I couldn’t find a solid list of running docs, so I created one.
I’ve got high school, college, the olympics, deserts, volcanoes and more.
Enjoy!
1) “Fire on the Track: The Steve Prefontaine Story”
There’s only one statue at Nike headquarters.
And it’s not Michael Jordan.
It’s Steve Prefontaine.
“Fire on the Track: The Steve Prefontaine Story” is a tribute to a runner who burned bright and left a lasting impact.
I picked this as the best running documentary because I can’t think of anyone else who loved running more than him.
This doc, directed by Erich Lyttle and narrated by One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest author Ken Kesey, dives deep into Steve Prefontaine’s life, career, and untimely death.
Born in Coos Bay, Oregon, Prefontaine rose from a scrappy high schooler to the face of American distance running in the 1970s.
The doc showcases Prefontaine’s fearless approach to racing. He didn’t just run—he attacked. His mantra: “Somebody may beat me, but they’re going to have to bleed to do it,” drives the film’s narrative.
His aggressive style on the track, particularly his U.S. record in the 5,000 meters, made him a crowd favorite and a sports icon.
What sets this doc apart is its focus on Prefontaine’s off-track battles. He fiercely fought against the amateur athletic system that left athletes broke, advocating for their right to earn a living.
Though his life ended tragically in a car accident at age 24, “Fire on the Track” celebrates how Prefontaine’s legacy shaped both the sport and the iconic rise of Nike.
His rebellious spirit and determination still inspire runners today.
I love this doc so much that I dedicated an entire web page to it with 2 places to watch it: https://dailydoc.com/fire-on-the-track-the-steve-prefontaine-story/
2) The Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young
This race isn’t for the faint-hearted—it’s for those who thrive on the absurd.
The Barkley Marathons is an underground race in Tennessee that only a few people have ever completed.
I love this doc so much that I picked it #2 in my list of “Best Ultra Running Documentaries” (up to 17).
The documentary dives into the origins of this punishing event, created by the eccentric Gary “Lazarus Lake” Cantrell, where runners must endure a brutal 100-mile course within a 60-hour time limit.
The catch? Almost no one finishes.
Directed by Annika Iltis and Timothy James Kane, this 89-minute doc is as much about the people who attempt the race as it is about the course itself.
From the rituals like tearing a page out of books hidden along the course to the steep terrain that would make even seasoned athletes crumble, the race feels more like a psychological challenge than a physical one.
The name of the race is ironic—while it’s officially 100 miles, many believe it’s closer to 130.
One little-known fact is that Gary Cantrell was inspired by a famous prison escape.
After hearing that James Earl Ray only managed to travel 8 miles after escaping from Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, Cantrell thought, “I could do at least 100.” So he built a race to prove it.
Each year, 40 runners show up. Most don’t even finish one lap.
It’s a cult event, and this doc takes you right inside its madness.
I list options to stream “Barkley Marathons” on this page I dedicated to the doc (that’s where I update the links I’m finding to watch it): https://dailydoc.com/the-barkley-marathons-the-race-that-eats-its-young/
3) Just. One. Mile
In the unforgiving hills of Tennessee, only the toughest survive.
“Just. One. Mile.” captures the brutal Mid-State Mile, where 100 athletes battle in an elimination race with no finish line.
The last person standing wins. No medals. No prize money. Just survival.
This doc is the best ultrarunning story I’ve seen (check out my list of best ultra running documentaries) .
“Just. One. Mile.” features runners like Chadd Wright, a former Navy SEAL carrying the weight of personal loss.
Wright’s story alone is gripping. His mentor took his own life, and Chadd runs with that pain fueling him.
You’ll see him push through hell, becoming the last man standing.
Directed by Adair Bush, this 93-minute doc profiles a couple of other runners.
Like Greg Armstrong, last year’s runner-up — he shows up unexpectedly, ready to compete.
There’s also James Ward, who races with his father dying on a ventilator. At one point, he sprints a nine-minute loop just to buy time to say goodbye over the phone, then rejoins the race.
The “Murder Mile” is brutal: 1.1 miles with 340 feet of elevation gain. Each loop must be completed in 20 minutes.
It’s gritty and real. The final showdown between Chadd and Luke Bollschweiler is raw, intense, and perfectly sums up the race: brutal, unforgiving, and emotional.
Check out “Just. One. Mile.” for options on how to watch the doc.
4) Volcanic Sprint
“Volcanic Sprint” takes you on a grueling race up an active volcano.
This doc captures the annual Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, where athletes battle not only the mountain’s steep terrain but also intense heat, altitude, and their own limitations.
The best runners earn more for 5 hours of this race than most Cameroonians earn in 4 years.
The race is 26 miles of pure challenge, and it draws both elite runners and locals. Directed by Steve Dorst, this 55-minute film gives you a firsthand look at what it takes to survive the competition.
What makes it even more gripping is the contrast between the local African athletes, many with limited resources, and the few international competitors.
You’ll feel the sweat, pain, and triumph of these runners as they push through to reach the summit and back.
Watch it for free on Vudu Fandango or rent it on Amazon and Apple. Check here for the latest streaming options: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/volcanic-sprint
5) Hood to Coast
“Hood to Coast” is a wild 197-mile relay race that tests everything.
This doc follows four teams, each with their own story, racing from Oregon’s Mount Hood to the Pacific Ocean.
You’ve got cancer survivors, a 67-year-old woman who literally collapses, a group of newbie runners, and veterans who think they’ve seen it all.
It’s intense. It’s emotional. It’s also fun. Directed by Christoph Baaden, the 102-minute film captures every moment of joy, pain, and exhaustion.
You see runners pushing through the night, overcoming injuries, and fighting just to keep moving.
But it’s more than just a race. It’s about team spirit, resilience, and that moment when you realize you’re capable of more than you thought. These runners? They show us what true grit looks like.
Even if you’ve never run a day in your life, you’ll be hooked. It’s proof that a relay race isn’t just about running—it’s about pushing through life’s toughest miles with a team by your side.
Watch “Hood to Coast” for free on Hoopla and Tubi or rent it on Apple TV. Streaming options are here: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/hood-to-coast
6) Sprint: The World’s Fastest Humans (2024)
I think “Sprint: The World’s Fastest Humans” is the best running documentary on Netflix.
It takes you inside the electrifying world of sprinting, where milliseconds separate champions from the pack.
The docuseries begins with Heir to the Throne, where Noah Lyles faces off against Marcell Jacobs in the Paris Diamond League’s 100m showdown.
Lyles, under intense scrutiny, aims to prove he’s the next big thing in sprinting now that Usain Bolt has retired.
The race is intense, the stakes are high, and you can feel the pressure mounting.
In Queens, Sha’Carri Richardson takes center stage, and you get a glimpse of the fire that drives her. Episode three, Belonging, dives into Lyles’ continued pursuit of respect in a sport that demands nothing less than perfection.
The documentary doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff. In Trials & Tribulations, Shelley-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s journey is shown in all its glory, both on and off the track.
By The Gold Standard, Richardson, Fraser-Pryce, and Shericka Jackson are in a heated battle to dominate, and you’ll be on the edge of your seat watching them fight for victory.
This docuseries isn’t just about fast times; it’s about the mental toughness, sacrifice, and desire to be the fastest in the world.
Watch “Sprint” on Netflix at https://www.netflix.com/title/81685880
7) Skid Row Marathon
Release date: 2017
“Skid Row Marathon” is a powerful story of second chances and running toward redemption.
This documentary follows Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Craig Mitchell as he forms a running club for homeless people living on Skid Row.
His mission?
To help them reclaim their lives one mile at a time. The doc tracks a handful of these runners as they train for marathons around the world, transforming their bodies and minds in the process.
Directed by Mark Hayes, the 85-minute film is more than just a sports story. It’s about hope, community, and the relentless pursuit of a better life. Mitchell’s deep compassion shines through, and the bonds he builds with the runners are heartfelt and genuine.
You see the struggles these individuals face—addiction, trauma, and poverty—but also their resilience.
“Skid Row Marathon” isn’t just for runners. It’s for anyone who’s ever needed a second chance or found themselves inspired by an unlikely source.
This doc will make you want to lace up your shoes and believe in the power of redemption.
You can watch it for free on Kanopy (with library card) or on Peacock (with subscription) or the other places listed here: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/skid-row-marathon
8) The Fall
I love how a documentary can be on one single moment!
That’s the story of “The Fall” (2016), a collision that changed Olympic history.
This doctells the story of Mary Decker and Zola Budd, two runners who collide during the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
This became one of the most controversial moments in sports.
Directed by Daniel Gordon, the film dives into the build-up to that fateful 3,000-meter race and its aftermath, exploring the intense pressure, media scrutiny, and personal fallout.
Decker was America’s golden girl, while Budd, a South African competing for Britain, was known for running barefoot.
Their paths crossed—literally—in a race that was supposed to crown one as the world’s best. Instead, it ended with Decker on the ground, injured, and Budd vilified by fans.
The doc does more than just recount the race. It gets into the psyches of both athletes, showing how a split-second event haunted them for years.
Interviews with Decker, Budd, and those close to them reveal the emotional scars that lingered long after the finish line.
The Fall is about media pressure, national expectations, and how one mistake can define a career.
And it reminds you that victory and defeat can hinge on a single moment.
The only place I see to watch “The Fall” is on something called Dog Woof (I’ve never tried it). The link (and any new streaming options) are at https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/the-fall-2016
9) The Long Green Line
“The Long Green Line” captures the grit and heart of high school cross-country running.
This 82-minute doc follows legendary coach Joe Newton and his York High School team during their 2005 season as they chase a 25th state championship.
I love me a good coach!
But Newton isn’t just a coach—he’s a force of nature, and this film dives into his relentless drive to mold boys into champions.
Directed by Matthew Arnold, the documentary is about discipline, teamwork, and the life lessons Newton instills in his runners.
From pre-dawn practices to grueling meets, you see what it takes to keep a high school team motivated, especially when they’re juggling personal struggles and academic pressures.
The film introduces you to the athletes—some stars, others just trying to keep up—and how they navigate everything from injuries to team drama.
There’s real tension as two seniors get caught in a scandal, threatening to derail the season.
But what stands out most is Newton’s passion.
At 76 years old, he’s as driven as ever, showing that the journey is about more than the title. It’s about building character, resilience, and camaraderie.
The Long Green Line reminds us that cross-country is more than a race—it’s a way of life.
Watch “The Long Green Line” for free on YouTube by clicking the video embed above.
10) Transcend
“Transcend” is the story of a runner who didn’t just chase victory—he chased change.
This 98-minute doc follows Wesley Korir, a Kenyan marathoner who went from running barefoot as a kid to winning the 2012 Boston Marathon.
But this isn’t just another sports doc. Korir’s journey doesn’t stop at the finish line.
He took his platform and ran for political office in Kenya, using his fame to fight for healthcare and education in his homeland.
Directed by Michael Del Monte, Transcend mixes the highs of competitive racing with the gritty realities of Korir’s life in rural Kenya. The footage? Beautiful.
You see Korir pounding the dirt roads of the Kenyan highlands, training for marathons while also campaigning to improve the lives of his fellow Kenyans.
It’s not just about running fast. It’s about purpose, grit, and what happens when you decide to use your talent to make a real difference.
You’ll leave this doc feeling like there’s more to life than just crossing the finish line.
Korir shows us it’s about what you do afterward.
Watch “Transcend” for free by clicking the YouTube video embed above.
11) Running The 184
“Running The 184” is about pushing your limits—and inspiring others to do the same.
This 95-minute documentary follows three runners—Connie Gardner, Ryan Donnelly, and Anthony Russo—on a 184-mile journey across New Jersey, from its northernmost tip to the southernmost.
Directed by Greg Lassik, the film combines personal stories with interviews from elite ultrarunners and Olympic marathoners like Jeff Galloway, Ally Venti, and Traci Falbo.
The doc explores the mental and physical endurance needed for ultra-running, but it’s about more than just covering miles.
It’s about community, connection, and the ripple effect of one man’s dream to inspire others to get moving.
The runners train hard, face brutal challenges, and in the end, their achievement is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you put your mind (and legs) to something.
You’ll hear firsthand accounts from those who’ve mastered the sport and see how this run became bigger than one man’s challenge—it sparked a movement.
It’s a grea watch for anyone needing motivation to get off the couch and embrace the transformative power of running.
Watch it for free on YouTube by clicking the video embed above.
12) Plan 9 from Syracuse
[Sorry, I couldn’t find a trailer for this doc]
“Plan 9 from Syracuse” is one man’s crazy quest to run his way into Hollywood.
Filmmaker Ryan Dacko, with zero marathon experience, set out to run from Syracuse, New York, to Hollywood, California.
His goal?
To snag a meeting with producer Mark Cuban.
But it wasn’t smooth sailing. Dacko’s 139-day journey was filled with bad weather, crew problems, and a less-than-enthusiastic response from Cuban, who refused to meet him.
The doc captures Dacko’s determination as he pushed forward, becoming the 175th person to cross America on foot.
Directed by Dacko himself, the 99-minute film is equal parts absurd and inspiring. It’s not just about running—it’s about chasing a dream, no matter how unlikely it seems.
Premiering at the B-Movie Film Festival in 2007, “Plan 9 from Syracuse” was hailed by Film Threat as the best documentary of the year and went on to win awards at the 2008 New Haven Underground Film Festival.
It’s proof that sometimes, the wildest ideas make for the best stories.
The only place I see to watch it is to buy the DVD here on eBay: https://www.ebay.com/p/23046046647
I don’t see Plan 9 streaming anywhere but check back at https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/plan-9-from-syracuse
13) Run Free: The True Story of Caballo Blanco
“Run Free: The True Story of Caballo Blanco,” directed by Sterling Noren, chronicles the life of Micah True, aka Caballo Blanco.
Known for his deep connection with the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico, True’s journey from a competitive runner to a cultural ambassador is inspiring.
The documentary opens with the stunning Copper Canyons, home to the Tarahumara, who are famed for their long-distance running abilities.
True founded the Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon to showcase the Tarahumara’s running prowess and support their community.
The film details his efforts to organize the race amidst logistical challenges and his determination to bridge the gap between the Tarahumara and the ultrarunning community.
Intimate interviews reveal True’s struggles with loneliness and the physical demands of his lifestyle. Despite these challenges, his dedication to his mission shines through.
The documentary poignantly covers his tragic death in 2012 during a run in New Mexico.
“Run Free” is a tribute to True’s legacy, celebrating running as a way of life and his impact on the Tarahumara. It’s a compelling watch for those inspired by stories of resilience and community.
Here are some options to watch “Run Free”: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/run-free-the-true-story-of-caballo-blanco
14) Desert Runners
“Desert Runners” (2013) covers the 4 Deserts Race Series.
The doc follows four main participants—David O’Brien, a 56-year-old Irish marketing director; Ricky Paugh, a 33-year-old former American baseball player; Samantha Gash, a 25-year-old Australian actress; and Tremaine Kent, a 40-year-old English ex-military security specialist—as they attempt the “Grand Slam,” tackling all four races in one year.
The series spans the Atacama, Gobi, Sahara, and Antarctica, pushing these runners to their limits. The documentary captures every gritty detail: scorching heat, freezing cold, and relentless terrain.
Director Jennifer Steinman makes you feel the blistering Atacama sun, the harsh Gobi winds, the oppressive Sahara heat, and the frigid Antarctic chill.
In the Gobi Desert, Ricky Paugh and David O’Brien tackle a grueling 62-mile day, the series’ most challenging stretch.
The film doesn’t shy away from the race’s brutal realities—blisters, dehydration, and mental exhaustion.
Tragically, it also documents the collapse and subsequent death of 31-year-old American runner Nick Kruse during the China leg, highlighting the extreme dangers involved.
Watch it on Amazon Prime Video and some other sites. Check out the latest streaming options here:https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/desert-runners
It looks like you can also watch it for free on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs-k88cCZb0
15) Kipchoge: The Last Milestone
Release date: 2021
“Kipchoge: The Last Milestone” gives you a front-row seat to one of the greatest athletic achievements in history.
This documentary follows Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge as he attempts to become the first human to run a marathon in under two hours.
Directed by Jake Scott, the 84-minute film tracks Kipchoge’s preparation for the historic INEOS 1:59 Challenge, a feat that pushes the limits of human endurance.
The doc is about dedication, precision, and the science behind every step.
You see Kipchoge’s rigorous training, the specially designed course, and the team of pacers who help him in his quest.
But what stands out most is Kipchoge’s mindset. His quiet confidence and belief in “no human is limited” drive the narrative.
The documentary captures his unshakable focus, humility, and love for running, making it clear why he’s the greatest marathoner of all time.
Whether you’re a runner or not, Kipchoge: The Last Milestone inspires.
You can rent “Kipchoge” on Amazon, Apple TV and Microsoft. Check here for the latest streaming options: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/kipchoge-the-last-milestone
Coming Soon in 2024 to 2025
I’m super-psyched to watch “26.2 to Life”. It’s about three men sentenced to life (for murder) in San Quentin State Prison. They decide to run a marathon!
I love the trailer!:
Thanks for reading!
-Rob Kelly, Chief Maniac, Daily Doc