Young Aussies swap swiping for sprinting to escape dating app burnout
Young Australians are rushing to find love in the healthiest of ways, rejecting online dating apps for a more traditional meet-cute at local clubs.
Once upon a time, trying to find a partner was as simple as going to a bar or meeting someone through friends.
In the 2010s, society moved into the digital age and dating became a hyper-online experience.
According to RUNHUB, there are more than 500 active running clubs operating across the country.
Frustrated with the “transactional” nature of online dating, young Australians have tied up and raced to join running clubs to scout for potential matches.
Josephine Farfalla, entrepreneur and founder of lifestyle and clothing brand Bedda Vita, said young people choose to join running clubs because they “desire real face-to-face connection.”
“A running club gives people something to do together, so there’s less pressure sitting across from someone on a first date or trying to strike up a conversation out of the blue. You already have a shared interest and conversations happen naturally,” she said.
She revealed that her friends tell her that looking for love on dating apps is “exhausting” and “transactional.”
“I think a lot of people are experiencing dating app fatigue and are looking for more authentic ways to meet people,” Ms. Farfalla said.
She runs creative workshops, cultural events and social gatherings through her business, and said young people are “looking for spaces where they can really disconnect from their phones and connect with others in a real way.”
Hytch Private Search matchmaker Amanda Harrigan said there’s been a significant shift in how Gen Z and Millennials approach both dating and socializing.
“After years of swiping, ghosting and trying to build relationships through a screen, many singles are experiencing dating app burnout,” she said.
He noted that the “noticeable shift” towards healthier, active lifestyles was a factor in why young people were choosing wellbeing-focused experiences.
“Running clubs bring together the best of both worlds. People are doing something they truly enjoy while meeting others in a relaxed, low-pressure environment,” Ms Harrigan said.
He also touched on the impact running clubs have on young people looking for companionship in their early to mid-20s.
“One of the biggest challenges for people in their 20s isn’t just finding a partner… many young adults are working remotely, moving to new cities or spending more time online than previous generations,” Ms. Harrigan said.
“Running clubs and other activity-based communities give people the opportunity to connect with others with common interests, whether they are looking for friendship, romance, or both.”
Ms Farfalla had a similar perspective and said running clubs could have a profound impact on young people seeking meaningful relationships and friendships.
Although Ms Farfalla has taken part in running, she is not a member of a running club but would “definitely consider joining one” in the future to develop real connections.
“Not necessarily with the intention of dating, but because it’s a great way to meet like-minded people. I think if you meet someone naturally through a shared hobby, there’s already a stronger foundation than starting an online friendship with a stranger,” he said.
Ms Farfalla said running clubs were a growing movement, particularly in cities such as Melbourne, Sydney, the Gold Coast and Adelaide.
“Young people place greater value on community and shared experiences, whether it be clubs, walking groups, creative workshops or social events,” he said.
“People want to put down their phones and have real relationships, and I think that’s a really positive change.”
