Running across Europe: The Rise and Size of one of the Largest Sport

In this review of Running across Europe: The Rise and Size of one of the Largest Sport Markets the authors Jeroen Scheerder, Koen Breedveld and Julie Borgers present a focused academic study of the contemporary European running scene. The bottom line: this volume is best for policy makers, sports marketers and researchers who need a data-driven, cross-country analysis of participation trends and market structure. Its single biggest reason to buy is the depth of comparative evidence across 11 European countries that links participation, cost and public health implications in one accessible collection.

Key Features

• Cross-country data: Detailed analysis from 11 European countries provides context for understanding how running participation varies by region and policy environment.
• Participation motives: The book explores the reasons people run, helping planners and marketers tailor programs and outreach to different runner profiles.
• Market sizing: Clear coverage of the rise of the running market gives readers insight into the main commercial and organisational players shaping the sector.
• Policy focus: The volume sets out policy challenges and opportunities, which is useful for local governments and public health officials considering sport interventions.
• Health and cost analysis: Discussion of participation, cost and health links provides a balanced view for stakeholders weighing investment in running initiatives.

Who It's For

This book is aimed at researchers, sports policy makers, event organizers and marketing professionals who need empirical evidence and comparative perspective on the European running market. Its data-led chapters are most valuable for readers designing participation strategies or assessing the economic footprint of running.

Readers seeking a how-to guide for coaching, training plans, or consumer product reviews should look elsewhere, as the collection concentrates on policy, market structure and participation dynamics rather than practical training advice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides comprehensive comparative data across multiple countries, which strengthens cross-national conclusions.
• Balances market analysis with public policy discussion, useful for both marketers and officials.
• Addresses both participation motives and health implications, offering multi-dimensional insight.

Cons

• Not intended as a practical training or consumer guide, so it may feel academic for casual readers.

Specifications

Title	Running across Europe: The Rise and Size of one of the Largest Sport Markets
Authors	Jeroen Scheerder, Koen Breedveld, Julie Borgers
Scope	Analysis of running markets and participation across 11 European countries
Focus areas	Participation, market size, motives, policy challenges, cost and health
Intended audience	Researchers, policy makers, sports marketers
Category	Books; Public Affairs & Policy; Social Policy

Our Verdict

For anyone working at the intersection of sport policy, public health and commercial strategy, this collection offers strong, evidence-based perspective on the contemporary European running market and is good value as a reference for comparative research. Its focused scope and country-level data make it especially useful to planners and analysts rather than casual readers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book use primary data?
The collection analyses in-depth data across 11 European countries, synthesising findings for comparative insight.

Who contributed to the research?
The volume is authored and edited by Jeroen Scheerder, Koen Breedveld and Julie Borgers and draws on research across the included countries.

Is this suitable for event organizers?
Yes, event organizers will find the market and participation analysis useful for planning and targeting, though operational guidance is limited.