30 viral Instagram Reels made by running apps
These Instagram Reels from running apps show how to make running look fun and achievable. You'll see training tips, runner stories, and motivating moments that make people want to lace up.
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Napolify's Resources
- More than 500 viral content pieces analyzed
- Case Studies of viral accounts (Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook)
- Free Marketing Tools & Calculators
- Latest Tiktok Trends
More blog posts
- Viral Tiktok strategies for running apps
- Viral marketing trends for running apps
- Viral marketing strategies for running apps
The Digital Cable Revival, 2.6M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Name.com shows a website called "ytch.xyz" that lets you flip through YouTube videos like old cable TV channels.
The presenter demonstrates the remote control feature and channel surfing with static between channels.
The hook works because it triggers massive nostalgia.
People miss the randomness of cable TV and the simple act of channel surfing.
The video solves a modern problem - algorithm fatigue on YouTube - with an old-school solution that feels familiar and comforting.
The demonstration keeps people watching because each "channel" reveals something new. You want to see what's on CH 04, then the TV guide feature. This curiosity gap pushes watch time higher.
People would probably share this with friends who also feel trapped by YouTube's algorithm or miss the serendipity of old TV.
The Fast-R Nitro Elite 2, 51M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Running PEAK shows the PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 shoe with its weird, bulbous heel design.
The video focuses on the crisp sound of the shoe hitting the ground and close-ups of its unusual features.
The visual disruption is the main hook.
The shoe doesn't look like any normal running shoe, so it stops your scroll immediately. Your brain tries to process what it's seeing, which boosts those first crucial seconds of watch time.
The clear "thud" sound adds an ASMR-like quality that's oddly satisfying.
People would probably comment asking about the price or whether these actually make you faster.
The design is so unusual it becomes a conversation starter. It's one of the classic viral formats we have noticed - showing something that breaks expectations of how a familiar object should look.
The Interactive Resume, 1.7M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Name.com features Henry's portfolio website that starts as a command-line interface, then transitions to a 3D office desk where you can click into a virtual computer to see his actual resume.
The "wow" factor comes from the unexpected transition from simple start screen to full 3D environment.
Then the "inception" moment of zooming into the virtual computer screen creates a second surprise that keeps people hooked. It's not just showing off; it's demonstrating technical skills through the experience itself.
For anyone in tech or creative fields, this represents the holy grail of portfolio presentation. It makes other resumes look boring by comparison, which drives shares among professional communities and comments asking "how did they do that?"
The Interactive Resume Marvel, 1.7M+ views
Another Instagram Reel from Name.com, this one showcases Jesse Zhou's portfolio as a cyberpunk ramen shop built in Three.js. You can explore the 3D environment and click on different elements to see his projects displayed as beverage cans.
The gamification aspect is what makes this stick.
Instead of browsing a static website, you're exploring a world. Each click leads to a new discovery - projects as drinks, credits as an arcade machine. This pattern keeps popping up in our breakdowns of viral content.
The thematic consistency (everything fits the ramen shop aesthetic) shows attention to detail that impresses viewers.
People would share this as inspiration for their own creative projects or to show what's possible with web development.
The Street Interview Method, 1.1M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Meta for Business uses a street interview format to reveal "Top 5 creative best practices for Reels." The interviewer struggles to get answers, with people giving fake responses or suggesting "cats" as content.
The humor comes from subverting expectations.
Instead of straightforward tips, you get comedy through people's resistance to answer.
The "cats" running gag taps into internet culture while the visual countdown creates an information gap that keeps you watching.
The educational value wrapped in entertainment makes it feel less like a corporate video and more like a fun discovery.
People would probably save this for the actual tips once they're revealed, and share it because it makes learning about Reels strategies entertaining rather than dry.
The Inspiration Catalyst, 1.2M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Notion shows Ram explaining how to capture creative inspiration by writing ideas down. He uses humor about forgetting what he had for lunch, then demonstrates using Notion to store ideas and create moodboards.
The relatability hits first - everyone has lost a great idea to their forgetful brain. Ram's self-deprecating humor about his memory makes him feel like a regular person rather than a productivity guru.
The problem-solution framework is simple but effective.
The actionable advice ("write it down") is easy to implement immediately, which triggers people to try it. For us, it looks very familiar, because it's a proven format we've documented many times - addressing a universal pain point with a simple, tool-assisted solution.
The Savvy Sell, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel by QuoteIQ shows a pressure washing business owner explaining why customers pay more when they call back later for additional services.
The satisfying cleaning footage plays while he explains the $250 minimum charge logic.
The visual satisfaction of pressure washing keeps your eyes glued while the business insight hooks your brain. He frames higher pricing as beneficial to the customer, which flips the typical "greedy business" narrative.
The "I hate it for them, not me" line builds trust by positioning him as an advisor.
The controversial pricing strategy naturally sparks debate in comments. Some people agree with the business logic while others question why this isn't explained upfront. This division drives engagement as people want to voice their opinions.
The Roof Cleaning, 1.8M+ views
This Instagram Reel by QuoteIQ demonstrates roof cleaning with sodium hypochlorite, calling it "the most profitable service" but also "hardest to sell." The before-and-after transformation is visually satisfying.
The "oddly satisfying" cleaning footage gets people to watch, while the business claim ("most profitable") hooks entrepreneurs.
The honest caveat about it being "hard to sell" builds credibility rather than making unrealistic promises.
The specific details about chemicals and techniques make viewers feel they're getting insider knowledge.
People in home improvement or "side hustle" communities would share this as a useful tip they discovered.
The Marathon World Record, 15M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Running PEAK captures Kelvin Kiptum setting the marathon world record in 2:00:35.
The announcer's excitement builds as Kiptum approaches the finish line and shares an emotional hug with his coach.
Peak human achievement always draws viewers.
The statistical improbability of a sub-2:01 marathon creates awe, even for non-runners.
The announcer's genuine excitement ("Oh my goodness!") amplifies the emotion and makes it contagious.
The tragic context of Kiptum's later death adds another layer of meaning. Many comments mention "RIP," transforming this from just a sports highlight into a tribute to a lost legend. This emotional weight increases shares as people want to honor his memory.
A Man's World, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Xero features a female founder discussing barriers for women in sports, then sharing her personal health journey with endometriosis and periods. She explains how this led her to create Nixi Body - absorbent underwear for periods and bladder leaks.
The vulnerability in discussing taboo health topics creates an unusually strong connection. Talking openly about "heavy periods," "bladder leaks," and "hysterectomy" breaks social barriers and makes women feel seen and understood.
The mission-driven narrative elevates this beyond just product promotion. It becomes about empowering women to stay active through all life stages.
People would share this with friends facing similar health challenges or anyone who'd be inspired by a female founder tackling these issues head-on.
Woon's Recipe for Connection, 1.7M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Square shows Woon restaurant owner driving his distinctive grey Honda Kei van and using Square's payment systems.
The narrative follows his journey from pop-up to brick-and-mortar restaurant.
The aspirational yet relatable story works because the owner admits he "didn't know anything about the restaurant industry." This vulnerability makes his success feel achievable.
The behind-the-scenes feel with the quirky van and unpretentious restaurant interior builds authenticity.
Square is positioned as an enabler rather than the star, which makes the sponsorship feel natural.
The announcement of a new Pasadena location creates local buzz and community engagement in the comments.
The Amboy-Square Success Narrative, 1.2M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Square features chef Alvin Cailan explaining how Square helped him go from "$300 a day in sales to tripling my daily intake" when he started accepting credit cards with Egg Slut food truck.
The classic underdog story creates immediate engagement. Alvin's journey from "nearly quitting" to building "world-renowned brands" becomes inspiring. His credibility as a successful chef (not an actor) makes the testimonial powerful.
The specific metrics ("$300 a day" to "tripling") provide concrete proof of ROI. It's a recurring element we've seen in multiple viral case studies - quantified transformations are more persuasive than vague claims about improvement.
The Unvarnished Truth of Endurance, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Running PEAK shows the real struggles of NYC Marathon runners - cramping, walking, stretching against barriers, and the painful post-race stairs descent.
The raw authenticity cuts through typical marathon coverage that focuses on winners. Showing the "grunt work" and visible pain creates empathy from anyone who's pushed their physical limits.
The relatability for runners is instant - "if you know, you know."
The rapid montage prevents any single struggle from becoming tedious while showing the universal nature of marathon suffering.
The stairs scene at the end becomes a memorable, almost comedic symbol of post-race agony that people share for its relatable humor.
Adizero, 1.1M+ views
This Instagram Reel by adidas Running shows a runner tossing Adizero shoes that float in mid-air, then magically "snap" onto his feet as he starts sprinting.
The text reads "Everything's faster... in Adios Pro 4s."
The levitating shoes break physics and create a massive curiosity gap. Your brain expects them to fall, but they don't, which compels you to watch until they finally land.
The "magical realism" approach makes a simple shoe ad memorable and shareable.
The brief but satisfying payoff when the shoes finally attach creates a "wow" moment that people want to share.
The visual trick is simple but effective at demonstrating the "extraordinary performance" message metaphorically.
Glassdoor's Viral Hit, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Glassdoor reveals the "top five best places to work for 2025" in countdown format, mentioning that "#4 company has made most employees millionaires."
The countdown format creates anticipation - people stick around to see who's #1.
The specific detail about employee millionaires at #4 creates a curiosity gap that boosts watch time. Including unexpected companies like In-N-Out Burger alongside tech giants adds novelty.
The universal relevance of workplace topics makes this highly shareable. Anyone looking for better work conditions or curious about top employers would engage.
The clear authority of Glassdoor and emphasis on "employee reviews" builds trust in the rankings.
The Oversized Treadmill Experience, 1.1M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Running PEAK showcases an exceptionally wide treadmill with dynamic camera work following a runner from multiple angles.
The scale is immediately impressive.
The novelty factor hits first - most people have never seen a treadmill this wide.
The camera work transforms a simple demonstration into a cinematic experience, with tracking shots that make you feel part of the action.
People would probably comment about wanting one or joking about needing a huge space.
The visual spectacle makes it shareable as a "you have to see this" moment, especially among fitness enthusiasts who'd appreciate the equipment.
The Heartbeat of Hope, 0.8M+ views
This Instagram Reel by KIPRUN showcases the 42 HOUSE training camp in Iten, Kenya, emphasizing community and family atmosphere among elite runners rather than just athletic performance.
The pivot from athletic prowess to human connection works because it subverts expectations.
Instead of just showing fast runners, it reveals a supportive ecosystem.
The "big family" narrative taps into universal desires for belonging and community.
The transformation stories ("my life has changed a lot") provide aspiration while the scenic Kenyan landscape adds visual appeal.
The human-centered approach makes elite running feel more accessible and inspiring rather than intimidating.
The Unbreakable Bond, 1.1M+ views
This Instagram Reel by RunMotion Coach shows a couple finishing the Paris Half Marathon hand-in-hand, with emotional text about love and rebirth.
The context reveals the man has ulcerative colitis and ran during a flare-up.
The emotional display at the finish line feels completely authentic - the tears, exhaustion, and deep embrace create powerful empathy. Learning about the RCH condition transforms this from sweet "couple goals" into an extraordinary testament to human determination.
The backstory revealed in comments adds crucial context that elevates the video beyond a typical race finish.
People would share this as inspiration about overcoming adversity and the power of love and support during difficult times.
The Perfect Morning Motivator, 2.5M+ views
This Instagram Reel by KIPRUN follows a runner's "perfect morning" from tying shoes to beach sunrise run, with enthusiastic voiceover saying "Hey! This looks like the perfect morning!"
The aspirational content shows an idealized version of a runner's morning that viewers want to achieve.
The companion-like voiceover ("You. And me.") creates intimacy rather than feeling like detached advertising.
The rapid cuts synchronized with upbeat energy maintain engagement.
The positive emotional framing is relentless - everything about this morning is "perfect." This feel-good content makes people want to share it as morning motivation or workout inspiration with friends.
The Rise and Fall of a Sprinter, 51M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Running PEAK shows a marathon runner starting with explosive speed and confidence, then reveals "After 400 meters" he's completely exhausted and bent over while others jog past.
The expectation vs reality twist is perfectly timed.
The initial confidence and confetti make him look like a potential winner, then the title card creates suspense before the comedic payoff.
The juxtaposition triggers genuine laughter.
The relatability is massive - everyone can relate to starting something with too much enthusiasm and burning out.
People would share this with friends who have similar tendencies or comment with their own overeager experiences.
The Adventures of a Mini Shopping Cart, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Meta for Business shows a tiny camera inside a miniature shopping cart traveling through an event, collecting items like coffee cups, a puppy, and fries from a POV perspective.
The novelty of the cart's perspective creates immediate curiosity.
The shift to first-person view is unexpected and makes you wonder what it will "see" or "collect" next. Each scene offers a mini-reward - the puppy scene triggers major "aww" reactions.
The anthropomorphization of the cart (giving it a journey and experiences) makes viewers emotionally invested in "its" adventure.
People would share this for the cuteness factor and creative execution, especially the puppy moment.
The Tapestry of Human Motivation, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Runna | Running Coaching App features post-marathon street interviews asking "What's your reason for running?" Responses range from honoring lost loved ones to overcoming terminal illness predictions.
The authentic vulnerability creates immediate emotional connection. Stories about running after being told "you won't live to see your next birthday" or using running to overcome mental health crises tap into deep human emotions of hope and resilience.
The rapid succession of diverse motivations ensures broad appeal while the variety keeps watch time high.
The final "nothing is impossible" message provides an inspiring climax that people would share as motivation for others facing challenges.
The Marathon Fueling Formula, 0.8M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Runna | Running Coaching App shows someone asking their "2:34 marathon runner boss" about gel strategy. He explains the 60g carbs/hour guideline and his personal approach using higher-carb gels.
The authority of a 2:34 marathoner immediately establishes credibility.
The structured explanation satisfies both beginners wanting guidance and experienced runners interested in optimization strategies.
The "boss" framing makes it feel like insider advice.
The background visual gags (random sales graph, fake typing) become shared jokes in comments while the debatable 60g recommendation naturally invites discussion from runners who use different strategies.
Keep Running, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel by KIPRUN opens with nostalgic footage of children running joyfully, asking "Why did we ever stop?" before transitioning to diverse adults running with "KEEP [ACTION]" messages throughout.
The nostalgia trigger immediately creates positive emotional connection. Seeing uninhibited childhood joy followed by "Why did we ever stop?" taps into common feelings about lost vitality.
The "KEEP" repetition with variations maintains engagement while highlighting different running benefits.
The emotional arc from lost childhood joy to rediscovered adult empowerment provides inspiration.
The diverse representation allows broad audience connection while the "MORE RUNS. MORE LIFE" tagline becomes memorable and shareable.
The Marathon Taper, 1.2M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Strava shows Joe Sugg's final training episode before London Marathon, featuring tapering advice, Pilates with girlfriend Dianne Buswell, and Strava integration for tracking and community support.
The "final episode" framing creates narrative anticipation while Joe's self-deprecating humor (nearly hitting his head on a tree) makes him relatable.
The celebrity girlfriend adds borrowed interest while their relationship dynamics provide entertainment.
The charity element (Age UK) adds meaningful purpose beyond personal achievement.
People would engage to support the cause while the Strava community features encourage platform engagement through "kudos" and follows.
The Roadside Hustle, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel by INFLUISH shows a man in an office chair on a public road with blue smoke, explaining paid collaboration opportunities for influencers with 4K+ followers earning ₹1000 per reel.
The absurd visual setup (office chair on road with smoke) creates massive pattern interrupt that stops scrolling immediately.
The accessibility of 4K followers makes the opportunity feel achievable for many micro-influencers.
The clear value proposition addresses a core pain point - monetization for smaller creators.
People would probably share this opportunity with peers who meet the criteria, while the unusual visual makes it memorable and discussion-worthy.
Marathon Milestones, 1.5M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Strava documents Joe Sugg's complete London Marathon experience from start to emotional finish, including support from girlfriend Dianne and pacer Savannah, with Strava tracking data.
The complete narrative arc from preparation through struggle to triumph provides emotional investment. Joe's authentic reactions (awe at Tower Bridge, visible fatigue at 30km) make the journey feel genuine rather than staged.
The iconic London landmarks provide visual appeal while the personal touches (bracelet kiss, likely from his niece) add heartwarming sentiment.
The Strava data visualization offers satisfying proof of the achievement's scale.
A Viral Marathon Moment, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Strava showcases four elite marathon runners with their incredible paces, starting with "They really ran that pace for a whole marathon 😱🤯" and featuring pop-up bios for each athlete.
The opening text perfectly captures viewer disbelief at the superhuman paces.
The rapid-fire format prevents fatigue while each runner's unique personality (like "just a chill guy" for an Olympic champion) adds human elements to elite performance.
The concrete data (3:06/km pace) provides analytical appeal while the crowd energy creates infectious excitement.
People would share this to express amazement at human athletic capability or inspire fellow runners.
@welovetrail.app Cuando lo das todo en la montaña 🙌🔥 🎥 Goldentrailseries #trailrunning #trail #run #running #runners #fyp #viral #mountains ♬ som original - Football Moments
London Marathon Triumph, 0.6M+ views
This Instagram Reel by Strava follows a runner's complete London Marathon journey from self-doubt ("something I never thought I'd be able to do") through training struggles to achieving a 13-minute PR and Boston Qualifying time.
The vulnerability about self-doubt makes the subsequent triumph more powerful.
The honest acknowledgment of "dreadful runs" during training creates authenticity that contrasts with more curated fitness content.
The quantified achievement (13-minute PR, Boston Qualifier) provides concrete aspirational goals within the running community.
The emotional support system shown throughout reinforces the importance of community in achieving difficult goals.
The "Pregnant Pause" Payout, 1.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel by INFLUISH features a man with a comically stuffed shirt creating a "pregnant" belly while explaining influencer pricing formulas and promoting their commission-free collaboration app.
The stuffed shirt creates massive pattern interrupt - people stop scrolling just to understand why he looks pregnant. This visual curiosity hook dramatically boosts those crucial first seconds of watch time while generating comment engagement about the absurd appearance.
The financial advice (pricing formulas) provides perceived value for aspiring influencers while the app promotion offers a solution to finding collaborations.
The bizarre visual ensures the message isn't lost in the noise of typical advice content.
Napolify's Resources
- More than 500 viral content pieces analyzed
- Case Studies of viral accounts (Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook)
- Free Marketing Tools & Calculators
- Latest Tiktok Trends
More blog posts
- Viral Tiktok strategies for running apps
- Viral marketing trends for running apps
- Viral marketing strategies for running apps