The growing popularity of marathons and high-intensity fitness events in urban India has sparked a new debate online, with many questioning their rising costs and underlying purpose.
The discussion gained momentum after X user Ankit Kedia’s post pointed out the prizes at the HYROX fitness event held in Bengaluru. According to Kedia, nearly 9,000 participants attended, each paying an entry fee of approx ₹9,000 which is approx ₹8.1 million generated in a single day.
“The HYROX fitness event in Bengaluru saw around 9,000 participants ₹9,000 per person to attend which is approx ₹It earned 8.1 billion crowns in a single day. The same trend can be seen in marathons. People pay ₹3000– ₹5000 just to run for the day. Being fit is good,” Kedia wrote.
“But why do people spend so much on a one-day event? It’s less about fitness and more about validation,” he added.
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Critics call it “showing off” and commercialization
Kedia’s remarks quickly drew backlash online, with several users criticizing what they described as the growing commercialization of fitness culture.
“Glorified and attention seeking activity..nothing more!” one user wrote.
“It’s just change or pocket money for those who participate in these events. Fitness is a lifelong journey rather than a one-day show,” commented another.
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“It’s just a status symbol,” commented a third user.
“Organized Scam!! Spending 9000 a year on a gym membership can be more beneficial than a one time event!! You don’t need an event to be motivated, this event looks more like validation and show off!! People who propose at a fitness event do better together!!” one user wrote.
Supporters defend the value and effort behind the events
However, not everyone agreed with the criticism. Several users have defended such events, saying they represent the result of months of discipline rather than a one-day activity.
“I don’t think it’s fair to call it ‘just a one day event’. Having run two marathons I can say it’s months of discipline and consistency, the day of the event is just a milestone. Many runs also support charities and people enter through these or qualifying runs and not just high fees,” wrote one user.
“People spending over 9k in a nightclub on bottles and setting off fireworks on Instagram reels…at least here people are trying to be better and see how fit they really are,” commented another.
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“It was so well organized that giving 9K seems valid. And if you think it’s a one day event, try organizing it at this level… it’s months of work,” wrote a third user.
“Why judge the price? Some people fall.” ₹10k for a fancy dinner or a bottle of scotch without a second thought. Spending it at a global fitness event is just choosing a different kind of “luxury” experience. It’s about doing what you love,” added another.
The wider debate about fitness and lifestyle spending
The exchange reflects a wider divide in how people view fitness events—whether as meaningful personal milestones or expensive status-driven experiences. While some see them as symbols of discipline and success, others see them as part of an increasingly commercialized lifestyle.
