The Rise of Marathon Running in Asia: A Growing Trend

Khoshnaw Rahmani, JadeTimes Staff

K. Rahmani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Sports.

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Image Source: Jared Wickerham

The sun was barely rising, but the streets were already alive.

Thousands of runners—beginners, professionals, weekend warriors—lined up at the starting line, buzzing with anticipation. Shoes tapped against the pavement in nervous excitement, watches beeped, stretching routines wrapped up. This wasn’t just a race. It was a movement.

Marathon running in Asia is no longer just for elite athletes. It’s a growing trend, fueled by community, fitness goals, and the thrill of pushing limits. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the scenic landscapes of Bangkok, every year sees record-breaking participation, proving that endurance running is transforming into one of the region’s most beloved sports.

But what’s driving this rise? And more importantly—where is it headed next?

Let’s dive into the unstoppable momentum of marathon running in Asia.

The Surge in Marathon Popularity: Why Asia is Running Toward Endurance Sports

1. The Fitness Revolution

Across Asia, the pursuit of health and wellness has ignited a passion for endurance sports. Marathon running now symbolizes both physical prowess and mental resilience.

• In cities like Tokyo, the flagship event—the Tokyo Marathon gathered around 35,000 finishers in its latest edition, rebounding from about 30,000 finishers in previous years as the event recovered from pandemic disruptions.

• Shanghai Marathon data shows that participation has climbed from approximately 30,000 runners in 2018 to around 40,000 by 2022, marking a 33% increase over recent years. These figures underscore a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven fitness in Asia, supported by local initiatives and a collective emphasis on well-being.

2. Community & Social Connection

Marathon running has evolved into a shared experience—a vibrant festival of determination and camaraderie.

• In Bangkok and Jakarta, marathons now go beyond the race itself, expanding into family-friendly events, music festivals, and cultural celebrations that unite communities.

• Social media and local running clubs have amplified this spirit, inspiring countless newcomers to take on their first step toward long-distance running and forge lasting friendships along the journey.

3. Corporate & Government Backing

Big brands and local governments are capitalizing on marathon events as powerful tools to promote healthy lifestyles and vibrant community engagement.

• The Singapore Marathon set a new record in 2023 with approximately 55,000 runners participating—a 15% increase from the previous year—that not only boosted local morale but also attracted international attention.

• With events like the Tokyo Marathon and Singapore Marathon generating significant economic benefits through sports tourism, both public and private sectors are keen to invest further in this growing movement.

4. Record-Breaking Achievements & Rising Competitiveness

Asia’s marathon scene is not only growing in numbers but also in competitive spirit.

• The Seoul Marathon has experienced an annual growth in participation estimated at 20–25% over the past five years, illustrating a robust and increasingly competitive landscape.

• Breakthrough performances by elite runners, such as Japan’s star athlete who recently set national records, continue to inspire a new generation of Asian endurance competitors, setting the stage for further breakthroughs on the global stage.

Asia’s Marathon Boom is Just Getting Started

From the neon streets of Tokyo to the sweeping avenues of Shanghai, the marathon phenomenon across Asia reflects both a personal challenge and a unifying community event. What began as a niche sport has exploded into a mass movement—one marked by record-breaking numbers, extensive corporate and governmental support, and an ever-growing competitive spirit.

With iconic events rejuvenating crowds post-pandemic and a steady upward trend in participation, Asia is set to redefine the global endurance sport landscape. Expect even grander events, faster records, and millions more pounding the pavements in the years ahead.