More people are swapping the booze for running shoes

Young men are seeking real connection through run clubs rather than alcohol-soaked revelry, according to fitness journalist Steven Aadame. He notes that group running is one of the fastest-growing social outlets related to fitness, with some communities seeing massive expansion in recent years – turning the activity into one of the default ways that younger people connect.

Fitness app Strava reports that run club participation has surged 59% over the past two years, making it the fastest-growing activity on its network of over 100 million athletes. This is good news for the world’s physical and mental health, as people who train in groups tend to perform better and report lower stress levels.

“Walk into any city on a weekday night or early Saturday morning and you’ll see it,” notes Aadame. “Groups of 20 to 100 people gathering not outside bars, but on sidewalks, tracks, and coffee shops. The modern social scene isn’t loud, late, or alcohol driven anymore. It’s structured, active, and intentional.”

Another benefit of run clubs is that most of them are free – an important consideration for young people (or anyone, for that matter) struggling with the rising cost of living. Why blow your money on overpriced food, drinks and cover charges when you can have a great social experience for the cost of going outside ($0)? Throw in some casual drinks or snacks after the run, and you have an affordable alternative to nightlife that’s both fun and healthy.