Performing Athleticism: Social Media and the Image of Running

OpinionsPerforming Athleticism: Social Media and the Image of RunningWhile social media has made running more visible and connected runners through online communities, its idealized portrayal of the sport can create expectations that make beginners feel they must look the part before they can participate.Reading Time: 3 minutesBy Zahra KumarIssue 5, Volume 117 || 2026-2027One-two, one-two, one-two. I skirt to the side to avoid a pair of runners coming up on my left. My backpack jostles as I watch their matching Lululemon shorts and slick-back ponytails jog into the distance. Stepping back into the center of the sidewalk, I sigh as yet another set of footsteps comes up on my right. I repeat my routine of skirting to the side, glancing at the group of runners with uniform transparent water bottles and athletic running shoes. Since restarting my walk home from school over the last month, I can’t help but notice the sheer number of runners I encounter.

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