Running is often celebrated as one of the most inclusive sports. All you need is a pair of shoes, and you’re off, right? The reality is more complicated. While the running industry has made strides in recent years, the lack of diversity—particularly in leadership, sponsorships, and race participation—remains a major issue. If you're a white man in this space, you might not see the problem firsthand. That’s not because it doesn’t exist, but because the system has been built in a way that works for you.
If you care about the sport and want to make it better for everyone, here’s how you can start learning about the gaps in representation and what you can do about it.
Start with Research
The first step is understanding the history and current state of diversity in running. Books like Running While Black by Alison Mariella Désir and Black Marathoners by Derrick Woodson shed light on the barriers that Black runners have faced for decades. Reports from the Running Industry Diversity Coalition and the Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport (TIDES) provide hard data on where the industry still falls short.
Look at race results. Who’s at the front of the pack? Who’s on the start line at all? Many events struggle to attract a diverse field because the culture of running—especially road racing—has catered to a specific demographic for a long time.
Listen to Runners Who Experience the Gaps
It’s one thing to read about the lack of diversity in running. It’s another to hear directly from people who have navigated these challenges. Follow athletes, coaches, and organizations that highlight underrepresented voices. Some groups to check out:
- Black Girls RUN! – A national organization creating space for Black women in running
- Native Women Run – A community amplifying Indigenous women in the sport
- Latinos Run – Encouraging more Latino representation in running events
Podcasts and interviews are another great way to learn. Listen to discussions about the intersection of race and running rather than assuming the sport is a level playing field for all.
Get Involved Beyond Your Own Running
If you want to see change, be part of it. Get involved with running groups that focus on inclusion. Show up for events that highlight diverse communities. Volunteer for programs that bring running into underserved neighborhoods.
It’s also worth looking at who benefits most from sponsorships and leadership positions in the industry. Many major brands still prioritize white male athletes and decision-makers. That doesn’t mean those individuals don’t work hard or deserve recognition, but it does mean that others are often overlooked simply because they don’t fit the mold of what brands have traditionally invested in.
Advocate for Change in Your Own Running Circles
If you’re part of a local running club, a racing team, or even just an online community, start conversations about representation. When races lack diversity, ask why. If brands continue to sponsor the same types of athletes, call attention to it. These conversations can be uncomfortable, but they’re necessary if we want the running community to be as welcoming as we like to believe it is.
This isn’t about guilt. It’s about awareness, action, and creating a space where more people feel like they belong. Running should be for everyone, not just those who have historically had access to the best opportunities.
Work With Me
As an Indigenous coach, I’ve seen firsthand how the running world can do better. I work with runners of all backgrounds, helping them build confidence, strength, and endurance while also acknowledging the systemic challenges that still exist in this sport. If you want to grow as an athlete while also deepening your understanding of what it means to be part of a more inclusive running community, I’d love to work with you.
Reach out, ask questions, and be open to learning. The sport gets better when we all do.
