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When it comes to consistency, competitiveness, and pure love of the sport, few athletes embody it quite like John Hollister. One of the Fox Cities most prolific 40+ runners, John has been on an impressive tear over the past year, delivering standout performances from the 10K all the way up to the marathon distance. His season was highlighted by a win at the Fox Cities Half Marathon proudly racing in the Run Away Shoes singlet.
But Johns running story doesn't stop at the roads. He recently took on the challenge of crossing the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim, adding an adventurous milestone to an already remarkable year. Now, he's setting his sights even higher as he prepares for his first ultramarathon: the Ice Age 50 Mile this May.
It's safe to say John isn't slowing down anytime soon if anything, he's more fired up than ever.
Scott: How did you first get started in running, and what keeps you motivated today?
John: I always liked running the mile in grade school and middle school, but then soccer took over my life. Around age 30, injuries forced me to quit soccer and take up another hobby; which turned out to be running, of course! My motivation comes from both the joy and fitness I gain during the training process, as well as the sense of accomplishment when I reach my goal at the end.
S: What are some of the recent feats of endurance or races you have taken on?
J: In 2025, I ran the Boston Marathon in April, crossed the Grand Canyon in June, and ran the Chicago Marathon in October.
S: What has been the most memorable milestone or achievement in your athletic career so far?
J: Definitely the Chicago Marathon. I had a great training block, PRed the race, and finished inside the top 1% of all 50,000+ runners, and I did it at age 43!
S: What does a typical training week look like for you?
J: It depends on the goal race, which, in the past few years has been marathoning and now ultramarathoning. I try to spend 2-3 hours per day doing some physical activity. I typically run 6 days and lift weights 2-3 times per week. For marathons I build up to 80-90 miles per week, and for ultras over 100 miles per week. For weights, I do a lot of heavy leg lifts such as squats and deadlifts. It’s important not to ignore your upper body, too.
S: How do you mentally prepare for a major competition or a challenging workout?
J: By building confidence through preparation. Hitting milestones (specific workouts or "test" races) in my training block will give me a good indicator of what paces to run in various workouts and also what I can expect in my goal race. Sometimes, though, you just need to go for broke to find out what you’re capable of.
S: How do you handle setbacks, such as injuries or difficult training blocks?
J: I change my goals and adjust expectations. I think it’s important to always have a challenging, yet realistic goal. If you’re hurt and can’t run, find something else to work toward. When I had a stress fracture I focused on pool workouts. Adding five minutes per day each week, pushing my heart rate, etc. By the time I could run again, I hadn’t lost a step.
S: What specific features do you look for when selecting a new pair of running shoes?
J: I like comfort. To me that means a soft shoe. The type of shoe depends on what I plan to be doing in it. For an everyday trainer, I like something a little heavier. For workout days I like something lighter, and for race day I love super shoes. All that running in those big trainers makes me feel like I’ve got springs on my feet when I strap on my carbon plated shoes.
S: How much of a role does other gear play in your overall performance and comfort?
J: Living in Wisconsin I need clothes for all types of weather. The worst for me is when I’m underdressed on a freezing cold day. Otherwise, I like to race in half tights and my Run Away Shoes singlet! Other than that, I'm not a big "gear" guy. And that's one thing I love about running- there's really no equipment required. All you need is a good pair of running shoes.
S: Are there any particular products that have become "must-haves" in your daily routine?
J: I love my massage gun and spiky ball for plantar fasciitis pain.
S: What advice would you give to someone just starting out in running in the area?
J: Join Strava (basically Facebook for athletes), run races, and do group runs. You will meet so many great people who share your passion and who will inspire and motivate you.
S: How do you stay connected with the local athletic community?
J: By doing the above things!