With social media constantly at our fingertips, we can easily be swept up in the endless scroll of viral TikTok videos, trending hashtags, and perfectly curated Instagram posts. But, in the midst of these digital creations, social media has the ability to also foster community, productive conversation, and empathy. Let me explain.
As a runner, almost nothing gets me crying quicker than inspirational marathon videos. Seeing runners cross the finish line, simultaneously wearing a face of pride and pain, knowing that they just accomplished a feat only 1% of the population can say they have done - safe to say it gets me every time. Meanwhile, videos surface of proud parents, friends, and random spectators, all gathering together in their respective communities to show support for loved ones and total strangers alike. There is truly something beautiful in people taking the time to come together and show ultimate camaraderie, especially in today's political climate. To me, it gives the phrase "humans being humans" extra meaning.
Now, you may be wondering where I am going with all of this. Well, if you hadn't heard already, yesterday was the 47th Annual Chicago Marathon. When first thinking about the topic I wanted to choose for this project, I truthfully had no idea. Social media trends and conversations change so rapidly, and while I wanted to focus on something happening in real time, engaging with people across platforms, I also wanted to stay authentic to the type of content I find inspiring - what I think we need more of right now. So, when I opened TikTok this morning to a flood of marathon videos, I thought this would be the perfect avenue to explore.
While I plan to look at the type of conversation happening right now regarding the marathon itself, I understand that it is a niche community, and therefore will also look at how the running community as a whole is engaging with social media.
The three unique points I will be focusing on include the Chicago Marathon from a course and runner experience, the community engagement from the race, and the running communities' presence on social media altogether.
The Chicago Marathon: Emphasis on the Course and Runner Experience
Upon engaging with content related to the Chicago Marathon, one of the initial trends I saw included videos that highlighted the actual race course and the overall runner experience. This trend focused on the runner's perspective and first-hand experience, giving insight into the race for other prospective marathon goers.
Examples of this trend include runners documenting each mile of their race, allowing for a real-time look into the strength and dedication required to complete the big 26.2. Other examples include runners sharing the food and gear used to prepare for the race, as well as what they used on race day. I also saw videos of runners sharing course details, giving viewers a "what to expect" perspective. This area of content creation is where I saw the majority of "influencer" posts. Among those who created videos from the marathon were former NFL player Isaac Rochell and running and lifestyle influencers Rylee Jade and Samantha Mac.
Rylee Jade shares Chicago Marathon course details and helpful race day tips on her TikTok
The Chicago Marathon: Fostering Community Engagement
While I love engaging with running content creators, arguably, some of the most heartwarming content to come out of marathon days are the posts that focus on the spectators. From hilarious motivational signs to emotional family reunions, these types of posts speak volumes.
This trend highlighted the crowd-favorite race-day signs, the heartfelt encounters among friends, and the quirky moments unique to marathons. While "influencer" posts don't usually originate from this type of trend, viewers are able to see in real time a community coming together and showing up for one another.
The videos above are just a couple of examples highlighting the sweet moments that come out of marathon days. While marathons are a day dedicated to running, it is also a day to be reminded that humanity is inherently good and that our communities are still capable of coming together when it counts.
Running Communities' Presence on Social Media
Now that we've explored the dialogue on social media regarding the Chicago Marathon, let's broaden the scope and look at how the running community as a whole is engaging with media.
While running is a popular sport and hobby, there are many different subcommunities on social media allowing for runners of all backgrounds to find their pack. Whether you're running for sport or leisure, fast or slow, young or old, running communities are vast, and their presence on social media is growing.
While there are many running communities present on social media, running content creator Kate Mackz is doing something special with her channel. Combining her love of running with her passion for storytelling, Mackz has amassed nearly 800,000 followers on TikTok through her running interview series. Asking people on the streets of New York City to run with her while being asked various questions about their lives, Mackz has bridged the gap between running and journalism, a blend both unique and engaging.
Conclusion
As the world of social media continues to grow, it is important to engage with media that inspires you on a daily basis. While running may not be for everyone, I hope you can find a pocket of the internet that you find exciting and that can foster a space for genuine connection and community.
