PHILSTAR L!FE RECOMMENDS
Here are the best places to run outdoors and even indoors, according to experienced runners
More and more individuals seem to be into running lately.
What started as an attempt to kill cabin fever brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic has been a way of life for many. With newbies joining the fold, they may wonder how and where they can improve their running speed and get better at this activity.
PhilSTAR L!fe reached out to seasoned runners to ask for the best places that are conducive, challenging, but ultimately fun. Here's what they shared with us.
Mt. Parawagan
Running coach RB Mercader said the best way to do running is through trail runs involving mountainous terrain.
Not only that these runs pose thrilling challenges to runners—rookies and veterans alike—they also offer scenic views, making it such an appealing activity.
Mercader, for one, recommended Mt. Parawagan, which is located in Sitio Wawa in Rodriguez. It takes about 5 kilometers to reach the summit, meaning the loop is worth 10 kilometers.
The route is especially beginner-friendly since it doesn't have a river crossing.
Mt. Ayaas
Mercader also suggested Mt. Ayaas.
This mountain in Barangay Mascap in Montalban has an initial trail stretching 6.5 kilometers, which totals 13 kilometers upon return. It proves to be challenging with its steep ascent at the start.
According to Mercader, the challenge increases with its diverse terrains that include river crossings, dirt paths, and stony sections.
But ultimately, reaching the summit rewards runners with a picturesque view of the surrounding landscapes.
Wawa Dam
The running coach said Wawa Dam over the Marikina River in Rodriguez, Rizal also has routes with river crossings, dirt paths, and stony terrains.
The dam is an entry point to Casile Trail, a flat course stretching 6.5 kilometers to the Casile area, which amounts to a 13-kilometer run upon return.
Runners are treated with the natural beauty of the Marikina River and the Sierra Madre mountain range in the end.
Bonifacio Global City
Those living in the metro can also do their running in the city, according to Mercader.
Mercader noted that Bonifacio Global City in Taguig is the "center" of running, as a lot of its routes are frequented by casual joggers and seasoned runners.
It has wide sidewalks and dedicated pedestrian lanes, making it a safe location for the activity.
What reinforces this safety, per Mercader, is its fair amount of green spaces as well as fewer public utility vehicles around—on top of being well-lit at night—making it a favorite pick among running groups.
Popular running areas include the BGC Greenway Park and University Parkway.
Taytay Sports Complex
Bim Santos, a running enthusiast for over a decade now, told L!fe that oval tracks are also good options when it comes to running outdoors. He suggested Taytay Sports Complex, whose facilities are available from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
The place has dedicated lanes depending on the type of runner.
Check out the complex's rules and regulations in this link.
Cainta Oval Park
According to Santos, Cainta Oval Park is also a free destination for runners of any level.
Take a look at the park in this aerial video shared by a YouTube user to know what you can expect before your running session.
Indoor options
Santos highlighted how inclusive and versatile running is that it can be done "anywhere."
He said one's neighborhood is an option, as long as there are not much vehicles around.
Santos and Mercader said it can even be done in the comforts of one's home, particularly when one has a treadmill.
They added that a gym is also a good training venue.
Running tips
Mercader reminded runners to stick with their program, going easy and hard as they deem fit. He stressed the importance of doing the necessary warmups and hydrating properly.
When it comes to mindset, he advised runners against comparing themselves with others or overly looking at their watches.
As for Santos, consistency is key.
Beginners, he noted, don't have to "overcomplicate" the exercise, opting for a pace that is challenging but sustainable.
"I just try to keep it simple. I just try to run regularly and make it part of my daily routine, like brushing my teeth," he said. "I believe that consistency always trumps intensity."
Mercader and Santos reminded runners to be careful and mindful of their surroundings, especially when they're running near their homes.
"When running, I just try to be safe and be respectful of other pedestrians and people on the road, which includes other runners," Santos said.
Both Mercader and Santos advised the public to join running clubs. Groups on Facebook include the Rwp Run Club, 5AM Gang Run Club, and Pilipinas Running Community.
"It’s okay to run solo if one wants to keep to one's self and be contemplative," Santos said, "but it’s also fun eventually to meet other like-minded people in a run club setting, especially if one starts to really like the sport."
"Being in a fun run club could make the sport more sustainable and enjoyable as you feed off the energy and enthusiasm of other people in your club," he added. "You also learn from other people’s experiences."
