Running in Rio: places to run and enjoy the city
The Marvelous City has always been the perfect setting for outdoor activities, whether it’s a focused workout or exercise, or a relaxing stroll contemplating the landscape.
Have you also joined the runners’ club over the years? Every day, the number of followers of running groups, marathons and training sessions in search of the ideal pace only increases, not just in Rio, but in Brazil and all over the world! In 2024 alone, the number of running clubs increased by 109% in the country.
More than 2,800 street running events were held in Brazil in 2024, making it the most practiced sport of the year, according to Strava’s annual report. According to the platform, Brazil is the country with the second highest number of athletes, with more than 19 million.
Street running: the most popular sport in Rio de Janeiro
Certainly, one of the factors behind the success of street races, running groups and get-togethers that revolve around the sport, is belonging to a group with common motivations, where fans connect through the sport, but end up creating bonds and friendships that go beyond the boundaries of running.
So, as well as exercising their bodies, seeking to improve their quality of life and balance their well-being, runners also socialize and see training groups as the new ‘clubs’, ‘bars’ and ‘concerts’, where until recently they were the places to make friends and even meet new romances.
An example of this was the creation of the code to wear blue socks to signal that you are single and looking for new connections. The code was created by the dating app Inner Circle and has gained many followers. The search for information on blue socks increased by 200%, according to Google Trends.
Undoubtedly, the growth in the habit of running on the street has an impact on lifestyle, fashion, health and the city as a whole.
That’s why we’ve put together some valuable tips for runners. From the perfect accessories, to the best places to run in Rio, to the events scheduled for 2025. Check it all out here:
Places to run in Rio
Check out our selection of the best places to run outdoors in Rio de Janeiro. As well as exercising, you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery and feel the cool breeze on your face.
- Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, almost 8km long, is a classic destination for runners;
- Aterro do Flamengo, the scene of several street races, on Sundays and public holidays the track is exclusively for pedestrians, giving sportspeople more freedom;
- Vista Chinesa, an intense uphill course for those who enjoy high-intensity exercise in the middle of the Tijuca Forest;
- Maracanã, one of the most famous stadiums in the world has a 1.8km track around it and is a sure destination for runners from Rio;
- Ipanema and Leblon beachwalk, for those who like to run by the beach, or even on the sand. The two beaches are 4km long, with the possibility of extending the exercise to Copacabana or Leme.
Running events confirmed in Rio de Janeiro in 2025
Rio will have around 200 street races in 2025, representing 57% of the city’s sporting events.
The Rio Marathon, a classic race that attracts visitors from all over the country, has been confirmed for June 21 with the start at Leblon Beach and the finish at Aterro do Flamengo, a total of 21km.
In addition to this, there is a list of various races in Rio and we’ve listed the best tips here:
- Night Run, the night race has its first stage on June 28 and its second stage on October 25, 2025;
- Rio Maravilha Autumn Circuit, at Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon during the May 1, 2025 holiday;
- Asics Golden Run, with a 10km or 21km course, on July 13, 2025;
- Girl Power Run, a race exclusively for women on Copacabana Beach;
- Maratoninha do Rio, the children’s version of the Rio Marathon, to start the children’s vacation in style.
Running accessories
As well as seeking comfort and aesthetics, running accessories must also be functional! After all, runners want to measure their pace, heart rate and calories burned, as well as ensuring that their clothes and shoes are in line with their body’s needs.
Among the watches most used by athletes are Garmin, Polar and Apple Watch. As for the brands of sneakers that runners like the most: Nike, Adidas, Asics and New Balance.
The search for the ideal running glasses is also on the rise, so much so that major brands are launching novelties that combine comfort, style and functionality. Zerezes has just announced its sports eyewear model.
Certainly, running groups and outdoor sporting events are here to stay! For those looking for a healthy routine, a diet rich in nutrients and memorable flavors, as well as the ease of maintaining their lifestyle regardless of whether they are at home or traveling, the Arpoador and Ipanema Inn hotels are the ideal options for this public.
Valuing wellness activities, as well as a cuisine that prioritizes organic produce and fresh, coastal ingredients, the Hotel Arpoador offers guests yoga on the terrace, as well as a wellness room, the Maré Spa, exclusive beach service and bikes for cycling around the city with peace of mind.
The Ipanema Inn offers guests a complimentary gym pass, as well as footvolley and functional soccer on Ipanema beach, plus bikes, beach service and massages and therapies from the Maré Spa.
So, let’s go running together and enjoy the Marvelous City?
