Core Insights - The report highlights the growing "road running economy" in China, driven by low participation barriers and high autonomy, making it a popular choice for public fitness [1][49][51] - A comprehensive study covering over 30,000 questionnaires reveals the consumption habits and economic characteristics of road runners in China [2] Group 1: Market Growth and Participation - In 2024, the total number of road running events in China is projected to reach 749, with a total participation of approximately 7.05 million, nearly matching pre-pandemic levels [4][5] - The average annual direct and indirect consumption of participants in various road running events is estimated at 13,444 yuan, which is 3.6 times higher than non-participants [3] Group 2: Spending Patterns - The average total expenditure for participants in certified full and half marathons increased from 13,701 yuan in 2023 to 14,141 yuan in 2024, reflecting a 26% growth in total consumption [7] - Participants who engage in long-distance events (full and half marathons) show significantly higher spending, with those participating in both types averaging 19,766 yuan in 2024 [8] Group 3: Indirect Economic Impact - Direct consumption from certified marathon and half-marathon participants is projected to rise from 8.2 billion yuan in 2023 to 9.8 billion yuan in 2024, a 20% increase, while indirect consumption is expected to grow from 5 billion yuan to 6.9 billion yuan, a 38% increase [14] - The average spending for participants increases with the duration of their stay for events, with those staying five days spending over 29,000 yuan [11] Group 4: Demographic Insights - Runners aged 60 and above exhibit the highest spending power, with an average total consumption of 18,872 yuan in 2024, significantly higher than younger age groups [33][36] - The gender spending gap is narrowing, with female runners' average spending at 12,279 yuan and male runners at 12,334 yuan in 2024 [26] Group 5: Social Engagement and Community - Runners who actively share their training and event experiences on social media platforms tend to have higher spending levels, with those sharing multiple times daily averaging 18,206 yuan compared to 8,774 yuan for those who do not share [42][44] - Participation in running clubs and groups significantly boosts spending, with group participants averaging 16,824 yuan compared to 9,767 yuan for non-participants [45][46]