Story Highlight
– Running popularity surged in 2025 with record participation.
– Over 7 million adults in England run regularly.
– Strava reported a 667% increase in UK registrations.
– Speed obsession raises injury risks among amateur runners.
– Running’s accessibility challenged by high costs of gear.
Full Story
The popularity of running in the UK has surged dramatically, particularly evident in recent events such as the 2025 TCS London Marathon, which witnessed a staggering 56,000 participants and set a new Guinness World Record. According to Sport England’s latest Active Lives survey, over seven million adults in England have embraced running as a regular activity, making it the nation’s second most popular sport. Further reinforcing this trend, Strava reported that the number of running clubs registered on its platform has tripled in just one year.
The initial surge in enthusiasm for running can be traced back to the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. As individuals sought ways to remain active amid lockdowns, many discovered the simplicity and accessibility of running. Apps like Runkeeper, which saw a remarkable 667% increase in UK registrations from April 2019 to 2020, further propelled this trend. While some experts previously speculated that interest in running might wane after restrictions eased, the evidence suggests otherwise. Innovative AI-driven coaching applications such as Runna and Coopah emerged, bringing coaching directly to the user’s fingertips, while new running clubs opened in various urban areas. This trend is coupled with the rise of a new runner aesthetic, shaped by brands like Soar and Satisfy, promoting sleek, modern designs that redefine the traditional image of a runner.
Celebrity involvement has also played a significant role in elevating the sport’s profile. Notably, Harry Styles participated in prominent marathons, running the Tokyo and Berlin marathons under the pseudonym “Sted Sarandos.” His engagement, alongside a growing interest in independent running brands such as Tracksmith and District Vision, has fostered a heightened public interest in running.
Nevertheless, the apparent enthusiasm for running raises some critical concerns regarding the sport’s culture and the pressures it entails. The increasing focus on speed among runners is a notable trend. As a ten-time marathon runner myself, I recall the feelings of euphoria and accomplishment upon finishing my first marathon in 2018. Having followed a rigorous training plan, the memories remain some of the most cherished in my life.
However, the current running climate appears to prioritise speed at the expense of a more holistic approach to the sport. While striving to improve one’s performance can be motivating, it is essential to recognise the potential dangers associated with overtraining and the obsession with personal bests. Laura Fletcher, co-founder of the coaching app OneTrack, highlights the worries surrounding the glorification of speed-focused training regimes. “The obsession with smashing times can be dangerous,” Fletcher cautions, noting that a significant portion of runners sustain injuries annually. Her insights underscore the importance of maintaining a balance between ambition and personal wellbeing.
At OneTrack, rising numbers of injuries and burnout among runners have raised alarms, especially as many lack the guidance of qualified professionals. Fletcher elaborates that while pursuing personal goals is commendable, there exists a profound need for awareness regarding the realities of athletic training, particularly within the amateur community. Many individuals pursuing ambitious running goals, lacking expert support, may inadvertently push themselves into detrimental patterns without realising the hidden costs.
Moreover, the push towards longer distances is generating similar concern. Celebrated figures in the running world, such as William Goodge, who ran the length of Australia, and Jasmin Paris, the first woman to complete the infamous Barkley Marathon, inspire many with their remarkable achievements. Yet, their circumstances differ greatly from those of average runners. Most competing in extreme challenges lack the usual commitments of a nine-to-five job, families, or everyday responsibilities, fostering unrealistic expectations among the general populace.
Marathons, once regarded as niche pursuits, are now commonly featured in social media feeds, contributing to the idea that such feats are expected rather than extraordinary. Yet, Anthony Fletcher, also co-founder of OneTrack, warns against the perils associated with this trend, suggesting that the push to cover greater distances can prove more hazardous to health than the pursuit of speed. He expresses hope that inspiring attempts within the sport will encourage a renewed focus on track racing rather than ultramarathons.
Run clubs have emerged as a cornerstone for many seeking camaraderie and support within the running community. Recent statistics indicate over 1,900 affiliated run clubs in the UK, with Strava reporting a substantial increase in participation. Initially, run clubs provided an inviting atmosphere for individuals of all abilities to engage in weekly activities.
However, some experts, including Paul Phedon, CEO of GUNG HO, argue that run clubs have become overly standardised, sacrificing their original sense of community amidst a competitive market. “Success breeds saturation,” Phedon states, explaining that this newfound corporatisation may detract from the welcoming spirit these clubs once fostered. Instances of exclusion based on performance and aesthetic have also surfaced, with reports of individuals feeling alienated due to not meeting specific, often superficial, criteria.
The assertion that running is an accessible sport is becoming increasingly challenged by the financial realities faced by newcomers. Research indicates that the true cost for a beginner runner can reach approximately £1,029. This includes race entries, travel expenses, and training gear, counteracting the sport’s image as a free and uncomplicated activity. As Phedon points out, rising registration fees for marathons and the increasing cost of essential equipment can serve as barriers to entry, underscoring a disparity within the running community.
The influence of branded running apparel cannot be overstated, as numerous companies have recently entered the market to capitalise on the sport’s growing popularity. While these brands contribute to increased visibility and growth for running, Phedon notes that many fail to genuinely enrich the community aspect that underpins the sport. The emergence of high-end running gear alongside community-oriented products complicates the narrative of inclusivity, suggesting that a deeper examination of these dynamics is necessary for the future well-being of the sport.
In the face of these challenges, many proponents assert that running should be about joy, community, and personal growth rather than competition or consumerism. Efforts to nurture authentic connections, where individuals can enjoy the simple act of running without judgment or pressure, should remain paramount. Ultimately, sustaining the spirit of running—a celebration of movement and connection—must take precedence over performance metrics or brand affiliations. It is this ethos that can ensure running continues to be a wellspring of inspiration and fulfilment for people from all walks of life.
Our Thoughts
The article highlights the risks associated with an intense focus on speed and distance within the running community. Key safety lessons include the importance of balanced training and the risks of overtraining, as well as the need for inclusive practices in run clubs.
To enhance safety, clubs should implement qualified coaching and ensure that sessions accommodate all running abilities, offering back pacers to prevent isolation in unfamiliar areas. Furthermore, maintaining qualified first aiders and comprehensive insurance is essential to comply with UK Health and Safety regulations.
A breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act could be noted if run clubs endanger participants through inadequate safety measures or fail to provide a supportive environment.
Prevention of similar incidents may involve promoting education on injury risks, proper training practices, and the dangers of comparison culture influenced by social media. Establishing a culture that values health and well-being over competitive times can mitigate injury risks and enhance participant enjoyment. Encouraging diverse run styles and accessibility would further support the positive growth of running as a community-focused activity.
