Meet Andrew Farrall, a UK-based personal trainer, pole fitness coach, and flexibility specialist who has developed a serious love for ultrarunning. What started as a simple way to stay active during lockdown quickly evolved into a journey that’s taken him from 5K runs to some of the toughest endurance races in the UK.
Alongside coaching clients to build strength, mobility, and confidence, Andrew also vlogs his races and training on YouTube, sharing the honest reality of endurance running — the highs, the struggles, and everything in between.
How It Started
Andrew’s running journey began during lockdown, like many runners across the UK.
Initially, running was simply a way to stay active and clear his head. He started with short 5K runs, but it didn’t take long before curiosity pushed him towards bigger challenges.
That curiosity led him to sign up for the Manchester to Liverpool Ultra with GB Ultras, and he decided to vlog the experience.
“That race completely changed things for me,” Andrew explains. “Once I’d done that, I was hooked.”
The Journey
Things escalated quickly.
In less than a year, Andrew went from running 5Ks to marathons and then ultramarathons — a rapid progression he admits was tough on the body.
“I probably wouldn’t recommend jumping up distances that quickly,” he says. “But it taught me a lot.”
Since those early races, Andrew has refined his training approach. Instead of simply chasing mileage, he now focuses on smart training, recovery, strength work, and mobility.
The results speak for themselves — Andrew has now completed nearly 50 marathons and ultramarathons, building a huge amount of endurance experience along the way.
Highlights & Challenges
One of Andrew’s proudest achievements was completing his first 100-mile race.
After attempting the distance twice before successfully finishing one, finally earning that 100-mile buckle was a huge moment.
“It meant everything,” he says. “It completely changed my mindset.”
Another standout race was the Leeds to Liverpool 130-mile Ultra, organised by GB Ultras, where Andrew finished 14th overall — a result that pushed him mentally more than almost any other race.
Like all ultrarunners, though, Andrew says the toughest moments often come when races don’t go to plan.
“Ultras have a way of humbling you,” he explains. “But they also teach you resilience.”
What Running Means to Andrew
For Andrew, running is about community just as much as endurance.
As a coach, he loves helping people discover running — especially those who believe they could never be runners.
“Seeing someone go from saying ‘I’m not a runner’ to signing up for races is amazing,” he says.
He also believes the running world stands out because of its supportive culture.
“The running community is one of the most encouraging groups I’ve ever been part of. There’s real respect for effort, no matter the distance.”
Running has helped build his mindset, discipline, and friendships — and continues to shape both his personal and professional life.
Favourite Events & Clubs
While Andrew finds it hard to pick a single favourite race, he often returns to GB Ultras events, particularly those based around Warrington.
“They’ve got a brilliant local feel and fantastic support,” he says.
For runners looking to build endurance without spending huge amounts, Andrew also recommends events organised by the Long Distance Walkers Association (LDWA), which provide accessible opportunities to test distance and endurance.
Advice for Beginners
Andrew’s advice for anyone starting their running journey is simple: experiment and find what works for you.
Try different types of running — road, trail, races, fun runs — and see what you enjoy most.
He also encourages new runners to connect with others in the community.
“Make friends in the running world. It makes everything easier.”
And most importantly:
“Never let someone tell you something isn’t possible for you. It might take time, but if you stay consistent, you’ll surprise yourself.”
