The pandemic may have made news all through 2020 and 2021 but many people around the world are
challenging it with running.
Running, and all forms of it, are up globally.
Information from fitness devices and numerous apps suggest that running took off in 2020, during the height of the pandemic.
Running and jogging increased by 65% and outdoor running increased by 34%.
There are some other hot trends on the running scene that you will find interesting.
More Runners, Less Cyclists
Statistics show that 5.6% of cyclists switched to running.
There isn’t an iron clad reason for this.
It could be that running can be done outside while cycle spin classes are inside.
The virus and gym closures could have affected that.
More Miles
People are taking in the long-distance runs with users logging around 37.3% more miles in their runs than previously.
This could be that running is a way to get out of the house and ward off diseases like COVID-19 with better lung function.
That is supported by the fact that more people, around 5% more, are running in the middle of the day between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.
This could be because more are working from home and discover that a midday run is a great way to break up their work day.
More Race
It is an interesting fact that people aren’t always running just to run.
Some have racing goals in mind.
Statistics show that race participation from spring to fall increased by 45% since 2020.
The United States tops the world in most race participation with 456,700 runners entering a race at some point during the year.
It is followed by the United Kingdom with 97,254 runners and Germany with 86,032 runners.
Older Women Run
Running isn’t only for the young.
Statistics show that only 29.2% of those participating in some type of running or jogging program are between 18 and 24 years old.
Also, only 9% are men.
Conclusion
One of the best features of running is that you can start it anytime in your life.
It is inexpensive, can adapt to your schedule and requires no special knowledge or equipment.
It can also go a long way to keep you healthier.
