By Allegra Gervasi, Philosophy MA
Post-pandemic, it seems like everyone is running. Extra free time, indoor confinement, and increased awareness around respiratory health seem like perfectly good reasons to trigger a running renaissance. And yet 6 years later, running has stuck around, and its popularity only seems to be on the increase. It is often said that running a marathon is a textbook response to a quarter-life crisis, and I think there is a deep seed of truth in this. Here I uncover some of the major drivers behind the ever-growing running trend.
Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, coined the term ‘crisis of meaning’ to refer to the idea that many of the ills that affect people in modern society are rooted in a general lack of meaning and purpose. This was later implemented by Frankl and others in the practice of psychotherapy. The core observation behind this idea is that it is only possible to move through the inherent challenges of life when one’s suffering is understood as a means to achieve a greater goal. That is, whether it is the care of family, friends, and community or a project one is passionate about, it is the genuine love and dedication to these aspects of life which make hardship feel bearable, and perhaps even empowering.
It is interesting to notice that as mainstream culture has moved away from religious markers of meaning, a rejection of some of the core tenets of traditionalism has led to hyperindividualism, workaholism, and, I would classify with these, extreme party culture. I think that Gen Zers and Millennials have come to reject both of these meaning paradigms, as more awareness around mental health and wellbeing has created disenchantment with career success and a crazy Saturday night as the ultimate sources of purpose. Gen Z is, in fact, widely considered the most sober generation in modern history, and this may be understood to have left a gap.
While I don’t believe running is the be-all and end-all solution to the complex identity issues of modern society, I do think it successfully encapsulates some of the core aspects that might be.
Choosing to run a marathon, as well as committing to run 2k without stopping for the first time, provides a satisfactory, healthy, and actionable goal. As described by Frankl's diagnosis of mental distress, the runner will push through discomfort and lengthy marathon training because of the drive to reach the finish line, which always leaves you feeling really good. Recent research suggests that while the release of endorphins does not seem to be correlated with what we commonly refer to as ‘the runner's high’, this is indeed a real phenomenon, and it might be better explained by endocannabinoids. These are neurotransmitters produced by the body that bind to cannabinoid receptors, which then help maintain homeostasis and affect mood, stress, and pain. Interestingly, when the THC that is found in cannabis is introduced into the body, it binds to the same cannabinoid receptors, yielding a similar effect. While the reaction caused by cannabis induced cannabinoids can be overstimulating, the natural production of endocannabinoids, which seems to increase as a consequence of the demands of long-duration cardio, is always perfectly regulated, presenting itself as an ideal substitute, or complement, to reach that peaceful, calming, and euphoric feeling.
Another aspect that has motivated younger generations to turn to marathon training as a response to some version of the ‘crisis of meaning’ is, I believe, the community aspect. I have heard people refer to marathons, races, and even run clubs as having a music festival kind of vibe. As young people crave connecting experiences and third places that go beyond the pub, running combines getting outdoors, scenic views, meeting new people, and maybe even vibing to a hype playlist. A trend that went viral on TikTok around 2024 even showed young, active people joining run clubs to encounter potential like-minded partners!
@runna A single run club? Say less @tinder_uk | part 3 coming soon! #runclub #running #runna #singlelife #single #dating #london #lookingforaman #londonlife
♬ Looking for a man tima remix - Tima Pages
Finally, as is true of the more general trend of all things health and wellness, I think that running represents Gen Z's favourite word: balance. Younger generations are looking for meaning by committing to something good and productive, yet not necessarily life-altering or all-encompassing. A soul-level commitment to the corporate world is not cutting it anymore, and, at the same time, another running joke is that, whilst the millennial expectation was to have a family in your mid-twenties, we are signing up for marathons. Running is not necessarily the holy grail of a purposeful life; however, I believe it captures younger generations’ search for their own version of meaning.
Kashvi Cox
If this motivated you to go for a jog, many incredible green spaces in Bristol make it easy to want to get outside. Two of my favourites are the Ashton Court Estate and the Downs. Running the perimeter of the park constitutes a nice 6km route, while for an easier run I would suggest starting from the entrance to the paved path near the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and following the path until the Gully and then back (this is approximately 3km). The annual Bristol half-marathon and 10k just happened, so if you are thinking of getting into running, you are at the perfect time to secure a cheaper entry and start preparing for the next one happening in May 2027! The UoB social run club is also a great place to reap all the perks of running; follow them on Instagram @uobsocialrunclub to stay up to date and join their events.
Lastly, if you want to start running, I suggest you start super slow and work on building distance. Make it fun and ideally find some running buddies. And remember, you don’t need all the gadgets. One of the best parts of running is that it’s free; all you really need is a pair of shoes.
Featured Image: Miguel A Amutio / Unsplash
What do you think the next trend will be in Gen Z's search for meaning?
