Running isn’t an activity typically associated with the non-stop, rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle of a superstar DJ. Elliot Gleave (better known by his stage name, Example) is the exception to the rule. He not only finds the time to run – he also happens to be very good at it. Thanks, in no small part, to inheriting the genes of a 2hrs 26mins marathon runner, Example has a highly commendable half marathon time of 1hr 19mins. He tells MR about winding down, mountain running and a school sports day triumph that changed his life.
What does running mean to you?
It’s a release. Last year I made over 100 flights – sometimes the only way to get over jetlag or to wind down was to go for a run. And, because I spend so much time listening to music in the studio, when I run I like to listen to nothing but the natural surroundings.
How do you fit in running when you’re on tour?
It’s tough. If I’m performing that night, I can’t fit in a run on the same day. My physio worked out that I must bounce up and down at least 1,000 times in a 90-minute show, so I tend to do most of my running when I’m at home. Fortunately, I live by the River Thames and there are some great running routes along the towpath between Putney and Richmond.
You have a seriously rapid half marathon PB of 1hr 19mins 47secs. Have you ever been tempted to try the full marathon?
Thanks! I’ve wanted to do the London Marathon for the last four years, as I know I could do a decent time. I was going to run it a few years ago, actually, but the day before I was performing at Glasgow Arena and the day after I was performing in Cardiff. I was stupidly going to run it anyway, but fortunately my manager stepped in and made me see sense.
Who is your running hero?
My dad. He got me into running and he used to run every day, whatever the weather, until injuries stopped him in his late 50s. He completed the London Marathon in 2hrs 26mins. Incredible!
What was your best ever run?
It would have to be when I ran up and down Mount Warning in New South Wales, Australia. My wife and I did this a few years ago. It’s steep, rocky and full of huge tree roots. The scenery constantly changes from rainforest to sheer cliff faces. At the top, it gets so steep you have to use ropes to climb it. It took us just under two hours. It was thrilling and romantic in equal measure.
What is the most important lesson that running has taught you?
Discipline. Those mornings when you don’t want to get out of bed and go running at 7am in January, but you do it anyway – that same discipline has helped me with a number of aspects in my life.
Tell us a surprising thing about you.
I actually hated running until I was 15. Then I won the 1,500m at school sports day – and I got such a buzz off it that I’ve been hooked ever since.
Finally, describe yourself as a runner in one word.
Competitive
