Is Running the New Tinder?

Back in the day, Tinder was the go-to platform for meeting people, then Instagram took over, where we slid into each other’s DMs.

Now, virtual meet-ups are a thing of the past.

Are you looking for someone to cook for you? Go run. Looking for a boyfriend or girlfriend? Go run. Need a sexual partner? Go run. Want to expand your social circle? Go run.

Running has become more than just a sport in Namibia, especially in Windhoek.

While running was once seen as just another sport, it has evolved into something completely different.

While its core elements are a test of endurance, discipline and mental strength, it’s no longer just about that.

From my observations, the trend is spreading worldwide, gaining more traction each year as more people join the running community.

The conversations usually begin after the run. What happens when the race is over?

How people choose to socialise and unwind after these events is another aspect that, in my view, turned it into a dating site.

The post-run mingling, camaraderie, the gatherings and the celebrations – these interactions are what has turned it into a dating site.

The shared sense of accomplishment has created the perfect environment for unexpected connections.

Yes, running is a great way to boost mood and reduce stress, and it also improves cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart and enhancing endurance. It’s a great sport – no doubts.

And beyond the physical benefits, running enhances mental clarity, clearing the mind and improving focus.

According to statistics from a reliable source, the running community consists of approximately 60% women and 40% men.

A guy can walk away with one and a half phone numbers.

Strangely enough, it seems like every corporation has a marathon these days.

The platform to meet repetitively has been created by society.

For those of us who aren’t runners, terms like pace, half-marathon, ultra and electrolytes are quickly becoming part of our vocabulary.

In addition, marathons and running events have become the new social hubs of Namibia.

Whether you’re a serious athlete or just there for the vibes, these events have transformed into the country’s latest meet-and-greet platforms, where friendships are formed, maybe business deals are closed, and a strong sense of community is built.

Go to Daan Viljoen on a Saturday morning and see for yourself.

However, the pressure of attending events in the running community is intense; it feels almost mandatory to be present at all of them.

One weekend, everyone is at Swakopmund; the next, they are in Windhoek; and before you know it, they’re off to Cape Town.

Very soon we will see people go for the Austin Marathon.

I often find myself thinking about the costs involved in participating in all these events. Travel, accommodation, registration fees, gear – it all adds up exponentially.

Yet, despite the financial strain, the running community has the budget for it.

That said, I want to take a moment to acknowledge and commend all runners out there.

Kudos to each and every one of you. You could have chosen to stay home, doing nothing, or spend your time out drinking, but instead, you chose to lace up your running shoes and push yourselves.

That is commendable.

As an athlete myself, I understand the dedication it takes to train, the satisfaction of seeing progress and, most importantly, the incredible feeling of crossing the finish line.

Running is a sport to be appreciated for what it is, not what it could be.

To all runners, whether veterans or just starting – well done. Keep moving and keep the spirit alive.

If you’re a true runner, let running be your only reason to run. I salute you. And to those treating the sport like a dating site – maybe it’s time to find another hobby.

– Meneer_SK is an advocate for men’s grooming and all matters relating to men. Follow him on Instagram @Meneer_SK