Slow Economy Leads to Faster Runners

Thursday July 9, 2009

I always read or watch the news hoping to hear something good about this terrible economy. Unfortunately, it's usually all doom and gloom. But I did finally hear about one positive result from this bad economy: More people are running, and they're running faster.

An article in the Wall Street Journal reports that a recent trend in faster marathon times may be attributed to the high percentage of unemployed Americans. Looking for some structure in their lives, laid-off workers are joining competitive running groups and working toward improving their personal bests.

"With the economy in the doldrums, more people are discovering that without those 12-hour workdays, they're able to pursue fitness goals like never before. Marathons, triathlons and road races are filling up in record time," according to the article.

This article definitely confirms what I've seen on the running team that I coach. I've talked to many new runners who've said that being unemployed finally gave them the time to pursue a long-time goal of running a marathon.

It's really inspiring to hear about people who take a tough situation, like being out of a job, and see it as an opportunity for achievement. Rather than sitting on the couch feeling sorry for themselves, they're running and working toward a goal. It's a smart move for many reasons. I know lots of runners who've made professional contacts on their running teams, which led to job offers. Plus, the self-confidence and positive outlook that comes with training for a race can't hurt when it comes to landing a new job.