Why is everyone running a marathon?

The 2024 New York City Marathon has officially broken the world record for finishers. A total of 55,646 runners from across the globe crossed the line, and it all seemed a long way from the inaugural race in 1970, when just 55 runners completed the course.

So, what explains this boom in marathon participation? And why are so many younger people taking to running? Those of the Gen Z generation accounted for 19% of finishers in New York in 2023 - up from 15% in 2019. To understand this trend, there are a number of factors worth considering.

Running culture has, for many people, replaced late nights out as a social activity. This was a pattern accelerated by the pandemic when running began to boom, while other sporting facilities shut down. It is also a reflection of changing societal attitudes as marathons have become more inclusive.

Gen Z are described as valuing the discipline of an intense marathon training plan, at a time in their lives when things are perhaps more financially and materially uncertain than they were for previous generations.

For many people in their 20s, it has meant a revolution in lifestyle, shedding bad habits such as drinking too much alcohol or smoking and vaping. Running also grants access to a whole new community of kindred spirits at a time when there is a loneliness epidemic, offering an escape for people stuck at home.

If you’re looking to change your lifestyle, contact us at Maximum Mileage Coaching today to get professional marathon running tips from an experienced coach.