Taiwan Hits the Ground Running with a Flourishing Fitness Scene
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Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Debuts in Taipei
TAIPEI, Taiwan — Thousands of runners braved the rain this weekend for the debut of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series in Taipei, marking the city’s entry into an international series that combines racing with live music.
More than 6,000 participants hit the streets as local bands played alongside the route, creating a high-energy atmosphere that echoed the city’s growing enthusiasm for running.
“The event is really nice. There are so many family-run events like this, big and small. And we also participate in a lot of running events throughout the year. I think it’s great and really enjoyable,” said one Taipei-based runner.
The Rock ‘n’ Roll series is part of a broader trend: Taiwan has seen a surge in road races, trail running events and fitness-related activities, drawing both local athletes and international participants.
“I fell in love with running in the mountains around Taipei because actually you guys have incredible mountains here. So I really enjoy. And yeah, I think over the years the community is growing,” said a French runner living in the capital.
Beyond the finish line, runners say the sport is also building stronger community ties and promoting public health.
“It’s really amazing! I noticed more people are joining running groups now and many professional coaches are helping train runners. It’s a big incentive for public health. National health is also about the country’s strength,” another Taipei resident said.
Marie Li Yu, known to her run club as Yuyu, is one of several local organizers helping the sport grow at the grassroots level.
“It makes you get out of your comfort zone, meet people that you might not meet outside. And also, what’s really nice about running club is, like, you all at least have something in common. You enjoy probably being active, running or just meeting new people,” she said.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a major slowdown for road races and marathons, but numbers are now rebounding.
“Due to the pandemic, many events were affected. According to the association’s statistics, events are gradually coming back. Back to nearly 90% [of pre-pandemic numbers] by the end of 2024,” said Tseng Tzu-yen of the Chinese Taipei Road Running Association.
As the sport rebounds, the government is stepping up support, viewing running events as both a boost to public wellness and a way to promote local tourism.
From international events like the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series to neighborhood run clubs, running is more than a pastime for many in Taiwan. It's becoming a vibrant social movement—where music, motion and a sense of belonging come together on the city’s streets.
