"Keep Running Even with Knee Pain": Surge in Injuries Among UK Twentysomethings Amid Running Craze and All-Out Sprint Videos

"Challenging a Marathon with Little Exercise Experience"
"Young People Push Themselves for Quick Results in Running"

Concerns are rising in the United Kingdom that running influencers are promoting excessive exercise routines, leading to a surge in injuries among young people.

According to the British daily The Daily Mail on May 25 (local time), Kurt Johnson, CEO of the physical therapy company One Body LDN, stated that running-related injuries have increased over the past five years. He cited runner's knee, iliotibial band syndrome, patellofemoral pain syndrome, and various types of tendinitis as typical examples. In addition, he noted that cases of ankle sprains and hip and lower back pain are also on the rise.

Analysts attribute this trend to the running boom that has spread particularly among younger generations. This year, a record 1.1 million people applied to participate in the London Marathon, and the number of participants in their twenties has more than doubled compared to last year.

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On social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, the number of running influencers is rapidly increasing. These influencers are gaining popularity by sharing running-focused lifestyles or selling training programs.

The issue is that some influencers are encouraging beginners to adopt excessive exercise routines. Experts warn that simply following online content without taking into account one's own fitness level or physical condition can actually increase the risk of injury.

Johnson said, "Young people want to look cool and healthy by copying videos they see online," but added, "At the same time, they tend to underestimate the physical strain that running puts on the body." He continued, "There is a strong desire to achieve quick results rather than slowly building up the basics."

In fact, some running influencers post messages suggesting that people should keep running even when experiencing pain. One influencer uploaded a video of an all-out sprint accompanied by the phrase, "Pain is temporary, but the results are forever." Another TikToker said, "The reason I keep running is because I know I can overcome the pain."

Regarding this, Johnson explained, "There has been an increase in cases where people with little to no exercise experience suddenly jump into marathon training," adding, "As a result, overuse injuries such as knee, shin, and lower back pain have increased significantly." However, he stressed that long-distance running itself is not inherently dangerous, emphasizing the importance of adequate preparation and a gradual approach. He also advised incorporating strength training, sufficient sleep, hydration, and a balanced diet.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.