Today, Explained
Why everybody's running marathons now
Nov 1, 2024
Maggie Mertens, journalist and author of "Better, Faster, Farther," teams up with Kevin Masters, a health psychology professor, to explore the marathon boom among 20-somethings. They discuss how running helps tackle quarter-life crises and the nearly 20% increase in participants from 2022 to 2023. The conversation highlights emotional journeys, community building, and psychological benefits, revealing why more people are lacing up their shoes. From personal growth to lifelong fitness habits, marathons are reshaping lives in remarkable ways.
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Quick takeaways
- The surge in marathon participation, especially among 20-somethings, reflects a growing trend of using running to navigate quarter-life crises and foster community.
- Despite physical challenges and risks such as injuries and health problems, marathons offer transformative experiences that redefine self-perception and provide significant psychological benefits.
Deep dives
The Physical Challenges of Marathon Running
Marathon running presents various physical challenges that participants experience, including gastrointestinal issues such as unexpected bowel movements, vomiting, dehydration, and overheating. Common injuries and afflictions include runner's knee, which occurs from overuse, and chafing in sensitive areas like nipples and thighs due to prolonged friction. Despite these physical hurdles, marathons can be transformative experiences that provide a sense of achievement and redefine self-perception for many runners. While the risk of serious health problems like heart attacks exists, they are relatively rare, emphasizing the need for proper training and preparation.
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