Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rapid growth and transformation of the marathon industry in China, highlighting the increasing participation of middle-aged individuals and the evolving nature of marathon events and related businesses [4][10][40]. Industry Growth - The number of marathon events in China has surged from 134 in 2015 to 1,828 in 2019, and is projected to reach 749 events with a total participation of 7.04 million in 2024, averaging about 9,400 participants per event [10][12]. - The total number of participants has increased from 1.5 million to 7.12 million over the same period, indicating a growth of over 12 times in just five years [10]. Registration and Participation - Popular marathons now often use a pre-registration and lottery system, with the Shanghai Marathon reporting a registration of 356,589 participants and a selection rate of only 7.2%, which can drop to around 3% when considering various reserved spots [11][12]. - Alternative ways to secure a spot include purchasing charity entries, which can cost significantly more than standard registration fees, with the Beijing Marathon's charity spots priced at 2,000 yuan and the Shanghai Marathon's at 5,000 yuan [16][17]. Equipment and Spending - The marathon industry has created a demand for specialized running gear, with brands like HOKA and On focusing on high-performance shoes that cater to serious runners [26][28]. - The article notes that the average age of marathon participants is primarily between 30 and 39 years, with a significant portion of wealth concentrated in this demographic, which drives spending on running gear and training [29]. Training and Coaching - Many participants are now hiring personal trainers and pace runners (referred to as "private hares") to help them achieve specific race goals, with costs ranging from hundreds to thousands of yuan [30][32]. - The demand for coaching services reflects a broader trend of middle-aged individuals seeking to maintain physical fitness and personal achievement through running [40]. Social and Psychological Aspects - The marathon has become a form of social currency, with participation seen as a status symbol among middle-class individuals [22][24]. - The article suggests that for many, running a marathon is less about the race itself and more about proving personal resilience and maintaining a sense of control in their lives [40][42].