Why So Many Young People Are Running Marathons

Endurance as a Lifestyle: If it seems like everyone you know is training for a marathon, you’re not imagining things. Originally spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, the boom in running shows no sign of slowing. According to Strava’s Year in Sport data, Gen Z is signing up for races at growing rates, from 5Ks to full marathons. Run club numbers have reached record highs, and the sport of running has quietly become a lifestyle.

What People Are Saying: This growth, of course, has attracted a lot of takes — some positive, many critical. One recent essay in Self framed the trend as anxious 20-somethings trying to outrun uncertainty, using mileage as a coping mechanism in a chaotic world. Others point to more practical factors: running is cheap, flexible, and doesn’t require a gym membership. Critics warn about overtraining, injury, and the pressure to optimize every hobby. 

What to Know: Running works because it’s simple, social, and reliably mood-boosting. You don’t need a marathon (or any formal race) to get the benefits. Consistency matters more than distance and participation medals. If it’s fun and it helps, you’re probably doing it right.