How Everyone Became Obsessed With Running

There are people who go for runs, and then there are runners. Going for a run requires a pair of running shoes. Being a runner is a lifestyle, complete with social run clubs, non-alcoholic beer, influencers, gadgets, and even its own social media platform. This summer’s European heat wave has not stopped the runners from venturing out, either in the early morning hours or after dark, and the Strava feeds are full of sunsets and excess sweat. In fact, there are more of these runners today than ever before. The London Marathon released its stats for 2026, and boasted its highest number of entries ever, as well as a significant increase in the number of women trying to get a spot on the start line.