Tourism data shows recreational sports are becoming an integral part of travel plans, with running trips among the top choices.

Run clubs are the new nightclubs according to fitness app Strava's Year in Sport: Trend Report. Its findings reveal a huge rise in run club participation and group activities, with ‘making social connections’ revealed as the lead motivator for people to exercise.

Strava recorded a 59 per cent increase in running club participation globally in 2024.

A recent survey by travel search engine Skyscanner also found 50 per cent of Australian respondents plan to engage in a running trip this year, with 92 per cent surveyed either participating or hoping to participate in an endurance event.

Skyscanner's data shows 51 per cent of 25-34-year-olds are looking to explore a new place by running or cycling, while 31 per cent of all Australian travellers have taken a fitness class while on holiday.

A survey by Accor Group found 18 per cent of British respondents plan to travel for sports in 2025, which coincides with a 50 per cent rise in searches for “workout holidays” over the past year.

Accor said marathons and Ironman events draw international participants, motivating travellers to plan trips around these competitions.

"Races in picturesque locations, such as historic cities, allow participants to experience new environments while engaging in their favourite sport," Accor said.

"These events often highlight the local culture, landmarks, and natural beauty, enhancing the overall travel experience."

Runners flock to Sydney Marathon

The 2025 TCS Sydney Marathon will take place on Sunday, 31 August, with 35,000 participants expected, setting another record for Australia’s largest-ever marathon.

It promises to showcase the vibrant atmosphere, energy and excitement that makes Sydney a must-visit destination on the global marathon calendar.

Sydney Marathon was announced in late 2024 as an Abbott World Marathon Major event, elevating it to the pinnacle of global marathons.

The achievement positions Sydney alongside the world’s largest and most renowned marathons, including the Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York City Marathons.

Abbott World Marathon Major status is the gold standard in marathon running, attracting the world’s greatest distance runners and wheelchair racers. The races draw global attention, elevating both elite competition and the experience for thousands of running enthusiasts.

The TCS Sydney Marathon is supported proudly by Destination NSW. The event is owned by Athletics Australia and managed by Pont3.

Learn more about TCS Sydney Marathon here.