Global Running Day
Whether you need to get back in the habit or start a new one, take the opportunity to improve your health and well-being by going for a run. Plus, it’s free!
The pavement under your feet, the crisp snap of early morning air, the pounding rhythm as you run the distance one long flowing stride at a time.
Sweat trickling down your neck, the sun on your skin, your lungs burning with joyous exaltation as your heart beats a rapid but steady staccato in time with your running legs.
This is the joy of running, and every year millions of people all over the world find themselves out on the open road experiencing the joy, the thrill, and the pain, of recreational running.
Global Running Day celebrates these intrepid souls and their dedication to health and exercise, we should all join them.
How to Celebrate Global Running Day
Really, the only way to celebrate Global Running Day is by getting out and starting to run. Whether you’ve run before or have never tried in your life, simply put on your running shoes, get out of the house and begin.
Distance doesn’t matter, neither does walking when you need to catch your breath – running is a flexible sport that can be scaled up or down to suit all ages and abilities – the only important thing is that you begin.
If it’s your first run then, don’t overdo it, just start with a slow jog to begin with and take as long as you need to travel the distance. As you start feeling more confident you may want to up your pace or lengthen your run.
History of Global Running Day
Running describes a particular gait of movement where, in general, both feet leave the ground at some point during the stride.
That’s not to say that running always happens at the same speed, as gaits can change from person to person. Jogging and Sprinting are both considered forms of running but it doesn’t matter what speed you travel, if you’re out running you’re a runner!
Believe it or not, humans couldn’t always run. Admittedly, it was a long time ago when that was the case. When Australopithecus (our first upright ancestor) was evolving almost 4.5 million years ago, we gained the ability to have a long-striding run nearly.
This stride was vital to our existence because as a species we engaged in what is known as ‘persistence hunting’, where catching our prey often involved days of hunting on foot in order to track and wear the animal down until it could no longer flee, and would collapse from pure exhaustion.
Millions of years on, and a long time since we needed to chase down our prey, we’ve never lost our ability to run and instead we made it a competition.
Global Running Day celebrates the entire history of running, what it meant to our ancestors and what it still means to us today and is designed to bring together those people who absolutely love running and to encourage those who have yet to give it a try to put on their running trainers and to give it a go.
Benefits of Running
You don’t need to be a scientist to know that running is good for you. In the most basic sense, running is a great form of exercise, getting your blood pumping and your heart rate up, burning calories and improving your physical health.
But running won’t only help you to lose weight and get fit, it can help your mental health too, by working as a form of meditation in motion, reducing stress and lowering anxiety.
How to Get Better at Running
If you’ve tried running before and were shocked at how hard you find it then this isn’t an excuse to give up altogether.
Marathon runners weren’t born able to run marathons, and so if you’ve never run before then you need to manage your expectations.
Why not start with some guidance from an App like the Couch to 5K, where you will slowly build up your stamina by walking and running in short intervals until eventually, you can run a full 5 kilometers without stopping.
Here are some tips to help you with your running:
- Invest in good footwear
Running puts a lot of pressure on your feet, so be sure to buy a good pair of running trainers that will give you the required arch and ankle support. The right trainers will give you more spring in your step and will stop you from getting nasty blisters. - Always warm-up and cool down
Woah, hold your horses, you can’t just run off into the sunset without doing a proper warm-up. The good news is that warming up is easy, simply start your run with a brisk walk, get your heart rate up and after 5 minutes, off you pop. - Alternate between running and walking
There’s this misconception that to be a runner you can’t stop, but this is just unrealistic. Until you can run longer distances, set yourself targets to run for 60 seconds then walk for 60 seconds, increasing the running time when you need more of a challenge.
Global Running Day FAQs
How did the idea of running clubs begin?
Running clubs date back to the mid-19th century when formalized groups like the Thames Hare and Hounds (established in 1868) promoted group jogging as a recreational activity.
Today, many running clubs celebrate Global Running Day with community events, making it an opportunity for camaraderie and fitness.
This long-standing tradition ties personal wellness to social engagement.
Are there unusual marathon styles people adopt on this day?
Yes! Some runners celebrate by completing “beer miles,” where participants drink a small beer every quarter-mile.
Others try backward running (retro running) or wear costumes, creating fun challenges that add novelty to the day. These quirky approaches make running more inclusive and lighthearted.
Is there a historical link between running and storytelling?
Ancient cultures like the Greeks used running for more than fitness—it was a tool for delivering stories or news.
The famous run of Pheidippides from Marathon to Athens is an example.
Modern runners embrace this tradition by sharing personal stories during Global Running Day, fostering a connection to their community.
What role does running play in improving mental health?
Running boosts endorphins and reduces stress, but studies also show it can sharpen memory and concentration.
People worldwide mark Global Running Day with mindfulness runs, focusing on mental clarity rather than speed. These practices make the day about holistic wellness, not just physical fitness.
Are there any myths about running shoes?
A common myth is that expensive shoes guarantee better performance. Research suggests comfort and fit matter more than price.
Some runners celebrate the day by going barefoot or using minimalist footwear to reconnect with natural running styles, emphasizing simplicity over gear.
What’s the strangest terrain people run on for Global Running Day?
From desert sands in the Sahara to frozen trails in Antarctica, runners take to diverse terrains to mark the day.
In Japan, some enthusiasts tackle stair runs, scaling high-rise buildings. This adventurous spirit highlights how the day celebrates adaptability and exploration.
How do schools promote running among kids?
Many schools use Global Running Day to host “fun runs” or activity stations, turning running into a playful exercise.
Some programs reward participation with creative prizes, like colorful wristbands or medals. These efforts build excitement and encourage lifelong fitness habits.
What cultural superstitions relate to running?
In some countries, running before dawn is believed to attract good luck. In Ethiopia, it’s considered auspicious to run barefoot, honoring long-standing traditions.
Runners often incorporate these practices on Global Running Day, blending culture with their passion for fitness.
How do technology and running intersect in unique ways?
Fitness apps and smartwatches play a big role in today’s celebrations. Some runners use augmented reality (AR) apps that simulate races against virtual competitors.
Others track steps to earn points for charitable donations, blending tech with giving back.
What’s a fun way for families to celebrate together?
Families often create running-themed scavenger hunts for Global Running Day.
Each checkpoint involves a short sprint or a fun challenge, like hopping on one leg. This turns running into a game, making it engaging for kids and adults alike.
See what else is happening…
There’s always more going on every month at Days Of The Year. Here are our favorites this month!
Also on ...
View all holidays
National Cheese Day
Gather friends or family and host a cheese-tasting event. With everything from gouda to comté to brie, there’s sure to be something for everyone on Cheese Day.
National Hug Your Cat Day
Embrace your little bundle of furry joy and take some time to appreciate them. Of course, if they don’t want to be hugged, you may need some Band-Aids.
National Cognac Day
Made from wine grapes grown in a particular region of France, Cognac is actually a form of brandy. Host a tasting party and sit around in leather armchairs.
International Corgi Day
Pamper your corgi, buy corgi-related merch to help support the rescue and care of these animals, or get involved with a local event on International Corgi Day.
We think you may also like...
Harlem Globetrotter’s Day
Those basketball entertainers with jaw-dropping skills, comedic antics, and dazzling tricks — they turn the court into a stage of sheer amusement.
National Bike Month
Improve your health and the health of the entire planet by using National Bike Month to get back on that two-wheeled metaphorical horse and leave the car at home.
World Baton Twirling Day
Experience the mesmerizing artistry of rhythmic performance, where precision and flair intertwine in captivating displays of movement.
