“Comparison is the Thief of Joy” — Jo Page on Running Freestyle, Finding Flow, and Chasing Adventure

jo page marathon runner

At the 2026 National Running Show, The Feats founder Logan sat down with Jo Page — a self-described “serial marathoner,” Army Reservist, and IT Consultant whose infectious energy and freestyle approach to running have inspired thousands. In this candid interview, Jo shares how she’s run 37 marathons since 2018, why she refuses to follow rigid training plans, and how running has become her ultimate escape and source of joy.

Watch the full interview with Jo Page on YouTube

Meet Jo Page: From Office Miles to Marathon Majors

Jo’s running journey began with a simple goal: avoid outgrowing her work suits. But after moving to Devon and discovering the wild beauty of Dartmoor, running quickly became a lifestyle. Since her first marathon in 2018, Jo has completed 37 marathons — including five of the World Marathon Majors, with Tokyo set to be her sixth.

  • Marathon Count: 37 (as of Feb 2026)
  • Personal Best: 3:14 (as of Feb 2026)
  • Major Milestone: Chasing her 6th World Major Star in Tokyo

By day, Jo juggles life as an IT Consultant and Army Reservist. By night (and most weekends), she’s out on the trails, high-fiving spectators, rescuing sheep, and making memories.


Jo’s “Uncoachable” Philosophy

Forget the 16-week training plans and rigid schedules. Jo’s approach is refreshingly simple: listen to your body, run for fun, and let adventure guide your miles.

  • Freestyle Training: Jo rarely follows a set plan. She chooses her distance and pace based on how she feels, often “freestyling” her routes across Dartmoor.
  • Active Recovery: Hiking, cycling, and “time on feet” are her secret weapons for endurance — not endless speed sessions.
  • Nutrition: A daily protein shake (thanks, Dad!) and home-cooked meals fuel her adventures, but she’s not above a pre-race pizza or cocktail.

The Power of Community & Memories

For Jo, running is about more than medals or PBs. It’s about the people, the stories, and the moments that make every run unique.

  • Parkrun Advocate: Jo believes Parkrun is the best entry point for new runners — “You can’t come last, and the community is unbeatable.”
  • Giving Back: Whether volunteering at races or leading club runs, Jo is passionate about supporting the running community.
  • The Good Morning Challenge: Jo and Logan swap stories about greeting strangers on city runs — scoring points for every “good morning” they receive.

Words of Wisdom: “Comparison is the Thief of Joy”

Jo’s central message is clear: don’t let comparison steal your happiness. Whether you’re a couch-to-5k beginner or chasing marathon PBs, your journey is your own.

  • Run for Memories, Not Metrics: “If you run, you are a runner — no matter the pace.”
  • Listen to Your Body: Rest when you need it, and don’t force the grind.
  • Celebrate Progress: Compare yourself only to where you were yesterday, not to others on Strava or social media.

Watch the Full Interview

Jo’s story is a reminder that running is about joy, adventure, and community — not just finish times. Her energy is contagious, and her advice is a breath of fresh Dartmoor air.

Ready for a dose of inspiration?
👉 Watch the full interview with Jo Page on YouTube

Follow Jo’s adventures:
👉 Instagram: @adventures_with_jp


Want more stories from the running community? Like and subscribe to The Feats on YouTube for future interviews and inspiration.

Written by: Logan Estop-Hall

Mountain man. Ultra-runner. Entrepreneur. Adventure sports do-er. Obsessive reader. Happy husband, proud father and passionate about helping people find health and happiness through sport, with a specific focus on lower limb health.