From crowded, bustling cities to quiet, secluded suburbs, it seems like everybody is trying to lace up and squeeze in a run whenever possible. For the last year, on social media, there has been a recent rise in running-related content. But who would want to do that? One is not only putting themselves through tremendous physical pain, but they are simultaneously testing their mental aptitude, making running no easy feat. However, the recent surge in running trends begs the question: why is a task so dreadful starting to grow rapidly?

   In a time of political outrage, running has been the one activity people can rely on to bring a community together.  Especially amidst this harrowing shutdown (which has cut SNAP benefits to millions, is forcing federal employees to work without getting paid, and causing major air-traffic control disruptions) a DC runner’s recent efforts has caught widespread attention across social media.  Rob Perez runs one mile for every day the government is shut down, spreading awareness to the youth and Generation Z about this budget deadlock’s consequences of this budget deadlock. In this dark time for the United States, Perez hopes to add a glimmer of hope, one mile at a time. However, this is not the only inspiration that has caught the eyes of millions.  On November 2, 2025, the New York City Marathon was the internet’s talking point.  This major spectacle brought out two million spectators to the already vibrant, bustling city, creating a galvanised running community. Whether it is seeing record holder Eliud Kipchoge running his last marathon or the empowering double amputee athlete Juan Pablo Dos Santon, this milestone proved that humanity still exists in a time of hatred and division. Completing the race’s grueling 26.2 miles is such a tremendous feat that less than one percent of the population has managed to accomplish, and the volunteers organizing this event and supporters cheering relentlessly makes this achievement possible.

   Delving into the marvels of running and the support individuals who participate in this activity receive, Kaylie Avery (10) shares why she chose the sport that is often deemed as a punishment: “I wanted to strive for greatness while maintaining a certain level of discipline. Cross country builds this strong, supportive community and shifts the lens in which running is viewed, making it an uplifting group to be a part of.” Avery’s commitment and discipline towards running has also helped greatly outside of school as she further elaborated, “running has benefited me in more ways than one.  It helped me embody many ways of discipline and focus. I also made some of my closest friends who care about me both as an athlete and person.”  Her relationship with running is one that can be admired, and hopefully one we can strive to achieve.  Not only has the lessons she learned carry her beyond school, but it has paved the way for discipline to lead her life.  Eric Jerez (10), who recently completed the Trick or Trot Half Marathon in Long Beach, shared why he wanted to embark on this challenge, stating, “at first, I wanted to run a half marathon to prove something—to show my parents I wasn’t as lazy or out of shape as they thought. But everything changed after my best friend asked me to run the half marathon with her. For the first time, the challenge didn’t feel like something I had to do for someone else. It became our challenge—something just for the two of us.”  Jerez’s reason indicates how comradery can tackle any challenge. His inspiring story, and more importantly reason, has proved to us that running embraces every kind of person.  Any one who is willing to put themselves out there and start running to a new version of themselves is already on the right route. 

   You don’t need to have the new Nike Alpha Flys or the best fueling gels of all time to get started.  It takes a little discipline and mental fortitude to get through your first run, arguably your hardest. Nonetheless, it is the experience that ensures that this hurdle is worth it because it spreads powerful stories, one stride at a time.