From running to hiking: the fastest-growing sports in the world and what this reveals for marketing Merca2.0
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The fitness world is changing, and it’s not just a perception: the data confirms it. The latest global report from Strava, based on millions of activities logged by users across more than 190 countries, reveals a profound transformation in the way people practice sports such as running, cycling, and hiking.
Far from the obsession with peak performance, exercise has begun to be redefined by users as a social, accessible activity focused on well-being. From the rise of trail running to the sustained growth of hiking, the report shows how sports habits are evolving alongside the priorities of younger generations.
Why does running remain the most popular sport according to Strava?
According to the Strava report, running remains the most practiced sport worldwide, accounting for a significant share of the activities recorded on the platform.
However, the most important finding is not its popularity, but its transformation:
- More than 60% of runners prefer shorter distances and moderate training sessions.
- 5K to 10K runs are the most common.
- Activities tagged as “social runs” increased by more than 40% compared to the previous year.
This shift indicates that running is no longer dominated by competition or elite performance, but by consistency, community, and mental health.
Which sports grew the most in 2025 according to the Strava report?
While running leads in overall volume, other sports posted the highest percentage growth in 2025:
- Hiking: more than a 50% increase in recorded activities
- Trail running: nearly 30% growth
- Recreational cycling: more than 20% growth
- Urban cycling (commuting): double-digit growth in key cities
The hiking boom is particularly significant. Strava found that more users are seeking outdoor experiences with less competitive pressure and a stronger connection to nature.
Why has hiking become a global trend?
The growth of hiking is no coincidence. According to Strava, it is driven by three main factors:
- Mental well-being: more than 70% of users say they participate in outdoor activities to reduce stress.
- Accessibility: it does not require sophisticated equipment or advanced fitness levels.
- Social experience: many routes are completed in groups or through local communities.
Additionally, hiking ranks among the sports with the highest user retention, meaning people who begin hiking are likely to continue practicing it over time.
How did the way people exercise change in 2025?
The Strava report identifies a clear trend: fitness has shifted from being intensive to becoming sustainable. Among the most notable findings:
- More than 65% of active users prioritize weekly consistency over intensity.
- Group activities grew by more than 25%.
- The number of sports clubs on the platform increased significantly, boosting community participation.
This transformation redefines success in sports: it’s no longer about breaking records, but about maintaining healthy habits.
What role does technology play in today’s sports?
Technology continues to be a key pillar in the evolution of fitness. The Strava ecosystem is powered by devices such as smartwatches and wearables, allowing users to monitor every aspect of their performance.
- More than 80% of activities are recorded using connected devices.
- Tracking metrics such as heart rate, pace, and calories has become standard.
- Users who rely on performance data are up to twice as likely to stay consistent with their training.
In this context, sports are becoming an increasingly personalized and data-driven experience.
What role does mental health play in the rise of sports?
The report also confirms a cultural shift: sports are no longer practiced solely for physical reasons.
- More than 75% of users say they train to improve their emotional well-being.
- Activities such as hiking and trail running are directly associated with stress reduction.
- Connecting with nature has become a key factor in choosing sports and outdoor activities.
In this sense, fitness is increasingly recognized as a comprehensive tool for overall health.
What trends will shape the future of running and other sports?
Based on Strava’s data, several trends are expected to shape the future of fitness in the coming years:
- More outdoor sports: hiking, trail running, and cycling will continue to grow.
- Greater focus on community: sports will become increasingly social.
- Integrated technology: the use of performance data will continue to expand.
- Well-being over performance: mental health will remain a top priority.
Running, while it will continue to lead in popularity, will coexist with new forms of physical activity that prioritize the experience over competition.
