In 2012, James Lawrence completed 30 Ironman triathlons in 11 different countries. But he wasn’t satisfied: “I just didn’t feel like I pushed myself physically or mentally.” That’s when he decided to do 50 Ironmans in 50 days in 50 states. And to make sure he spent time with his kids, he ran a 5K with them every evening during the stretch. (Last night, I told my son I was too worn out to play ping pong.)

+ The New Yorker: The Spiritual Life of the Long-Distance Runner.