According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, recent unemployment levels across the US have had a positive impact on marathon, road race and triathlon attendance levels and race results.
The article notes that ‘Americans might be poorer, but they certainly aren’t slower. With the economy in the doldrums, more people are discovering that without those 12-hour workdays, they’re able to pursue fitness goals like never before. Marathons, triathlons and road races are filling up in record time.’
In addition to increased race attendance, the Wall Street Journal cites statistics pointing to an increase in race performance. Coupled with increased participation levels and thus competition, a lack of available employment has offered more time for training. In turn, with increased training, faster times are being recorded.
The full article can be found at the Wall Street Journal online.
