Who runs more – men or women?
Running is one of the most accessible and spontaneous physical activities, because it requires no gym, membership or expensive equipment – just the will, a pair of shoes and a little free time. That is exactly why many choose it as their first step towards a healthier life. But when we ask ourselves who actually runs more, men or women, the answer is not so simple, because it involves different aspects, such as frequency, motivation, competitive spirit and continuity.
The numbers say a lot – but not everything
Over the last ten years or so, in many countries women have taken the lead when it comes to recreational running over shorter distances (5 km and 10 km). According to data from mass races, women on average make up 55–60% of participants at these distances. However, in marathons and ultramarathons men still dominate in numbers, although that gap too is closing fast.
Psychological nuances: why do we run?
Men often approach running from a competitive standpoint, because they want to improve their time, distance and speed. Among women a greater orientation towards inner well-being is noticeable. They run for mental health, stress reduction and personal satisfaction. This emotional approach often makes them more persistent and more connected to running in the long run. That is why women run more often and more regularly in continuity, while men sometimes take longer breaks or turn to other sports.
Physiology and endurance
Men have greater muscle mass and higher testosterone levels, which allows better results over short and fast distances. Women, on the other hand, have a better tolerance for pain, a steadier pace and a more efficient fat metabolism, which makes them excellent ultramarathoners. Also, women on average more often run with a lower risk of injury because they pay more attention to warming up and recovery.
The social aspect and motivation
Many women find motivation in the community, whether it is a local running group, friends with whom they share the course, or virtual communities that support them. Coaches often notice that women come to training for the atmosphere and mutual support, while men more often come with a concrete goal but become demotivated more quickly if they do not achieve it.
Running through the phases of life
Interestingly, women, especially after their thirties, increasingly opt for running as a form of self-confidence and affirmation. The roles of mother, businesswoman and athlete are often intertwined in everyday life, and running gives them a space just for themselves. Men, on the other hand, are often most active in their younger years, but once they find a rhythm and purpose, they stay committed, especially in preparing for longer races and challenges.
The question of who runs more cannot be reduced to a simple comparison. Men on average run faster and longer races, but women run more often, more consistently and with more emotional engagement. In the end, what makes the difference is not gender but intention. Those who run more are those who know why they run, whether out of a desire to improve themselves, to find peace, or simply to breathe in the air while their legs follow the rhythm of their heart.
Sources:
https://scindeks-clanci.ceon.rs/data/pdf/1821-2077/2023/1821-20772302069I.pdf