Ready Set Go: Running as a Wellness Hobby Why everyone’s doing it, and where to start

“Tara takbo!” is becoming a more common hangout invite these days, as more and more Pinoys join a vibrant running community. Half and full marathons have been around for years, but now they’re hotter than ever, drawing crowds even before sunrise for their race starts (PinoyFitness.com lists 39 running events for the rest of 2024 alone). Pinoys are embracing running as a sweet payback for lockdown life. Cycling may have its own perks, but what’s really fueling the takbo rush?

Why you should give running a try

Running isn’t just a solo sport anymore; it’s become a lifestyle and a way to connect with others. Here are some of the reasons why you might want to lace up and hit the road:

1. Social Butterfly or Lone Wolf? It’s all good! Running is booming, and there’s a vibrant social scene around it. Whether you thrive in a group or prefer to go it alone, running offers flexibility. Running clubs are popping up everywhere, making the sport newbie-friendly and welcoming, especially to the ever-social, ever-connecting/networking Pinoy. There’s even a dating scene around it, with apps like Strava helping you track your routes and potentially find a running partner or two.

2. Light on the Wallet, Easy on the Go. Running is one of the most affordable, portable ways to stay fit. You don’t need big purchases or fancy equipment; just a pair of good shoes and maybe a fitness watch, and you’re good to go. With a variety of running apps available for different cities, you can easily find routes, track your progress, and explore new areas on foot.

Ed Vincent Flores, hailed as the best setter in the recent Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. Volleyball Finals, once shared his favorite running spots around Cebu, one of which is Cebu Business Park. This spot is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of city life and nature. With its convenient location and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great place for both casual joggers and serious runners.

3. Set Your Own Pace. Running is perfect for all fitness levels. Whether you’re training for a marathon or just looking for a new way to stay active, you can set your own pace and goals. It can be family-friendly quality time. Best of all, you see yourself getting better and stronger with each run – clear results that are a fantastic motivator and help de-stress from work life.
   Note: if you have health issues, it can’t hurt to consult your doctor for guidelines on safe speeds, heart rate, breathing, etc. before lacing up.

Running spots to start with

Runners are a daily sight in the country’s greener, park-filled communities, and on social media. But running’s not just for urbanites: it's a national passion with scenic trails across the Philippines. In Cebu, the Tops Lookout offers breathtaking views of the city, while Cebu Business Park provides a mix of urban and natural landscapes. Davao boasts the serene Eden Nature Park and the vibrant People's Park, both ideal for connecting with nature and the community. Up in Baguio, Camp John Hay’s cool pine forests and Burnham Park's peaceful lake paths offer refreshing runs. Meanwhile, Batangas and Taal present adventurous routes like the Taal Volcano Trails and Mount Maculot Trail, where steep climbs lead to stunning vistas.

If you live in Metro Manila and plan to do a beginner-friendly run, try your own village or community till you get comfortable. If you need space and trees, you could start with the runner-famous University of the Philippines Academic Oval, which you can enjoy whether or not you’re an Isko or Iska. Quezon Circle also offers the Insta-worthy view of the Peace Bell and the Quezon Heritage House, allowing you a healthy amount of sightseeing while you get your healthy dose of running adrenaline.

With these scenic trails all over the country, running indeed becomes a fun recreational activity as much as it is a health-beneficial exercise.

Physical and mental benefits of running

A calmer state of mind for a more vibrant life. Running triggers the release of chemicals that can ease anxiety and bring about a feeling of tranquility. Whether you’re on a treadmill, a track, a trail, or down a sidewalk, getting active is an effective and healthy strategy to manage difficult periods. Running is one of many exercises that releases norepinephrine, a chemical that helps moderate the brain's response to stress.

While enjoying the benefits, lead a more vibrant and worry-free life with FWD Vibrant. This insurance plan has got you covered -- from wellness to recovery – in case a critical illness attempts to disrupt you and your goals. With Vibrant, you can focus on getting back on your feet health-wise instead of worrying about medical expenses.

Heart health -- and (surprise) sleep! Running is one of the best exercises for heart health, lowering the risk of heart disease by up to 50% and reducing resting heart rate, which signifies a more efficient heart. Besides these, running can enhance sleep quality by helping your body rejuvenate overnight. Just be cautious of running too late in the day, as the endorphins can stimulate your brain and disrupt your sleep. What else can help you get better sleep? Knowing you are Set for Health. This plan from FWD is zero-waste – if your active lifestyle helps you avoid critical illness, you can make a claim to get your money back at age 75! Set for Health is available to purchase online via FWD Shop.

We all find twists and turns on life’s roads. But if you know your track, there are plenty of ways to lead a more secure, worry-free life knowing you’re on pace and on track, physically and financially.