The Energy of the Mass
Running is often an individual sport. But in a city run, this isolation transforms into pure collective energy. When thousands of feet touch the ground at the same time, a vibration is created that you feel deep within.
Studies show that perceived exertion (RPE) decreases in a group. You run faster, further, and easier, carried by the euphoria of the spectators and fellow runners. That's the "Social Facilitation Effect" in action.
Asphalt Therapy
The surface is hard but honest. Urban running requires different equipment than trail running. Cushioning is king. Your joints need protection from the impact forces of concrete.
But the city also offers visual stimuli that keep the brain awake. Instead of monotonous forest paths, you have to navigate – traffic lights, curves, pedestrians. This "cognitive running" keeps the brain young and promotes neuroplasticity similar to a video game – only in real life.