Why I Run: Real People Share Their Stories on Global Running Day

Every year on the first Wednesday of June, runners around the globe unite in motion, reflection, and celebration for Global Running Day. It’s not just a day to log miles — it’s a day to reconnect with why we run.

For some, running is a way to stay healthy. For others, it’s therapy, purpose, or rebellion. Behind every pair of running shoes is a story — and today, we share a few of them.

From early morning joggers to marathon finishers, from teenagers to grandparents, these real voices remind us that running is personal, powerful, and profoundly human.

“I Run Because I Survived”

– Maya N., 38, Breast Cancer Survivor, India

“After chemotherapy, I could barely walk around my apartment. But I told myself: if I can walk, I can jog. If I can jog, I can run.

On Global Running Day last year, I ran 2 kilometers. It wasn’t fast. It wasn’t graceful. But I cried the whole way — because I never thought I’d feel that strong again.

Now, I run because I survived — and because I’m still here.”

“I Run for My Son, Who Can’t”

– James P., 44, Father & Special Needs Advocate, UK

“My son has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair. He’ll never run. But every step I take, I carry him with me.

On Global Running Day, I push his wheelchair in local events. We high-five people, laugh, and celebrate the fact that movement — in any form — is a gift.”

“I Run to Feel Like Myself Again”

– Linh V., 29, New Mom, Vietnam

“After giving birth, I lost myself in diapers, exhaustion, and postpartum anxiety. One morning, I put on my old sneakers and walked. The next week, I jogged.

I run now not to escape my life — but to return to myself. It’s the 30 minutes of the day that belong only to me.

Global Running Day helped me feel part of something bigger — like all the women reclaiming space for their bodies and minds.”

“I Run to Remember”

– Miguel R., 61, Retired Teacher, Argentina

“My wife passed away five years ago. We used to walk together every morning. I started running because I didn’t know what else to do with the silence.

Now I run the same paths we used to walk — but I imagine she’s still beside me. Every step is a memory.

I don’t run fast. But I run with love.”

“I Run Because I Was Told I Couldn’t”

– Aisha M., 17, High School Student, USA

“I used to hate gym class. I was always picked last, always the slowest. One teacher said, ‘Maybe running just isn’t your thing.’

That lit a fire. I started jogging at night, secretly. One minute, then five.

On Global Running Day last year, I ran my first 5K — and I didn’t stop once.

I run because no one defines my limits but me.”

“I Run for Peace of Mind”

– Markus S., 35, Software Developer, Germany

“My job is mentally exhausting. I stare at screens all day. I overthink everything. But running shuts off the noise.

There’s something about the rhythm — breath, stride, pavement — that brings me back to center.

On Global Running Day, I run without a watch, no app. Just me and my breath. It’s freedom.”

“I Run for My Future”

– Sofia T., 23, University Student, Kenya

“Where I come from, girls don’t always get to dream. Running gave me confidence. It gave me community.

I joined a local running club. I met mentors. I earned a scholarship.

When I run, I feel powerful. On Global Running Day, I’m reminded that every step is for the girl I was — and the woman I’m becoming.”

What These Stories Teach Us

Across continents and cultures, these runners remind us that:

• Running is not about pace — it’s about purpose.
• You don’t have to look like a “runner” to be one.
• Every run has a reason — and that reason deserves to be honored.

Global Running Day isn’t about how far or fast you go. It’s about celebrating the courage it takes to start, and the resilience it takes to keep going.

How You Can Share Your Story

This June 4, whether it’s your first step or your hundredth run:

• Post your story using the hashtag #WhyIRun
• Tag a friend or family member who inspires you
• Join a local event or virtual challenge
• Write your own “Why I Run” card and share it with your run group

Running has the power to heal, connect, and transform — but it’s the stories behind the movement that inspire the world.

Final Thought

You never know who needs to hear your story.
You never know how your quiet morning run might give someone the courage to take their first step.
You never know how powerful you already are.

So this Global Running Day, don’t just run — run with purpose.
Run for your why. Run for your story. Run because you can.

And never, ever forget: you belong here.