Are We in a New Running Boom? London Marathon 2025 and the Rise of Running Culture

Running is experiencing a massive resurgence in the UK, with more people lacing up their trainers than ever before. From record-breaking race entries to new social and fitness trends, there are strong signs that we may be in the midst of a modern running boom. But what’s driving this surge, and is it here to stay?

A Record-Breaking London Marathon

The London Marathon has long been a highlight of the global running calendar, but 2025 could mark a historic moment. Organizers are expecting it to be the largest marathon in history, with over 56,000 runners projected to cross the finish line. This follows a huge surge in entries, with more than 840,000 people applying for a spot—an all-time high.

With London continuing to thrive as a global hub for sport and fitness, it’s no surprise that running culture is so strong. The Global Institute of Sport’s London campus places students right in the heart of this energy.

One of the most striking trends is the increase in younger participants. Applications from runners in their 20s have more than doubled compared to previous years, indicating a shift in demographics. In addition, there is a near-equal split between male and female runners, showing that running is becoming more inclusive than ever.

Why Are More People Running?

A combination of factors is fuelling this running revival:

Health and Well-being: More people are recognizing the benefits of running for both physical fitness and mental health. Studies show that regular running can improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and boost overall well-being.

The Social Factor: Running is no longer a solitary activity. Social running groups, Parkrun events, and fitness communities on apps like Strava and TikTok have made it easier than ever for runners to connect and stay motivated.

Post-Pandemic Fitness Shift: Many people turned to running during the COVID-19 lockdowns as a way to stay active. That trend has continued, with more individuals sticking to running as a permanent part of their lifestyle.

Running Trends: What’s Changing?

Alongside traditional road races, several new trends are emerging:

Community Runs & Clubs: Social running groups are booming, particularly among younger runners who see running as a way to meet people and stay active without the pressure of competition.

Trail and Ultramarathons: More runners are taking on long-distance challenges, with ultramarathon participation rising steadily. Trail running has also gained popularity as people look to escape urban environments and enjoy nature.

Virtual & Hybrid Races: Many races, including the London Marathon, now offer virtual participation, allowing runners to complete the distance on their own terms. This flexibility has helped open up running to a broader audience.

Destination Marathons: Combining travel with running is becoming a major trend, with runners flocking to events in scenic locations around the world. Sydney is set to join London, Berlin, New York, Boston, Chicago and Tokyo as World Marathon Major in 2025… Coincidentally Sydney is also home to our first campus in Australia, giving students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant sport scene while enjoying everything this iconic city has to offer.

The Future of Running in the UK

With marathon and half-marathon entries at an all-time high, it’s clear that running isn’t just a passing trend—it’s becoming a lifestyle. Experts predict that participation numbers will continue to rise, with more focus on inclusivity, community-building, and diverse race formats to suit different fitness levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or someone considering your first 5K, now is the perfect time to get involved in the running movement. With major events like the London Marathon leading the charge, the UK’s running boom looks set to continue well into the future.

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