The rise in popularity of running in the Philippines indicates a revitalized outlook among Filipinos regarding their health and wellness. This is reflected in the growing number of participants in recent events like fun runs and races and the burgeoning running communities in many parts of the country.
In fact, over 9,400 runners, including novice and seasoned ones, families, kids, and people from various backgrounds, joined the two legs of Run for Wellness this year, held at UP Diliman in Quezon City on June 16 and Naga City on September 15, just in time for the celebration of the Peñafrancia Festival.
Organized by Southstar Drug and Maxicare, Run for Wellness is an annual event that promotes physical health and well-being through running. Originally held in Naga City, it has since expanded to Metro Manila to encourage more Filipinos to sprint toward their best lives and become their own champions.
Joining running events like Run for Wellness is a great way to start your own wellness journey and connect with others who have the same goal of embracing a more active lifestyle. After all, running is free and accessible compared to other forms of workout, which makes it beginner-friendly. It’s a great cardiovascular exercise that also strengthens muscles and bones, and boosts mental well-being.
It doesn’t require much to start running as a habit—good running shoes and comfortable clothing are really all you need. Basic knowledge about warm-up and cool-down exercises to avoid injuries, a fitness watch to track your progress over time, and the right mindset to overcome days when you just don’t feel like running at all can also help.
As you adopt running in your day-to-day routine, don’t forget to be mindful of the other aspects of your health and wellness. These include eating a balanced diet, having adequate rest and sleep, and ensuring you are in the right mental space despite the stresses of everyday life. In doing so, you’ll be able to achieve better holistic health, enabling you to be stronger and stay consistent with your running journey.
When it comes to embracing a healthier lifestyle, Southstar Drug and Maxicare are your partners—champions of health and wellness. With over 600 stores nationwide and a user-friendly platform, Southstar Drug is one of the largest and most established drugstore chains in the country. It provides a wide range of affordable medicines, products, and services.
Maxicare, on the other hand, is the Philippines’ leading HMO, serving nearly 2 million members with a comprehensive range of healthcare plans for corporations, SMEs, individuals, and families. These plans include Prepaid Health Cards that offer convenient and affordable options. Maxicare offers services that deliver an unparalleled member experience and an extensive network of medical partners.
