Jeff Galloway, a name synonymous with running innovation and accessibility, died on February 25, 2026, at the age of 80 in Pensacola, Florida, after complications from a hemorrhagic stroke. His passing marks the end of a remarkable era in the world of distance running, but his legacy—built on making running possible for millions—remains as vital as ever.
Born John F. “Jeff” Galloway on July 12, 1945, in Raleigh, North Carolina, he rose from modest beginnings to become not just an Olympian, but a beloved coach, author, and pioneer. According to The Associated Press, Galloway was a member of the 1972 U.S. Olympic team, competing in the 10,000 meters—a feat that cemented his status as a distance running authority and set the stage for his lifelong mission: to bring the joy of running to everyone, not just the elite.
Galloway’s journey into running innovation began in earnest in 1974, just two years after his Olympic appearance. At the time, he was teaching a running class at Florida State University, hoping to drum up interest for his new running store, Phidippides. Little did he know, this would be the birthplace of a training revolution. "None had done any running for at least five years. So we started walking with a few one-minute jogs," he explained on his website. He carefully adjusted the frequency of walk breaks so that no one was huffing and puffing, even at the end. "Walk breaks kept the groups together. Everyone passed the final exam: finishing either a 5K or a 10K with smiles on their faces."
This simple yet profound approach became the Run-Walk-Run method, a training philosophy that would transform running for beginners, recreational joggers, and even seasoned marathoners. The core idea? Incorporate short walking intervals into runs to reduce injury risk, conserve energy, and, perhaps most importantly, keep confidence high. As Galloway put it, "I’ve been using them ever since, continuing to fine-tune the ratios of running to walking based upon pace per mile and individual needs."
His own running was a testament to the method’s effectiveness. During the 1980 Houston marathon, Galloway walked through every water station—and still finished with a personal best of 2:16:35. That time, as reported by The New York Times, was faster than his previous run-only marathons, underscoring the power of his approach.
But Galloway’s influence extended far beyond the stopwatch. He was the official training consultant for runDisney, helping runners of all backgrounds prepare for races at Walt Disney Co. resorts. He also operated Galloway Productions, developing programs and events for athletes of every skill level. His advice reached millions through his more than 20 books, including the enduring bestseller Galloway’s Book on Running, and his regular contributions to Runner’s World magazine.
Jim Vance, an elite endurance sports consultant, called Galloway a "pioneer" for making running accessible to the masses. "He removed the barrier to entry, which was mostly mental," Vance told The Associated Press. "Running isn’t supposed to be a suffer-fest. It should be something peaceful, something enjoyable, so people can enjoy running and not dread it."
Indeed, Galloway’s impact was evident in the final days of his life. After his family announced his emergency neurosurgery on February 20, 2026, an outpouring of support flooded online spaces. Runners from across the globe posted videos and messages, sharing stories of how Galloway’s advice had changed their lives. Karen Bock-Losee of Jacksonville, Florida, expressed her gratitude in a heartfelt video: "I never thought I would be a runner. I never thought I’d run a half marathon. I’m 70 years old and I’ve run several since my 60th birthday when I discovered Galloway running. I just want to say thank you."
Others recalled personal encounters that underscored his generosity. Susan Williams remembered seeing Galloway during a half marathon in Murray, Kentucky, in 2011. "You passed me, and my butt was cramping. You turned around and came back. You talked me through it. It was awesome." Such moments, repeated countless times over decades, exemplified Galloway’s commitment to helping others succeed regardless of their pace or experience.
Bobby McGee, a Colorado-based running coach, highlighted just how much Galloway changed the culture of running. "When a group of people in any kind of run—from marathons to fun runs—get together afterwards they talk about their time. Nobody asks them if they ran the whole thing." The stigma of walking during a race, once a source of embarrassment, faded under Galloway’s guidance. Instead, finishing with a smile became the new standard of success.
Galloway’s philosophy was rooted in the belief that running should be safe and enjoyable for everyone. Even after surviving heart failure in 2021, he set his sights on new goals, telling The New York Times in December, "My mission now, at the age of 80-plus, is to show that people can do things that are normally not done, and can do them safely." His optimism and determination were infectious, encouraging runners young and old to push boundaries while listening to their bodies.
His family played an integral role in his life and work. Galloway met his wife, Barbara, at Florida State University, and together they raised two sons. Their shared enthusiasm for running extended to their grandchildren, who often joined in family running activities. As Runner’s World noted, Galloway is survived by his wife, two sons, and six grandchildren—each a testament to the community and legacy he built.
Galloway’s passing leaves a void, but his teachings continue to resonate. From Olympic tracks to neighborhood fun runs, his Run-Walk-Run method, books, and philosophy have inspired generations. As the running world mourns the loss of a true innovator, it also celebrates the countless finish lines crossed thanks to Jeff Galloway’s vision.
His story is a powerful reminder that the joy of movement belongs to everyone—and sometimes, the best way forward is to walk before you run.