Running, with its flexibility and adaptability, has become a suitable choice for contemporary lifestyles. But what has made running different in recent years is the way it creates new social spaces for participants.

In recent years, running has transcended its role as a purely physical activity to become a genuine socio-cultural phenomenon. From an individual sport, running is gradually being redefined as a way to connect people, form communities, establish shared rituals and develop lifestyles derived from physical activity. This shift is occurring against the backdrop of urbanisation, a fast-paced lifestyle and an increasingly urgent need for physical and mental balance.

<h2 style="text-align: center;">Accelerating post-quarantine progress</h2>

Running is one of the most accessible forms of exercise. It doesn't require complex skills or fancy equipment; anyone can start, anywhere and in any physical condition. Throughout the journey of pursuing this sport, runners always have milestones to conquer, from distance and speed to terrain, all creating a sense of continuous progress and motivation to persevere in the long term.
The feeling of exhilaration after each run comes not only from endorphins, but also from endocannabinoids &ndash; a group of natural neurotransmitters that improve mood, sleep, and a positive outlook on life. It is this combination of physical and mental benefits that makes running a sustainable habit, overcoming the short-term nature of many other fitness trends.
International data also clearly reflects this trend. Running Room (Canada) notes that the 20-30 age group is the fastest-growing segment in the running community, while Strava shows that the majority of new users belong to Generation Z, including those who previously did not prioritise sports in their lifestyles. And in the modern context, the greatest appeal of running lies in its community aspect, especially after the post-COVID-19 period, when the need for social reconnection became urgent, and running gradually transformed from an individual activity into a collective experience.

<h2 style="text-align: center;">If you&#39;re going to run a long distance, run together.</h2>

The proliferation of run clubs is clear evidence of this shift. In Vietnam, running clubs are becoming increasingly diverse, ranging from groups of friends, couples, families, businesses to communities. For many, running remains a private time to listen to their bodies. But to maintain a regular and long-term habit, running with others provides a very different source of motivation.
According to Strava's Year In Sport 2024 report, runners in groups of two or more tend to maintain consistent training frequency and achieve personal bests up to 80% higher than those running alone. Group running also helps share experiences, reduce the risk of injury, and create mental motivation when conquering long distances. A study by Oxford University showed that training with others can increase happiness levels due to the higher release of endorphins after each group workout.
In reality, solo running and group running aren't entirely separate. Many modern runners combine the two, running solo during technique training sessions to listen to their bodies and running in groups during long runs to maintain motivation and team spirit. For beginners, run clubs are often an easy way to form habits, improve technique, and avoid basic mistakes.
Changes in how clubs operate have also contributed to this trend. While in the past, newcomers were often hesitant to join run clubs due to concerns about fitness, speed, or introverted personalities, today they have more options than ever before. Each run club reflects a unique lifestyle, interests, and operating style. This diversity has made joining a run club more appealing and less stressful.

<h2 style="text-align: center;">Identity on every kilometer</h2>

In contemporary life, the rise of clubs centred around personal interests clearly reflects young people's need for identity and community. Run Clubs are also part of this trend, taking many forms, from trail running groups and ultramarathon clubs to LGBTQ+ communities and more casual social run clubs after work or on weekends.
Technology also plays a significant role in how these communities operate. Smartwear and digital platforms help runners track progress, maintain discipline, and connect with each other, even when they can't meet in person. Many Run Clubs expand their activities through virtual challenges, remote leaderboards, or online coaching, allowing each member to feel a sense of belonging, regardless of geographical distance or personal schedules.
Simultaneously, running has gradually become intertwined with fashion and urban aesthetics. While previously, running apparel focused primarily on functionality, today brands are paying more attention to materials, fit, and design, so that runners can be comfortable during exercise while still feeling confident in their daily activities.

In Vietnam, the growth of run clubs has paralleled the explosion of running events of all sizes across the country. From early morning runs in parks to social runs after work, running has gradually become a familiar part of urban life. Runners can connect through social media groups, local clubs, or meet at major races. Following a pacer at these events is also considered an effective form of "group running."
Established organisations like adidas Runners and Chay365 have also contributed to shaping the running culture in Vietnam, creating sustainable spaces for the running community. Alongside these are numerous informal running groups such as BA BAR-ATHON, OFFWORK, RISE RUN&nbsp; and short-distance social runs. These running communities don't prioritise achievements or charge fees; instead, they focus on creating a space for people with shared interests and personalities to connect.
Although it originated from the need for physical fitness, running has gradually opened up a wider world, connecting people and shaping new lifestyles and personalities. Run Clubs have thus become open spaces, allowing each individual to express themselves in their own way. Amidst the steady footsteps on urban streets, sports, fashion and community spirit quietly intertwine, creating a modern way of life.

The Run Club Trend: Why We Run Together

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