The 1979 Jogging Boom... How Running Took Over

Step back in time with this vintage archival news clip from 1979, capturing the moment when running and jogging became a national obsession in Canada. Meet the Wilkie Creek runners, a group of enthusiasts who gather several times a week to warm up and enjoy a social jog. This was a time when running wasn't just a hobby-it was a booming market, with businesses rushing to cater to millions of joggers.
Discover the unique culture of runners who drank special lemonade, devoured 'Runner's World' magazine, and fueled a massive industry for athletic shoes and gear. Learn about the iconic Adidas running shoes and the challenges of keeping up with the demand in Canada due to import quotas.
From special athletic stores popping up to the government's involvement in regulating shoe imports, this clip highlights the fascinating intersection of fitness, fashion, and commerce during the late 70s jogging boom.
---
➤ Stream full episodes, for free, on CBC Gem:
gem.cbc.ca
➤ Subscribe: ‪@CBC‬
---
About CBC Gem:
CBC Gem offers the full programming slate, from drama to documentaries to sports. CBC Gem is available for free via Apple TV and Google Chromecast and as an App for iOS, tvOS, Fire TV, Android TV, Android phones and tablets, LG and Samsung Smart TVs, Roku, Xbox One/S/X, and and online at gem.cbc.ca
---
About CBC:
Welcome to the entertainment side of CBC, Canada’s public broadcaster. CBC is dedicated to creating content with original voices that inspire and entertain. Watch sneak peeks and trailers, behind-the-scenes footage, full episodes, original web series, digital exclusives and more.
Connect with CBC Online:
TikTok: / cbc
Instagram: / cbc
Facebook: / cbc
Twitter: / cbc
---
We encourage thoughtful comments and respectful discussion. Before commenting, please review our community guidelines: www.cbc.ca/abou...

[@marathonnh]

Started running in 1973. First pair of running shoes were the Adidas Gazelles in your thumbnail. Every part of this was so familiar. Still running and racing today!

[@HaiLeQuang]

@@marathonnh The Gazelle :))) My Gazelle is for clubbing and social events. How things change!

[@jackdaniels2905]

My dad always liked to jog on country back roads.

[@jimmason8502]

I was one of those 2million "joggers" they quoted and let me tell you it was more than $100 a year I spent on shoes alone. I'm glad the retro shoe look is back but the current crop of retro running shoes, Nike in particular, are not built half as well as they were in the late 70s and 80s.

[@cycleguy1943]

It started for me in ‘83…running was not only for exercise..it was my SANCTUARY!!!

[@MrTraveller.]

This is excellent

[@fecardona]

1:38 “Prices ranging up to 60 dollars a pair”. $60 CAD from 1979 are equivalent to $238 CAD today. Therefore, the pricing of those shoes was equivalent to that of a supertrainer (NB SuperComp v3, Asics Magicspeed 4, Saucony Speed 4 or Adidas Takumi Sen 10, et al). Or a previous generation supershoe on discount today. Very interesting, the shoe was still an expensive tool back then.

[@HaiLeQuang]

Yes. adjusted for inflation, the price of running shoes now is not that bad.

[@paulnickson8734]

Love those high socks and short shorts!😂

[@Mark.G475]

Great 1970s shoes!!

[@jt.8144]

Good days!! YOU STILL CAN DO THAT TODAY!

[@user-yg1dg6xm2g]

I haven't seen an Athletes World location for quite some time.

[@dakoota3332]

Those shoes back in the day… ouch… I’m using them now as a fashion statement, but running on them now? Hell no!!

[@jt.8144]

2024. THE ULTRAMARATHON CRAZE.

[@GTE_Channel]

I'm on-board 😂