Are Runners Getting Faster? New Running USA Report Analyzes Finisher Trends Across Distances

December 10, 2024

(Dec. 10, 2024) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ — Does it feel like runners are getting faster? According to a new report from Running USA, the answer is yes—at least for certain distances. From shattering world records to breaking personal bests, the recreational running world has seen changes in the past decade.

The new Industry Trends report is now available for download and is free for Running USA members.

The report highlights astonishing milestones, such as the progression of women’s marathon world records. In 2003, Paula Radcliffe’s 2:15:25 record stood for 16 years until Brigid Kosgei’s historic run at the 2019 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Then, Tigist Asefa slashed an additional two minutes off that time in Berlin last year, and Ruth Chepngetich stunned the world with a 2:09:56 victory in Chicago just months ago. In fact, 14 of the top 20 fastest women’s marathon times have been achieved since the start of 2023.

Men’s half marathon performances show a similar trend. Of the top 30 fastest half marathon times in history, only three occurred before 2019.

But is this rapid improvement limited to elite runners, or is the trend mirrored among everyday road race participants? Running USA’s latest analysis dives into data across all levels of participation, revealing nuanced insights:

While marathon finish times are improving overall, other distances like the 5K and 10K are actually slowing by two to three minutes on average.

The Boston Marathon recently tightened qualifying standards for its 2025 race, yet entrants still had to run nearly seven minutes faster than the adjusted standard to secure a spot.

Course cutoff times are expanding to accommodate a broader range of participants, reflecting a more inclusive running culture.

“Understanding these trends is crucial for race organizers, municipalities, and marketers alike,” said Jay Holder, Executive Director of Running USA. “Faster finish times impact operational planning, from aid station services to road closure schedules. Meanwhile, shifting participant demographics emphasize the need for inclusive marketing and event experiences that resonate with a wide audience.”

The report also offers a detailed breakdown of trends by age and gender, providing actionable insights for race directors, sponsors, and stakeholders to enhance participant satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Download the full report here.

About Running USA

Running USA is a non-profit that serves as the leading trade organization for the running industry in North America and hosts the nation’s preeminent industry conference annually. Through education, research, best practices and data, Running USA is committed to supporting and facilitating growth, diversification and excitement in running communities everywhere. We promote networking and idea-sharing between event organizers, sponsors, vendors and athletes. Running USA is a member of a global alliance of organizations focused on the betterment of the global running community including the Running Industry Alliance and European Athletics. For more information, visit runningusa.org.