27/06/2024
Ready na ba ang lahat 🏃♂️
PINOYS’ RUNNING ERA
The Philippines is experiencing a surge in participation in running events lately. This is popularly known as the ‘running era,’ and it is driven by several factors, including health and fitness.
Aside from being inexpensive since one only needs a pair of shoes, this trend is further fueled by scores of community-focused races that offer not only a physical challenge but also social connection.
The splurge of social media influencers also contributed to the popularity of the running craze, creating a community, and fulfilling a state of belonging. One recent huge run, which was influenced by a P-pop girl group called 'BINI', attracted 6,000 participants. Video clips featuring the running workouts of several influencers, like Rei Germar, Kuya Kim Atienza, and even the Alcasid couple, went viral.
Despite the scorching heat of a tropical country like the Philippines, certain Filipinos find comfort in activities that others might perceive as a form of hardship or discipline. Moreover, some people see it as a way to fight their “silent battles.”
“There was a moment when I started to join a running club in UP Diliman. I saw the increasing trend in running, which means that more people are getting into physical fitness, and running really helped me in my battle against depression. It became one of my modes of therapy," Jericho Sonon, an active runner, said.
But could this ‘running era’ benefit Filipinos?
According to the World Health Organization, regular exercise can lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. It also helps control blood pressure and maintain a healthy weight.
Running improves cardiovascular endurance and increases lung capacity.
It could be a way to lessen the country’s' rising number of cases of heart and respiratory diseases.
There are other benefits. Running could also boost your metabolism and improve cognitive functions, including memory retention and attention span.
What’s good about running is that you can do it in many places. You can either go solo at home or join clubs if you desire company.
Rockwell Run Club, EZ Run Club, Cubao Run Club, and Almost Speedy Run Club are some of the few groups you can search for if you’d like to invest time in this healthy habit.
by Jam Danio
