Are “runfluencers” ruining running?

July 2, 2025

Influencers are taking over the world. Social media users are leaning more and more heavily on these content creators for advice on fashion, travel, food and fitness. And with running growing more popular by the day, running influencers–or “runfluencers”–are hitting their stride.

They’re promoting races, run clubs and giving running brands a platform to reach new audiences, which has undoubtedly contributed to the surge in runners. But how realistic is it? Are “runfluencers” actually qualified to promote running gear, hand out training advice and (in some cases) even coach beginner runners? Running Magazine