Running Clubs Are Replacing Nightclubs
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The Trend: The new happy hour isn’t at the bar. It’s at your local park or gym.
A record-low 54% of U.S. adults say they drink alcohol, while run clubs and group fitness are booming. Strava logged a 59% jump in running club participation globally in 2024 and an 18% increase in runs recorded in groups of 10+. In the same report, a survey found people were four times more likely to want to meet others through a fitness group than at a bar. Meanwhile, HYROX, the functional-fitness race series, counted 325,000 participants across 60 events in 2024 and is expanding its calendar.
The Evolution: Runningman is taking the logical next step to community-centric fitness with a three-day fitness and wellness festival. Now in its third year, the event runs from September 12-14 at Kingston Downs in Rome, Georgia. Think adult summer camp meets music festival with speakers, recovery zones, and shared miles over a weekend.
What to Know: You don’t have to head to Georgia to share the good vibes. Worldwide, parkrun hosts free Saturday 5ks. Or try November Project’s free dawn workouts, Midnight Runners music-fueled group runs, or Daybreaker’s sober dance parties.
