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Marie Claire
Marie Claire
Lifestyle
Ally Head

People are paying "mules" to boost their mileage on Strava, which leaves me asking - is social media ruining running?

Directly below shot of female athlete with curly hair against clear sky.

If you're a runner or cardio-lover inspired by the recent boom in interest in the workout, you'll have noticed the many trends to hit the sport in recent months. Whether it's everyone and their Aunt speeding through races in compression sleeves and reflective shades or Sunday long runs complete with hydration vest and carbon plate running shoes, social media is awash with people dedicating their weekends to speedwork training and 10-milers that finish at the nearest 'Gram-worthy coffee spot.

The latest trend? People paying others to run for them so that they appear fitter or faster online. And now, said Strava "mules", as they're being called, are sharing their money-making experience online.

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