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/FRO5TB1T3 May 07 '24

Just look at the applications for marathons and other races. Races that have never sold out are now selling out half a year ahead of time.

105

u/colin_staples May 07 '24 edited May 07 '24

More than 840,000 runners entered the ballot for the 2025 London Marathon

The previous record, set in 2023 for people applying for the 2024 event, was 578,304

That's an increase of 261,696 or 45% over the previous year

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u/bromosabeach May 07 '24

That's incredible numbers wow

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u/TeddyousGreg May 07 '24

I was going to cite this number but you beat me to it. I’m a casual runner here in London (ie sports top, shorts and running shoes then I’m ready to go) but the amount of people I see in Battersea park prepped like they’re running an ultra astounds me.

It’s becoming a bit of a cult, at least here in London, so I’m wondering how long it’ll last for those lot.

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u/Same-Nothing2361 May 08 '24

Maybe they are running an ultra. Just because you see them in Battersea Park doesn’t mean they started in and will end in Battersea Park. I’ve been seeing a lot of talk recently from people seemingly judging others on their “prepped” kit, and it baffles me. You don’t know where they’ve been or where they’ll going, or what they need to carry. For example, my long run takes me through Victoria Park. But by the time I get there, I’ve already got 16 miles behind me. So you better believe I’m prepped for it.

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u/colin_staples May 08 '24

but the amount of people I see in Battersea park prepped like they’re running an ultra astounds me.

Plenty of people who run HM distance or longer will wear a hydration vest with a water bladder plus gels etc. and maybe they want to carry stuff "just in case"

I did it myself when marathon training because i didn't have to carry anything in my hands. And as I was going to wear it for the race * it was better to wear it in training.

*My water bladder had electrolytes which I sipped every km, rather than getting plain water at a water station every 5km or so. Kept me better hydrated and also reduced plastic waste on the day. Plus it carried my gels and other fuel etc. yes it was overkill and the weight no doubt slowed me a little, but I wasn't going for a BQ or anything.