The Growth of Marathons and Ultramarathons: A Surprising Global Phenomenon

October 9, 2024

In recent years, marathons and ultramarathons have experienced exponential growth in terms of participation and visibility.
Once reserved for elite athletes, these events have indeed transformed into global phenomena involving millions of people of all ages and fitness levels.
Today, running a marathon or an ultramarathon represents, for many, a life goal, an experience that combines physical challenge and personal growth.
The allure of long-distance running, ultimately, seems to lie precisely in this: the ability to push beyond one’s limits in a challenge that is, above all, with oneself.

The Reasons Behind the Boom of Marathons and Ultramarathons

Physical and Mental Well-being

We live in an era where health and well-being are central to the lives of many people.

Endurance races are seen as an effective way to improve both physical and mental condition.

Running regularly, in fact, promotes maintaining physical fitness, contributes to stress reduction, improves sleep, and boosts self-esteem.

Taking on a challenge like a marathon provides a sense of accomplishment and helps develop resilience and mental strength.

Personal Challenge

Participating in a marathon or ultramarathon is seen as the peak of a journey of preparation and discipline.

It’s a self-determination test that pushes limits, giving participants the chance to surpass themselves and reach new goals.

Crossing the finish line, a symbol of personal achievement, is often more important than the result itself.

The Community Culture

Additionally, the world of running has developed a strong sense of community.

Social media, blogs, and training platforms allow runners to share their progress, experiences, and successes, fueling a sense of belonging.

Therefore, participating in a marathon means being part of a community that shares the same values: perseverance, sacrifice, and passion.

Sports Tourism

Prestigious marathons like New York, London, and Boston attract international participants from all corners of the globe.

Many runners take the opportunity to combine their passion for running with the chance to explore new cities and cultures, making the marathon not just a sporting experience.

Emulating the Elite

Finally, the extraordinary feats of professional athletes, such as Eliud Kipchoge’s attempt to break the two-hour marathon barrier, have inspired a growing audience to take on long-distance running.

The visibility these events receive from the media creates an emulation effect, driving many people to test themselves with these challenges.

Innovations to Enhance the Athlete Experience

Technology and Personalization

The use of personalized training apps and wearable devices has revolutionized how runners prepare for a race.

These tools allow tracking progress, monitoring performance, and adapting training programs to individual needs.

During competitions, the use of timing chips and mobile apps to follow participants in real time helps runners stay focused on their goals and receive support even from afar.

Sustainability

With growing environmental awareness, many races have adopted measures to reduce the ecological impact of events.

From banning plastic bottles to supporting reforestation initiatives, organizations are indeed committed to organizing more sustainable events.

A significant example is reducing waste through plastic-free aid stations or using recycled materials for medals and participant kits.

Immersive Experiences

Marathons and ultramarathons are no longer just about the race itself.

Many events now offer experiential packages that include concerts, cultural events, and activities for the whole family.

In some cities, for example, participants can run through iconic locations or be accompanied by performances along the course, immersing themselves in a unique atmosphere.

Participation Incentives

To encourage broader participation, many marathons are introducing special categories and alternative race formats.

From relay races to shorter distances, organizers are making races more accessible to beginners or those not yet ready to complete the traditional 42.195 km.

Even in ultramarathons, innovative formats are appearing, offering multi-day courses or challenges on varied terrains such as trails or deserts.

Psychological and Motivational Support

Finally, in line with the ongoing focus on mental well-being, many races now offer psychological support services before and after the race.

In fact, mental coaches, support groups, and motivational workshops are available to help runners manage performance anxiety and develop the resilience needed for such demanding races.

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