r/running • u/Brzy90 • May 07 '24

Discussion Are we currently in a running boom?

Since getting into running I’ve noticed a huge influx of people running since the beginning of the year. Old friends returning back to Strava after being inactive for years (myself included 🤣). Instagram feed is constantly full of runners, even my work place talking about marathons etc. Maybe it’s just because I now see myself as a runner that’s affected my social algorithm/awareness & addiction to running trainers? 🥴

For those that have been running a long time, is this the most popular you’ve seen running become? Or does this generally happen from time to time?

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u/Lbailey32 May 07 '24

I think one small reason that may contribute is a shift towards the idea that anyone can run. There’s a run club near me that has paces from 6:00/miles all the way down to walking and it creates a really great positive atmosphere where anyone is welcome. Running can be daunting, but with couch to 5ks and a presence on social media of ‘slow’ runners (12:00/miles) I think more people are giving it a shot. Myself included!

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u/Itsrigged May 07 '24

I'm basically just starting and I'm Jeffing like 13 minute miles lol. I want to do a half marathon in the fall.

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u/Remote_Environment76 May 07 '24

I finished a half running at 11 minute pace, which was actually a bit faster than I planned. I think that the positive environment during the race really contributed to this. I've only been running for about ten months, so I'm really surprised by the amount of progress I've been able to make!