seasoned athletes face psychological hurdles. Whitehead identifies his motivation as rooted in his purpose: “For me, it’s always been about showing what’s possible.” He believes that his journey can inspire others to embark on their paths, which fuels his determination even during challenging moments.

Broadening Horizons

To Richard, running transcends timing and distances. “For me, it really is about learning through movement,” he noted. His journey has not only focused on breaking records but also on creating connections across varying backgrounds and experiences.

Richard’s Quickfire Insights

• First Marathon: New York City, November 2, 2004.
• Favorite Recovery Hack: Listening to your body for flexibility and consistency.
• Next Big Goal: Completing his 100th marathon 20 years after his first.
• Training Principle: Surround yourself with supportive individuals.

Partnership with Bioglan

Richard Whitehead MBE continues his collaboration with Bioglan to promote wellness and balance in life, showcasing how he manages his busy schedule while remaining dedicated to inspiring others.