Archive · 5 Oct 2026
India’s Running Revolution Puts Health and Wellbeing Ahead of Medals
More people in India are running to feel healthier, not just to win races.
A report about runners in the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon found that many see mental discipline as part of training.
Many also said they used less medication after starting a regular running routine.
Runners say running can help them feel calm and manage stress.
It can also encourage people to build routines and make healthier choices.
Elite runner Lili Das says training requires discipline, taking care of food and recovery, and continuing after setbacks.
The article describes running as part of a wider change in how people think about looking after their health.
Running in India is increasingly being embraced for health and wellbeing, not only competition or records.
A Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon participant report found 97.8% of surveyed runners considered mental discipline integral to training.
The report said 93.1% of surveyed runners reported reduced medication use after adopting a running routine.
Runners interviewed described benefits including calm, confidence, stress relief, better fitness and healthier daily habits.
Elite runner Lili Das said training also involves routine, nutrition, recovery and persistence through injuries and setbacks.
- Who
- Indian recreational runners, Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon participants, and interviewees Vivek Singh, Virat and Lili Das.
- What
- Running is increasingly being taken up for physical health, mental wellbeing and quality of life, rather than solely for competition.
- When
- The article describes a current, ongoing shift; no specific date is given.
- Where
- India, including Delhi.
- Why
- Runners and the event promoter cite benefits such as improved fitness, calm, discipline and stress relief.
Competition-focused running
Health-focused running
Purpose of running
Competition-focused running
Running has traditionally been associated with elite athletes, podium finishes and competitive sport.
Health-focused running
The article describes a growing emphasis on running for health, mental wellbeing and everyday quality of life.
Measuring progress
Competition-focused running
Competitive running emphasizes race times, medals and records.
Health-focused running
Many participants value consistency, discipline and personal wellbeing, with the finish line no longer the only goal.
- Survey
- Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon participant report
- Mental discipline
- 97.8% of surveyed runners said it was integral to their training.
- Medication use
- 93.1% reported reduced medication usage after adopting a running routine.
- Event distances mentioned
- 10K, half marathon and full marathon
- Vivek Singh's role
- Joint Managing Director at Procam International, which promotes the VDHM
- Virat
- A 64-year-old businessman from Delhi who described running's personal benefits.