5 surprising realities that have changed running forever

Fun fact : In 2023, over 5 million running activities were logged per month on Strava alone. Never before have we run so much... and in so many different ways.

Do you still have in mind the typical image of the solitary runner, sweating silently through empty streets? Forget it. Today, running is younger, more social, more feminine, and more expensive than ever. The rules of the game have changed, and if you haven't noticed yet, you only have to take a stroll through any park, Strava group, or starting line.

This article highlights five major transformations that are redefining what it means to be a runner in 2025. Some will surprise you. Others may make you rethink how (and why) you run.

1. The "Pandemic Runner" exists... and he doesn't run for what you imagine

During the pandemic, running became a way of escape. What few expected was that almost 1 in 3 current runners (28.7%) started during that period . But the real change lies in their motivations.

This new runner profile:

• Run for physical health (72.8%, +18% compared to veterans).

• It is 34% less competitive .

• And he is much more interested in virtual races (+115%).

The conclusion? The new runner isn't looking for a podium finish, but for balance. He runs for well-being, not for medals. And that's transforming the sport from within.

2. The new wave is feminine and Generation Z

Forget the masculine, veteran stereotype. Today, running has new protagonists: young, connected, and consistent women .

• In Spain, female participation in racing has grown by 44% since the pandemic .

• Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) is the group that is most likely to take up running … and at a much younger age.

• According to Strava, it is the generation with the highest proportion of female runners .

Would a Gen Z run if they didn't upload their workout to Strava? Philosophically, no.

This change not only rejuvenates the sport, but makes it more diverse, inclusive, and visible than ever.

3. Goodbye to the myth of the lone runner

Running is no longer just about putting one foot in front of the other. It's about sharing a route, a bib, and a beer.

• On Strava, clubs have grown by 60% .

• Group outings (+10 people) have increased by 18% .

• And communities like Beer Runners or Midnight Runners continue to multiply.

Today, we run to train, yes… but also to belong. Races have transformed into social events, with a festival atmosphere and a tribal spirit. The after-run is almost as important as the time.

4. The new race: Getting a bib

Signing up for a big race today is almost as difficult as finishing it .

• The Valencia Marathon (35,000 race numbers) sells out in days.

• The Barcelona Half Marathon (30,000 participants) is the most crowded half marathon in Spain.

• The Madrid Half Marathon reached a record high of 21,000 entrants.

Buying a bib is a race in itself. Welcome to the golden age of popular running .

This boom has turned racing into mass events, with demand that continues to break records.

5. Running has never been so expensive (and people still pay)

Yes, running is still free … but only if you don't want a bib, t-shirt, or medal.

• In Valencia 2025, prices range from €80 to €180 , depending on the registration period.

• The waiting list costs €200 . Literally.

And that's not all. The economic impact of marathons is now comparable to that of major cultural or sporting events:

• Madrid generates an estimated return of 64.5 million euros .

• Valencia , more than 32 million in tourism spending alone.

Running has become more professional, more expensive, and yet it has never been more in demand .

Conclusion: Running isn't what it used to be (and that's a great thing!)

Running has evolved. Today, it's more diverse: young, feminine, social, digital, and profitable (for everyone, except your wallet).

It's no longer just about logging miles. It's about connecting, sharing, surpassing yourself, and belonging. If you ever thought running was boring or lonely, take another look. What's happening out there is a quiet revolution... but a very, very fast one.