Name: Hans Vestberg
Age: 59
Hometown: New York City
Occupation: CEO and chairman, Verizon
Time Running: 20-plus years
Reason for Running: Running is my essential training—both physically and mentally. Over many years, running has given me time to reflect and bring the best from myself every day.
I’ve always been an athlete, and from childhood into my mid-20s, I worked to become a professional team handball player, reaching semipro level in Sweden, Brazil, and Chile. Eventually, I chaired the Swedish Handball Federation and founded the Jan Vestberg Handball Academy, named after my father, who was my childhood coach and the greatest leader I have ever known.
Like many hopeful athletes, I had to find another way to make a living. Fortunately, my athletic career helped me get into business and develop leadership skills.
I started running over 20 years ago because it was the best way to do physical exercise on my terms, especially as my career ramped up. There is always somewhere I can run, no matter where my work takes me. I use apps to find trails and I often get asked about my favorite and most memorable place in the world to run. The answer is always Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro. It’s truly a unique running experience. The vibrant atmosphere and diverse community remind me of my time in Latin America and reinforce the importance of embracing different perspectives. Of course, I also love running closer to home in New York and Sweden, each having their own unique sense of place and connection.
I have tracked my training meticulously for decades, documenting every workout in a spreadsheet, and on my Garmin watch. This data-driven approach mirrors how I manage businesses—setting goals, measuring progress, and constantly evolving. Early on, I aimed for consistency, making sure I had some form of physical activity almost daily, although I don’t follow any rigid training plans. That analytical approach definitely carries over into how I approach business challenges.
My week is pretty structured. It takes serious planning to balance leading a company while maintaining a consistent running schedule. I’m very flexible about when running can happen in my day. I just get outside whenever I can, because adaptability is key. Being able to adjust to changing circumstances is a crucial skill, whether you’re leading a team or navigating a tricky trail. The bottom line is, making running a non-negotiable part of my routine keeps me energized, focused, and ready to tackle whatever comes my way, both in business and in life.
I tend to run solo, but if I run with someone, it’s usually with my wife. I also enjoy the energy of larger races, using them as motivation and incorporating playlists timed to my target finish time. Every year I plan a couple of races, usually with New York Road Runners. I’ve always found the energy of shared experiences translates powerfully from sports to business.
The races that I remember most are the 2016 New York Marathon, which my wife and I ran together. It was a once in a lifetime experience, truly amazing. The Brooklyn Half Marathon is another favorite. There’s an incredible sense of community among the thousands of runners, all striving toward a common goal. That shared energy is inspiring. Finally, the Verizon Corporate Classic 5K in Morristown, New Jersey, is more than just a race; it's a chance to connect with colleagues outside the office, building camaraderie, and strengthen our team.
I can’t overstate how essential running is to my well-being. I’m not myself without it. I had a shoulder injury recently that kept me from running for a few days, and I felt it. It really emphasized how important physical and mental release is for me to function at my best, both personally and professionally.
I partake in all kinds of sports—skiing, cycling, golfing, and weightlifting. However, running offers a unique combination of physical challenge, mental clarity, and crucial ‘me time’ to recharge and strategize. It has become less about pure athletic pursuit and more about a holistic approach to well-being and leadership.
These three tips have made my running journey successful:
1. Consistency
Just like in business, consistent effort is key to long-term success. Even short runs maintain momentum and build a strong foundation.
2. Planning
Scheduling runs like important meetings ensures they happen. It sounds simple, but this kind of intentional planning is how you build discipline and actually achieve your goals.
3. Exploration and variety
Exploring new routes and incorporating different types of training keeps the experience engaging. It’s like taking on new challenges in your career—it makes things interesting and helps you avoid plateaus.
Hans’ Must-Have Gear
→ OpenRun Pro by Shokz: These are great wireless headphones that stay in place.
→ Garmin Watch: I love this watch because it captures all my necessary data.
→ SPIbelt Running Belt: This keeps my phone from jumping around.
Emily Shiffer has worked as a writer for over 10 years, covering everything from health and wellness to entertainment and celebrities. She previously was on staff at SUCCESS, Men's Health, and Prevention magazines. Her freelance writing has been featured in Women's Health, Runner's World, PEOPLE, and more. Emily is a graduate of Northwestern University, where she majored in magazine journalism at the Medill School of Journalism and minored in musicology. Currently residing in Charleston, South Carolina, Emily enjoys instructing barre, surfing, and long walks on the beach with her miniature Dachshund, Gertrude.
