Satire or Not, This Viral Post About Marathons and Midlife Hits a Nerve
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
A satirical article from Double Bay Today is currently making its rounds on social media. The headline reads, “Psychologists call for the term ‘mid-life crisis’ to include anyone over 30 y.o. who signs up for a marathon or half-marathon.” It’s meant to be a joke, but it’s resonating with a lot of people for a reason.
Across cities and suburbs alike, more adults in their 30s, 40s, and 50s are trading traditional midlife tropes for something much more intense. Run clubs are thriving. Half and full marathon registrations are climbing. Fitness races like HYROX are drawing record numbers, particularly among those in midlife who want to test their limits and rediscover a sense of vitality.
A feature published by The Globe and Mail on September 5, 2024, written by Shawna Cohen, explored this shift, following individuals who marked milestone birthdays with triathlons and endurance races. One quote in the article, from Dr. Frank Young, a professor of sociology at the University of Alberta, helps explain the deeper shift. “Endurance sports offer a compelling structure for identity reconstruction. People use physical milestones like a first marathon as a way to mark personal growth and reclaim agency.”
There is strong research to back this up. A 2017 meta-analysis in the Journal of Health Psychology found that middle-aged adults who took on endurance training reported higher life satisfaction and lower levels of depressive symptoms compared to sedentary counterparts.
Experts point to a mix of practical and emotional reasons behind the rise. Many people in midlife have more flexibility in their schedules, the financial means to invest in training and equipment, and a growing awareness of the long-term benefits of staying active. Endurance events also provide a measurable goal, a training roadmap, and often, a built-in community.
What may once have been called a midlife crisis is being redefined. For many, these pursuits are not about grasping at youth but leaning into a new chapter with purpose and strength. A half-marathon might not solve everything, but it can create a meaningful sense of control, confidence, and momentum.
The joke may land because it’s not far off the mark. Signing up for a race could be a cry for help. More often, it is a declaration. I’m here. I’m capable. And I’m not done yet.
Credit: @doublebaytoday