Runner Habits

Asked to choose up to three reasons why they run or walk, the top selections were stay in shape/stay healthy, 78.4 percent; enjoy the activity; 34.8 percent; relieve stress, 34.3 percent; to train for a specific race, 31.2 percent; meet a personal challenge, 20.9 percent; appreciate nature/scenery, 20 percent; achieve a goal or personal record, 19.4 percent; improve key speed or endurance, 18.9 percent; be alone by myself for awhile, 17.2 percent; and socialize with friends/family, 15.4 percent.

Over three-quarters (76.7 percent) of respondents indicated they primarily run or walk on their own, while 8.1 percent primarily run with an organized group or club. This number is lower than in 2024, when 10.1 percent of respondents indicated they ran with an organized group or club. Additionally, respondents were asked how often they run with a running club or group. While the majority (51.2 percent) said they never run with a group, over one quarter (26.3 percent) indicated they run with a group at least once a week.