Athletic accessories company Veo Strip has confirmed its support for ultra running champion and US Navy veteran Paul Johnson, as he attempts to set a new official world record for the furthest distance covered on a treadmill in seven consecutive days.
The challenge is currently underway, running from October 19–26, 2025, in Manhattan. Johnson is tackling the grueling mental and physical endurance challenge while aiming to establish a new benchmark that currently stands at 526 miles over seven days, and simultaneously raising US$700,000 for the Bronx Burners Run Club.
Veo Strip is a start-up that created a product to keep sweat from affecting an athlete’s vision during physical activities. Ultra runner Paul Johnson is wearing the accessory throughout the attempt to manage sweat.
“We’re thrilled to continue to support Paul Johnson in this extraordinary challenge,” said Tim Leedom, CEO of Veo Strip.
“His attempt represents exactly the kind of extreme athletic performance that our products were designed to enhance. When an athlete is pushing the limits of human endurance over seven consecutive days, eliminating even the smallest nuisance can be crucial to success.”
Johnson discovered Veo Strip’s sweat management solution during his training regimen. “On my first run wearing Veo Strips, I knew it worked, but didn’t think about it that much.
“It was on my second run when I didn’t wear it that I started getting sweat in my eyes, and that’s when I noticed it. That’s the moment I decided I’d never run another competitive race again without a Veo Strip. Sweat has become one less distraction during my runs. I tell everyone to try it once, then run without it. I joke with people – you don’t notice it until it’s gone.”
The athlete previously took on the challenge of running transcontinentally from Los Angeles to New York City in 2024, completing the 3,000-mile journey in 52 days. Veo Strip was equipment used on that journey, as well.
For the indoor challenge, Johnson faces a unique psychological battleground. “Beyond the physical training, the biggest thing I’m training for is the monotony of running in place.
“I have to learn to turn the brain off at times, play mental games, or stare at a spot on the wall. I love running to country music and will focus on the music and zone out. These are all things to keep my brain occupied.”
Johnson’s use of Veo Strip’s sweat-diverting technology is a key part of managing the physical demands. “Sweating is one of those things you can’t control if you’re well hydrated,” Johnson noted.
“I used to wear a hat, but at some point it becomes saturated during long runs, and then you have to worry about sweat in your eyes and constantly toweling off.”
Johnson’s ambitious goal extends beyond personal achievement, as he seeks to raise funds for the Bronx Burners Run Club, an organisation dedicated to building stronger Bronx communities through sport. The seven-day record attempt is open for public viewing at 137 West 19th Street, Chelsea, New York.
