Runner sets the pace
Callum Elson is a phenomenal athlete whose passion is running. • Photos Submitted
By Tom Victoria
Callum Elson goes the distance every day.
The British 23-year-old runner competes in Europe and the United States. Along with winning races, Callum also has started an online community.
“The Distance Project documents my mission to become an elite professional athlete,” he said. “Through my Instagram account, I am creating a thriving community of runners who are all on their own individual journeys and chasing their own goals.”
Running is the most appealing athletic endeavor for Callum.
“In its purest form, it is the oldest and most simple sport known to man,” he said. “I enjoy the ownership and responsibility that comes with running. Only you can control your continual progression and unlike traditional team sports, your own hard work is what determines results.”
Callum already has the results to show for his hard work. He is a two-time NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) champion, including the 2022 1-mile champion. More recently. Callum finished 9th in the UK Championships in the 1500 meter.
Not all races are meant to be won, however. Callum explained some races are entered to secure a qualifying time for other races.
Many of the events range between 800 and 10,000 meters.
Callum’s training regimen includes the track and gym.
“I run 10 to 12 times per week, mostly easy running with two harder interval sessions,” he said. “In addition, I am in the gym lifting weights twice per week.”
Callum does such exercises as leg squats to build strength in his legs and help prevent injuries.
However, he said there is no universal body weight to attain for running.
“Weight is pretty irrelevant,” Callum said. “If you train and eat well, your body will naturally find its most efficient state. People of all shapes and sizes complete side-by-side in running.”
Callum sets the pace on the track.
Callum formerly played European football (American soccer), but during one off-season, he tried out a different athletic endeavor.
“I recorded some good results and, therefore, knew I was capable of doing better if I was to train year-round,” he said. “I decided I would give running a proper go.”
The sport quickly became a passion, which Callum plans to turn into a career.
“A professional contract is my goal in the future,” he said. “Athletes sign with a brand, Nike, Adidas, etc.," Callum said. “Sometimes, it includes running for a specific team or group, but not always.”
He cited the importance of fitness in general.
“I think fitness is useful for both physical and mental health, but everyone has their own mechanisms,” Callum said. “And it’s not for everyone.”
Callum runs up to a dozen times a week.
In addition to competing, he offers online coaching. Callum also does paid social media work for clients. He attained a bachelor’s degree in History in 2020 and a master’s degree in Business Administration this year.
Callum said there is an essential key to avoid lacking the motivation to run.
“Consistency is the most important factor when training for running,” he said. “So if you break that cycle, then you will suffer as a result.”
He dispensed advice for aspiring runners.
“It’s not always fun," Callum said. “Just don’t expect results right away and expect to plateau.”
He said the worst thing to do is wait.
“Just open the door and do it,” Callum said. “Starting is the hardest part.”
The link to Callum's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.distanceproject/
The link to Callum's website: https://the-distance-project.com/