The rise of running influencers has sparked both excitement and concern within the fitness community. While these online personalities inspire and motivate their followers to get active, there are growing debates about the potential risks and the quality of advice they offer. This article delves into the complex relationship between running influencers, their impact, and the need for a balanced approach to fitness.
The Running Influencer Boom
The popularity of running as a sport and lifestyle has skyrocketed, and social media influencers have played a significant role in this surge. Katie Dall, a Brisbane-based run coach, has witnessed this firsthand. Her weekly run clubs now attract hundreds of participants, indicating a growing interest in running.
Runners themselves attest to the positive influence of these online personalities. They provide motivation and inspiration, encouraging people to get off their phones and get moving. This shift in behavior is a welcome change from the 'doomscroll' of endless scrolling through social media feeds.
However, the focus has recently shifted to the potential dangers of this trend. Discussions online have centered around injuries, particularly stress-related ones, after some high-profile influencers shared their experiences with recovery and over-training.
The Dark Side of Over-Training
Dall acknowledges the positive impact of running influencers but also highlights a concerning trend. She observes a lack of education about over-training, proper weekly running plans, and the number of events one should sign up for annually. This has led to people signing up for every run club, race, and Parkrun, often trying to beat their personal bests.
The pressure to 'do too much' is evident, and it's not just the influencers who feel the heat. Brands also play a role, encouraging influencers to participate in more events than recommended. This has resulted in a culture of 'quantity over quality', with people pushing their bodies to the limit.
The Importance of Rest and Recovery
Cam McDonald, a Brisbane-based exercise physiologist and dietician, echoes Dall's concerns. He emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery in exercise, stating that stress injuries are not a 'badge of honor'. He believes that the pressure on influencers to perform and 'push forward' can lead to dangerous practices.
McDonald suggests that influencers should focus on moderation and proper recovery techniques. He recommends that runners should not train for more than three marathons a year and should prioritize fuelling properly and taking rest days. The elite runners, he notes, have a much higher ratio of rest to training.
The Unattainable Lifestyle
The issue of unrealistic expectations is not unique to running influencers. Crystal Abidin, a digital anthropologist and Curtin University professor of internet studies, points out that influencers often promote lifestyles that seem unattainable. This can be misleading, as they are not celebrities or experts, and their followers may struggle to achieve the same level of intensity.
In conclusion, while running influencers have undoubtedly contributed to the popularity of running, it is essential to approach their advice with caution. The fitness community should strive for a balanced approach, prioritizing quality over quantity and ensuring that rest and recovery are integral parts of any exercise routine. By doing so, we can harness the positive impact of these influencers while mitigating potential risks.
