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🇳🇵 Nepal /Culture & Society

For Kathmandu’s youths, running is about more than fitness

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • Youths in Kathmandu are increasingly joining running clubs for fitness and community, boosted by social media trends.
  • While running offers accessibility and mental health benefits, rising membership costs raise questions about inclusivity.
  • The social aspect and sense of belonging are key drivers for participation, with events and group runs fostering a strong community.

Running clubs are booming in Kathmandu, attracting young people seeking more than just physical fitness. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Strava have popularized the trend, encouraging individuals to gather for exercise and community building, sometimes with charitable aims.

Running clubs offer a chance to meet people with similar interests, make friends, and build a routine. For many, the social aspect is as important as the exercise.

— Kabita KharelFounder of Revive Fitness, explaining the appeal of running clubs to young people.

These clubs offer a vital social outlet for young adults juggling long work or study hours and extensive online time. The camaraderie and shared interest in running provide a sense of belonging, which many find as important as the physical activity itself. Running's low equipment requirement, just a good pair of shoes, makes it an accessible option for students and young professionals.

Awareness of mental health, cardiovascular fitness, and healthy lifestyles has increased especially after COVID 19. People are more aware about health and fitness all around the world including Nepal.

— Kabita KharelDiscussing the growing health consciousness influencing participation in running.

Increased global awareness of mental health and well-being, particularly post-COVID-19, has also fueled interest in running as an effective stress reliever. Kathmandu's growing number of road races, charity runs, and trail events provide tangible goals and generate excitement. Despite the benefits, questions linger about the affordability of club memberships, potentially excluding some interested individuals from this burgeoning fitness culture.

Instagram, Strava, and TikTok have made running more visible. Sharing race medals, sunrise runs, personal bests, and group photos has encouraged others to join.

— Kabita KharelHighlighting the role of social media in popularizing running.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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