[Date: Recent/File]

[Voiceover]

As the starting gun fires, a journey of fatigue and excitement lays ahead, propelling runners to reach the finish line.

Running enthusiasts were drawn to over 40 marathon events across China on the weekend of March 30 to 31, and for many this isn't just about competition, but a way to live healthier.

[Soundbite]

Li Bo, Running enthusiast:

"In 2013, during a physical examination, I discovered health issues including kidney stones. This prompted me to start running for weight loss, gradually progressing from three to five kilometers until I could run ten kilometers, and eventually, half and full marathons."

[Soundbite]

Lyu Fei, Running enthusiast:

"In 2020, there were a growing number of runners around me when I started participating in marathons across the country. At that time, It made me feel that people are more and more aware of their health."

[Voiceover]

Marathons have also integrated into the tourism sector. The recent Wuxi Marathon attracted a staggering 266,000 participants from 48 countries and regions, setting a new record for Chinese marathon registrations. This influx of runners fueled a 45.5 percent increase in local consumption, totaling approximately 39.48 million US dollars.

[Soundbite]

Yuan Weiqiang, Deputy Director, Wuxi Sports Bureau:

"In the 2024 Wuxi Marathon, 72 percent of participants came from outside the city, injecting vitality and driving consumption."

[Voiceover]

According to the "2023 China Road Running Races Blue Book," road running activities in China are flourishing.

In 2023 alone, there were 699 road running events with over 6 million participants.

Notably, the number of full marathon finishers increased by 142,700 compared to 2022, reaching a cumulative total of 641,700.

At least 2.5 million individuals nationwide have completed half or full marathons, indicating the sport's role to promote national fitness and consumption.

[Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]