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Prepared Runner reference

U.S. running statistics,
clearly sourced.

Current participation figures for road and trail running, gathered in one practical reference for writers, race organizers, running groups, and curious runners. Every number below names its source and data year.

Last updated September 29, 2026U.S. participation data

At a glance

Running is broadening,
and trail running is rising.

The latest available industry reports show a large road-running audience alongside a rapidly growing trail-running segment. The participation picture is not only about devoted racers: many people now use running as one part of a flexible mix of movement, community, and time outside.

That matters locally. A shorter race, a welcoming club run, or a simple first trail outing can be a meaningful entry point, not a lesser version of the sport.

Participation and frequency

Eight figures worth keeping handy.

Use the linked source next to each statistic when you need to check the original reporting or cite the underlying research.

How to read the numbers

Participation is not the same as a race start.

These reports count people who took part in an activity during the stated year. They are useful for understanding the reach and direction of running, but they do not measure race registration, club membership, or weekly mileage one-for-one.

The Outdoor Industry Association’s 2026 Running Report separates road and trail running and distinguishes between casual participation and core participation. Its core threshold is 50 or more running occasions in a year. The Sports & Fitness Industry Association tracks participation across a broader set of sports and fitness activities for Americans age six and older.

Method and sources

Built for a clean citation.

Prepared Runner reviewed the latest publicly available summaries from established U.S. industry research organizations. We report figures as the source presents them, keep the source year next to each statistic, and will refresh this page when a newer foundational report is available.

  1. Outdoor Industry Association, 2026 Running Report executive summary. Published in 2026, reporting participation data for 2025. ↗
  2. Sports & Fitness Industry Association, 2025 Topline Participation Report announcement. Published February 27, 2025, reporting participation data for 2024. ↗

Cite this page

Prepared Runner. “U.S. Running Statistics: 2025 Participation and Trail Trends.” Updated September 29, 2026. https://preparedrunner.com/running-statistics

Put the numbers to work

Find your next
way in.

Whether you want company, a start line, or a little more confidence before the next run, Prepared Runner has a practical place to begin.

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