Richard Parks A new generation is reshaping the sport of running. Across cities, parks, and digital platforms, Gen Z is breathing fresh life into the sport—making it more social, inclusive, and connected than ever before. More than just exercise, running has become a lifestyle, especially for young women who are driving what many now call the third great running boom.
This trend is not just a passing fad. The number of people interested in major running events is growing fast. For the 2026 London Marathon, over 1.1 million people entered the ballot. That’s almost twice as many as just two years ago. The gender split is now almost even, and more than a third of UK entrants are between the ages of 18 and 29. London Marathon director Hugh Brasher described it as an “organic explosion” that no one expected.
In the past, running was mostly seen as a serious sport led by white men wearing basic gear. That image is fading. Today’s running scene includes people of all backgrounds, sizes, and identities. And it looks very different.
Modern running is about more than pace and performance. It’s about how it feels, how it looks, and how it brings people together. Popular sportswear brands like Hoka and Lululemon have helped make running stylish. Their products focus on comfort and slow progress—two values that appeal to Gen Z.
Social media has also played a big role. Today’s young runners don’t look up to Olympic athletes. Instead, they follow influencers who run for fun, for community, and for their mental health. These online voices often promote running as a tool to feel better, not to be the best.
In 2024 alone, Sport England reported that the number of runners rose by 349,000 compared to the year before. Most of that growth came from women. Experts say this shift reflects Gen Z’s focus on self-care, emotional well-being, and moving away from high-pressure fitness culture.
While the COVID-19 pandemic didn’t start the running wave, it helped it grow. As people moved away from school and office routines, they searched for new ways to connect. Running became a safe and healthy way to meet others and feel part of something. This generation values community, mental strength, and belonging—and running fits all of those needs.
New running groups have popped up across cities. Some are focused on Black, Asian, or LGBTQ+ communities. Others welcome total beginners. What they all share is a mission to make people feel seen and supported. “We make sure no one feels excluded,” says Amrit Ghatora from Tracksmith, a well-known running brand. “That’s what keeps people coming back.”
Running also helps with mental health. Research shows that it can be just as helpful as medication for some types of depression. That message speaks clearly to Gen Z, a group that is more open than any before about mental struggles.
Experts say this shift isn’t just about fitness—it’s about identity. Nick Pearson, former head of parkrun and now CEO of Forte Management, says running offers more than physical health. It offers purpose, especially in cultural spaces where people often feel left out of traditional sports. He believes there’s a huge opportunity to build lasting change.
Some might ask if this boom will last. But many believe it will. Running is free, easy to start, and open to everyone. You don’t need a gym or special gear. Just shoes and a bit of space. That makes it perfect for Gen Z, who value freedom, flexibility, and fun.
This latest boom may not break world records, but it’s breaking old rules. It’s turning running into a space where more people can belong. With Gen Z in the lead, the future of running looks bright—and inclusive.