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What is the history behind the emergence of running as a popular sport in the United States?

Ian Sharland

Running is such a popular sport in the United States that it is hard to imagine a time when it wasn't. However, it wasn't until the early 1970s that running began to emerge as a mainstream sport in the country.

One of the earliest events that signaled the rise of running as a popular sport was the running boom of the 1970s. This boom was triggered by a number of factors, including the introduction of jogging by Dr. Kenneth H. Cooper, the publication of the book "The Complete Book of Running" by James F. Fixx, and the founding of Runner's World magazine. These events inspired a generation of Americans to take up running as a form of exercise and, eventually, as a competitive sport.

One of the most important events in the history of running in the United States was the first New York City Marathon, which was held in 1970. This event was organized by a group of runners who had been inspired by the Boston Marathon, which had been held since 1897. The New York City Marathon attracted just 127 runners in its inaugural year, but it quickly grew in popularity and became one of the most prestigious marathons in the world.

Another important event in the history of running in the United States was the founding of the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) in 1958. The RRCA played a key role in the development of the sport by organizing races, promoting the sport, and providing education and training resources for runners of all levels.

In addition to these early events, the growth of running was also fueled by the increasing focus on health and fitness in the United States in the 1970s. As more Americans became interested in staying healthy and active, running became one of the most popular forms of exercise, and it remains so to this day.

In conclusion, the history of running in the United States is a fascinating one that is marked by a series of key events and trends. From the running boom of the 1970s to the founding of the first New York City Marathon to the growth of the sport through the efforts of organizations like the RRCA, running has become deeply ingrained in American culture and is enjoyed by millions of people across the country.