Why is the Half Marathon distance so popular?
Our very own Race Director, Martin Harrigan explores themes on why running and in particular the Half Marathon distance is currently so popular.
I think it’s fair to say that all of us in the running community are still in shock at the record number of applications for next year’s London Marathon – 840,000 in total – an increase in over 250,000 applicants from the previous year.
And it’s not just the London Marathon that is witnessing this incredible growth in numbers –running events across the UK have been reporting similar stories of sold-out events with large city based Half Marathons proving particularly popular.
And in our own small way we kicked off this trend back in February with a sold-out race which saw over 8,000 finishers on Madeira Drive – a new record for the Brighton Half.
So perhaps it’s worth asking – why has running and running events in particular become so popular?
As always there are a number of factors that are helping contribute to the current feel good factor around running –fitness, socializing, fun and mental health have all been highlighted and of course what could be easier to access than running – a form of exercise that can be done almost anywhere, requiring minimal equipment or initial cost.
Of course, once you have taken those first steps into becoming a runner you soon find out that there is a whole world of support you can tap into with running apps and wearable fitness trackers widely available making it even easier for people to track their runs, set goals, and connect with other runners, making running a more engaging and interactive activity.
Add to this the rise of the local run club – a whole topic in its own right – that has added an incredible social element and real sense of “community” for those involved – with a big emphasis on being inclusive and having fun.
And we certainly can’t ignore the role social media has played in making running dare I say – “trendy” with influencers and fitness enthusiasts sharing their running experiences and progress online – and just as importantly encouraging a whole new younger demographic to get out and be active.
And if you needed more proof of this in action -just take a look at our own race this year as we were joined by high profile actors, comedians and reality TV stars – a number of whom had one million plus followers on their social media platforms!
And finally let’s not forget that running events have a long history of promoting good causes (Brighton Half itself is Charity owned) with many runners participating and fundraising for Charity so perhaps it’s no surprise that sponsorship is at record levels and that fundraising at the Half this year broke through the one million pound barrier for the first time – an amazing achievement for all those concerned.
So, whatever your reason for running – whether its for Charity, a personal goal, as part of a weekend away with your friends – or just as an opportunity to spot the odd celeb or two – it’s all good – I just wouldn’t leave it too long in getting your place for 2025!
You can secure your 2025 Rubix VT Brighton Half Marathon entry here: https://brighton-half.eventize.co.uk/e/brighton-half-marathon-9432
