Gen Z is outrunning millennials but San Francisco run clubs are open to all ages
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Running is lapping other sports across fitness trackers, and Gen Z is setting the pace.
Why it matters: During a loneliness crisis and remote work era, running is one way to release stress and make new friends.
Between the lines: Young singles are also joining running clubs to find dates. Content creator Cindy Sandjo, 29, told The New York Times her followers said these groups "are the new dating apps."
By the numbers: 84% of Strava users tell the fitness tracker company their No. 1 reason for exercising is social connection.
- Gen Z is 29% more likely than millennials to work out with another person at least some of the time.
- Also, runners are 85% more likely to log a personal record when running in a group of two or more versus a solo run.
Fun fact: In Philadelphia, Kellen Matthews tells The Inquirer that a running club led him down a path of sobriety and eventually to participate in a Philly Marathon.
Zoom in: If you want to get started, San Francisco has its own running groups you can join.
- San Francisco Road Runners Club: This group host runs five days a week ranging from tracks and trails to a Wednesday fun run.
- Run Club SF: Billed as a "social club with a running problem," this group offers miles and smiles. It's summer run season goes until July 28 with Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday options.
- Golden Gate Running Club: Meeting on Wednesdays and Sundays, this club is for all levels of runners ranging from marathon trainers to people just looking to get moving.