Liverpool Hero Riise Takes on 24-Hour 172km Treadmill Challenge

Over the weekend, former Liverpool star John Arne Riise took on an incredible endurance test: running on a treadmill for 24 hours straight.

The grueling effort saw him cover an astonishing 172 kilometers (106.8 miles), all in support of raising awareness and funds for mental health initiatives.

Riise followed in the footsteps of fellow Norwegian ultrarunner Bjørn Tore Kronen Taranger, who holds the world record for the longest treadmill run in 24 hours (264.52 kilometers / 164.52 miles), set in 2018.

Reflecting on the challenge, Riise admitted, "This was the most physically and mentally demanding thing I have ever experienced." Despite the pain, his efforts helped raise over 250,000 Norwegian Krone (approximately £17,850) for the cause.

Sharing his achievement on Instagram, Riise posted, "This is the moment I completed 24 hours on the treadmill yesterday. I'm proud of what I achieved, especially considering where I was physically and mentally just four months ago. This run was for an important cause—mental health! I finished with 172km, something I never thought I could do. Thanks to everyone who supported and ran alongside me during these tough 24 hours."

A Well-Deserved Celebration

After enduring such a Herculean effort, Riise planned a recovery that many can relate to.

"I'm going home, taking a shower, putting my feet up, ordering the biggest kebab with hot sauce, Pepsi Max, and candy—then I won't move for two days," he shared immediately after finishing.

John Arne Riise’s Remarkable Transformation

During his seven-year tenure at Liverpool, Riise made 348 appearances, secured seven trophies including the 2005 Champions League and became famous for his thunderous left-footed strikes.

One of his most memorable moments came in 2006 when a powerful free-kick attempt led to Alan Smith suffering a broken leg and dislocated ankle while trying to block it.

Since retiring in 2017, after stints at Roma and Fulham, Riise faced the common struggle of maintaining fitness post-career. Over time, his weight increased, and motivation dipped—until an extreme reality TV challenge reignited his discipline.

A Return to Peak Form

Last year, Riise participated in 16 Weeks of Hell, a Norwegian reality show where six celebrities commit to a rigorous four-month fitness transformation. "I want to become a machine again," he told Norwegian media outlet Dagbladet. "Since retiring, I’ve let myself go a bit, so I’m excited to see how far I can push myself."

Mission accomplished.

In December, Riise shared his dramatic transformation on Instagram, posting a side-by-side comparison of his progress. "The picture on the left is from 15 weeks ago," he wrote.

"The one on the right was taken just a few days ago. This journey through 16 Weeks of Hell has truly paid off, and I’m thrilled with the effort I’ve put in to improve my daily life. One week left on the show, but my new lifestyle is here to stay. I have many challenges ahead!"

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