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Explore Taipei by Running – 5 Must-Do Routes For All Tourists

Joey
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2
Explore Taipei by Running – 5 Must-Do Routes For All Tourists

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is home to not just the awesome street food, but also exciting shopping and a bustling nightlife. While some have touted the city as a “cheaper alternative to Tokyo”, those who know better know that they have their own distinct differences, which make both cities highly popular, especially among the young.

Should you be thinking of taking a well-deserved break there and perhaps have a few runs too, you may want to consider the following 5 trails you can get a good workout in Taipei.

#1 Taipei Train Station to Danshuei

Photo Credits: Wikiloc

A moderately difficult trail, this 25.6 kilometre route runs between Taipei Train Station and Danshuei on the Taiwan Coast. While the run may take up to four hours long, you will be able to admire the wonderful views along the way.

#2 Fubon Taipei Half Marathon Route

Photo Credits: Beast Runners

You can expect to see some of Taipei’s most interesting and picturesque places such as Riverside Park, Baling Bridge, Maruyama, Wind Tower, the Taipei City Civic Plaza, the Healthy Way ramp on the elevated ramp, Jen Ai Road, and Zhongshan Road along this route. It is said that running this 21.1 kilometre trail, which includes hills, valleys, roadways, and parkland, will give one a glimpse of Taiwan’s past, present and future. Curious? You have to try it to find out if this is true!

#3 Taipei Metropolitan Park Trail

Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons

With an eclectic mix of green grassy park land, river banks, large trees, small temples, stores and even a flea market, this 20 kilometre trail is so easy and in it, so beautiful, because it offers city dwellers the opportunity to take their minds off their work or study and just go for a run and relax.

#4 Daan Park

Photo Credits: Arch Daily 

Often referred to as the “lungs of Taipei City”, Daan Park is framed by Jianguo South Road, Xinsheng South Road, Heping East Road and Xinyi Road. And while you enjoy the two kilometre loop of the park, you can also expect to se a rich variety of plant life, depending on which season you are there in. The best things about this park is that you can run at night as the paths are well lit, and there are also path-side temperature and time displays to help runners keep track of their pace. The different pathway surfaces such as red clay, cement, ceramic tile, slate tile, asphalt, earth, and grass, all provide a range of running experiences.

#5 Balaka Highway

Photo Credits: Domestique.tw

With Taiwan’s love for running upping a notch each time, this highway, which used to be highly popular with bicyclists, has become a near-perfect advanced training course due to its gentle slopes and awesome panoramas of the Yangmingshan peaks. With a main course of 12.6 kilometres one way, you will also be led to tourist spots such as Barla Café, the tomb of Yu Youren, Datun Nature Park and the Erziping Visitor Centre.

Read More:

  1. 5 Beautiful Trail Marathons Worth Travelling For 
  2. 5 Sold Out Marathons In The World
  3. 10 Standard Chartered Marathons You Might Not Know Existed 

Japan Kansai SenShu Marathon 2017 with GoPro

fookyw
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0
Japan Kansai SenShu Marathon 2017 with GoPro

If mention about Japan Marathon, most people will thinking of Tokyo and Kyoto Marathon. These two are the most hottest, magnificent best scenic Marathon host in Japan. However, both Marathon also review as One of the hardest ballot to win Marathon from Earth!

I was lucky enough to win Tokyo Marathon entry in 2016 and i though, this year i will be lucky as last year to stepping on scenic Kyoto Marathon course. However, i wasn’t pray hard enough and smell no smoke… T_T

But, there’s another Marathon host on exactly same day and not far from Kyoto Marathon. That’s hidden gem i want to share for this review, “泉州国際市民マラソン”, Kansai SenShu Marathon! Most of the time, Senshu Marathon will reserved 200 slot for foreign runners on a first-come-first-served basis after registration closed. I was lucky enough this time to hoot~ on this race. Else, i will be one of the cheering team seeing my lari buddies running pass by Kyoto scenic route and eating their dust!

OK, let’s not be mang..cham.. and hit the road to Senshu. I was invited to join Senshu Welcome Party on a day before race. I was surprise and honor for the warming welcome and mix around with elite and foreign runner.

Makanthon was started after welcome speech. I was seat together with Austria and Taiwan runner. I will said Austria and Taiwan runner is no doubt good in Marathon, they also good in Minumthon. It’s amazing to interact with them and i start to wonder ‘am i able to finish race tomorrow’?

Organizer invite us to join Japanese Traditional Taiko Drum and Yes! we have fun!

I barely remember how i went back to my hostel after Welcome Party. Luckily still manage to reach Starting Point next day in time!

Race Starting from Hamadera Park and Finishing in Rinku Park

The official hydration station is not as many like Singapore. However, it’s enough for chilling weather like Japan. It’s plenty of cheering crowd with hydration and food sponsor along route.

Anyway, I finish Senshu Marathon within cutoff time(5 hour) with half hangover condition. I will said that Senshu Marathon is one of my happiness and memorable run in Japan. If anyone happen to be looking and having fun experiencing Marathon in Japan and tired trying for ballot system. “泉州国際市民マラソン”, Kansai SenShu Marathon is your choice!

Discipline. Determination. Dedication.

Cindy Ong
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0
Discipline. Determination. Dedication.

This week has been very inspiring. I had the privilege to receive some running tips from coach Lexxus Tan from F1 Runners, join the team in a Good Friday beach training, meet and get to know like-minded people and receive three very powerful words in running, the 3Ds – discipline, determination and dedication.

My hubby has finally decided to join the F1 Runners after feeling stagnant in his trainings. After going for a few sessions and finding it useful, he encouraged me to take up an assessment with coach. Coach Lexxus Tan took me through some drills and courses to observe my running form and assess my strengths and weaknesses. He then provided me some tips on areas I could work on and improve on. He was very generous with his sharing and took the session very seriously. I really appreciate the coaching session as with immediate effect, I could correct myself to do better.

Although I could also join F1 Runners but considering my work and personal commitment, I have to put a hold on this. I decided to join the CBD Runners instead first as it takes place weekly. From there, I can slowly prioritise while building up. This also means I FINALLY found a running group to train with.

So, on Good Friday, I joined them for a beach training. When I woke up, I really had no idea what I was in for. I had not expected us to kick off our shoes and run on the sand barefoot. I most certainly had not expected us to get wet (from sea water). It was very refreshing and makes training less dull. It was a break from the usual routine and coach set up relays and circuits.

Running on the beach barefoot and having relays make interval trainings more interesting. Photo Credit: F1 Runners
Some “tortures” are for good for us. Photo Credit: F1 Runners
This photo of my hubby looks like it came from some Bondi Rescue scene. Photo Credit: F1 Runners

Through these, we had a combination of cardio, speed and strength training. Yet, it was so enjoyable. I had to admit it was also torturous. However, with a group of highly motivated runners doing them together, there was really no excuse to stop. Everyone lived up to the F1 Runners’ motto of discipline, determination and dedication. Everyone had a goal and was striving towards it. It was also an honour to be on such a fun training together with our SEA Games representative, Jasmine Goh!

The girls team. Photo Credit: F1 Runners

Before this week, I had no idea it could be so fun joining F1 Runners. They had produced many podium runners and I always thought only the elites train with them. I discovered that anybody can join them as they have different categories and levels to suit different runners and motivations. Some people joined for health reasons, some for personal achievements. The runners are also very friendly and the atmosphere is light-hearted and easy going. They are also very supportive of one another.

Thanks for such a fun session! Photo Credit: F1 Runners

Rain or shine, F1 Runners also do not stop training. They have a whole week of training in the mornings and evenings. I thought this is really awesome. Once again, living up to the motto!

Now, the 3Ds are etched onto my mind. These three words are really inspiring. It gives me no excuse to hit the snooze button ten times now. Ok! I am going to be discipline and go offline so I can wake up early. I am determined to do my LSD tomorrow. And I am dedicated to complete my trainings for the Gold Coast Marathon.

3 Tips For Aspiring Duathletes

Mel
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0
3 Tips For Aspiring Duathletes

The Duathlon is a different beast to tame – different from pure running, pure cycling and even the triathlon. For the runners and cyclist, cycling and running is a completely different sport, using different muscle groups and making the duathlon a complete different ballgame. For the triathletes – swapping out the swim for another run completely changes the dynamics of the race. We can assure you it becomes a different sport in its entirety.

Whether you are an experienced or an aspiring duathlete, it’s always good to get some tips or be reminded of the basics! Here are some tips for you!

#1 Don’t Go Out Too Hard

 With the adrenaline rush, it’s easy to go out too hard too fast. But bear in mind, you will pay the price later on – either on your bike ride or on the 2nd segment of your run. Bear in mind, the duathlon distance is not won in the first run. You would want to go at the fastest pace you can with enough reserve to not burn out during the bike or 2nd run. The more you race, the better you can gauge what this upper limit is. Pacing really is everything when it comes to races like these! Don’t let your adrenaline rush get the better of you!

#2 Brick It

A brick workout is one whereby you stack both disciplines in one consecutive workout. You either run and then bike, or bike then run. The switching between different modes of exercise will cause a significant rise in heart rate as your body shifts the bloodflow from muscle group to another. Brick workouts simulates the demands of race day and will help your body handle the shifts more efficiently.

#3 Use 2 Pairs Of Trainers With No-Tie Laces

To shave off more transition time, this is a duathlon-specific trick. Use a separate pair of shoes for each run. This way, your shoe would be perfectly placed when you come back form your bike. It would be easier and faster to slip on your shoes and just go off. Elastic No-Tie laces is a MUST! We know it’s a matter of just seconds, but when it comes to races like this, every second counts!

Here are some tips to bear in mind! What are you waiting for? Du it! Looking for a Duathlon race to kickstart duathlon journey, join the Singapore Duathlon 2017!

George Town World Heritage Day Run @ The Performance Series Penang

Mel
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0
George Town World Heritage Day Run @ The Performance Series Penang

Come celebrate the Penang heritage roots together with The Performance Series Penang! Happening on the George Town World Heritage Day weekend – 9th July 2017, there is no better way to see all the Penang Heritage this island has to offer. On foot is really the best way to soak in all these landmark heritage sites and experience Penang!

Don’t know where to go on your first date? Or is an anniversary around the corner? Have you been neglecting your family? No family day since 1990? Thinking where to bring your kids for a good day of fun? Or your parents even grandparents?

Well – The Performance Series Penang is your answer! Run Penang whilst reminiscing on the good old heritage and the good old days! Tell your kids your story during your good old days! Remind your grandparents or great grandparents of their glory days!

Here are some iconic sights TPS 2017 will bring you!

Church Street Pier

The Church Street Pier was built in 1897. During the early days, the quay was extremely busy and perpetually chaotic – with sampans, tongkangs, mini boats, big boats that load and unload their cargo. This is Penang’s evidence of Penang’s status as a thriving harbour and port. Probably a big part of the lives of the older generations in Penang Island!

Masjid Lebuh Acheh

Built back in 1808, this mosque has a standout architecture. The mosque was built by a wealthy Arab trader, strongly signifying Penang’s high status as an international trading port. This mosque is very noteworthy for it’s Egyptian style minaret as compared to the rest of the mosques that have a Moorish-influence minaret.

Jubilee Clock Tower

Photo Credits: travelpod

This is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Penang Island. Standing high at 60 ft in height, the clock tower was built to commemorate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee. Each foot represents a year of the Queen’s reign, hence it was built at 60 ft. Did you know that due to the bombs dropped around it during World War 2, the clock tower leans to one side, much like the leaning tower of Pisa? It’s Italy, right in Malaysia!

Cheah Si Sek Tong

Photo Credits: Visit Penang

Probably a heritage mane of the Chinese older generations can relate to. Back in the day, Penang was renown for being an international trade port. Many people from mainland China emigrated. Clan associations were established, some with specific surnames to look after the welfare of their people. The Cheahs were originated from Sek Tong village of South China and hence a clan house was built and named after Cheah Si Sek Tek Tong or fondly known as Cheah Kongsi. So, are you a Cheah? If so, you share much in common with the rest of the Cheah Penangites!

Penang Murals

Photo Credits: Go Penang

Murals started to become a big thing in Penang after the ‘Little Children on a Bicycle’ mural piece surfaced! People would flock to Penang just for an instagram shot with this masterpiece. Then, more and more murals started to surface. In fact, you can even go on a mural walking tour. So, lucky you, you can do your mural tour whilst running TPS 2017!

What are you waiting for? Get your ahma, gong gong, daddy, mummy, pakcik, makcik, little nieces, little nephews, son, daughters, dogs and cats (we aren’t being serious) and show up for TPS 2017! Let’s #TranscendOurselves together.

Thunder & Lightning – Why You Should Take Note.

Joey
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0
Thunder & Lightning – Why You Should Take Note.

Upon a sighting of a looming dark cloud, most of us would be either scrambling to get shelter or standing at our void deck wondering if we should still go ahead with a quick run around the block. Most times, we choose to stay in but we are all guilty of those few instances where we decide to just heck it and take a chance, despite the roaring thunder and flashes of lightning.

What we don’t know is the danger we are putting ourselves in each time we make that kind of decision. Why? Well, here are some things you may wish to know before you consider running in the rain again.

#1 With thunder comes lightning and lightning can bring death

I’m not trying to scare you but the fact that lightning kills about 54 people in a year and injures hundreds should be good enough a reason for you to not attempt another run-in with it. And if you are thinking getting injured by lightning isn’t a big deal, note that those who do may suffer from long-term symptoms like memory loss, attention deficits, stiff joints, fatigue, weakness, muscle spasms, depression, and more.

#2 If you have forgotten, water is a good conductor of electricity

Photo Credits: Experience Project

Once you get wet from the rain, it doesn’t really matter if you are running under a slew of trees or trying to shield yourself with your (wet) towel. If you remember anything from your schooling days, it is the knowledge that water conducts electricity. What does this say? Well, rain is water and lightning is electricity so you make the connection. And lightning has never shown any mercy nor preference for the things (or people), it strikes so don’t make yourself one of its victims for nothing.

#3 In certain cases, a crack of thunder could cause deafness

When you are sheltered in your home or office, the sound of thunder may be buffered against your walls and thus not be as loud. However, when you are exposed to the elements, there is no guarantee that you will be able to find somewhere safe to hide or your ears will be protected enough by merely covering them with your hands. While thunder usually is harmless and just really loud (which scares the bejesus out of me and my dog sometimes), we all have definitely experienced cracks that have felt like they were whipping through our skulls and cause a ringing in our ears. Can you imagine the damage it can do to you without any form of a buffer?

#4 Thunder and lightning can take place without a downpour

Photo Credits: Fit Day

When we hear thunder and lightning, we immediately assume that it is going to rain. However, these can still occur without an imminent downpour. And while you may think that you won’t be harmed since you are dry, you are wrong. Lightning has been known to be able to strike objects and people from as far as a kilometre away and it can bounce. Yes, lightning can bounce off surfaces and strike whatever is in the way. So it doesn’t mean that just because you aren’t wet from rain means you can just throw all caution to the wind and go on a run while it’s thundering and striking.

Detoxification: What Is The Best Way To Do It And Why?

Joey
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0
Detoxification: What Is The Best Way To Do It And Why?

Before you embark on any diet plan, most people will recommend for you to do a cleanse of your body internally. This is to remove the toxins and make it easier for your body to absorb the good stuff and of course, get rid of the bad ones as you progress.

How Intense Can Detox Plans Get?

Photo Credits: Detox Diet Plan

Detox plans can last from three days to two weeks, depending on how intense a plan you decide to get onboard on. There are literally hundreds of ways to go about the detoxification process but I personally always prefer those that are natural so as to cause your body as little harm and shock as possible.

Is There A Best Way To Detoxify?

As many plans as there are online, the best will always be the one that works best for you. If you are someone like me who has to be productive during office hours on weekdays, the grapefruit diet or clean food diet will work well. If your schedule isn’t as restrictive, you may consider doing meal replacements like starting with replacing one meal, preferably dinner, with a detoxifying smoothie. Once your body gets used to this, you can replace another meal with the smoothie to speed up the process. But of course, do not do it if it’s going to cause you to crash.

So What Is The Ultimate Goal Of Detoxification And What Result Should Be Expected?

Basically, the final result of the process should be you losing most of your water retention (especially for women), and getting your mind alert and body psyched for the healthier diet and lifestyle that’s about to come. You should lose some weight and actually see the results.
However, as beneficial as detox plans are, they should be kept to a maximum of two weeks, especially if they are of the more intense type. Any longer and the results may backfire. But of course you need to be consistent in your regiment and keep up with the healthy lifestyle even after the end of your first detox session to achieve the best results for your body. It is highly recommended that you do a detox session once every couple of months to maintain the “cleanliness” of your insides and keep your “engines” working at their optimal.

Read More:

  1. Health Check: 20 – 29 Years Old 
  2. 5 Reasons You Should Totally Date A Runner 
  3. 5 Basic Types Of Runs All Runners Need

Explore Singapore By Running – 5 Must-Do Routes For All Tourists

Joey
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0
Explore Singapore By Running – 5 Must-Do Routes For All Tourists

Whether you are a local or tourist, anyone who knows anything about Singapore will tell you that we have one of the hottest and most humid weathers around. So when it comes to exercising and in particular, running, we probably have one of the strongest hearts and lungs with all the moisture and gravity weighing us down.

But for those of you who are in the country for a break and want to experience running a few kilometres, here are five highly recommended routes for you to try out.

#1 Marina Bay

Photo Credits: Your Singapore

Considering most of you will likely be putting up somewhere central, Marina Bay may be one of the best route choices. Besides the fact that the location is rather easily accessible, it is also a perfect spot for checking out the city-scape of Singapore, especially our iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, the Esplanade and the Merlion, just to name a few.

And of course, since you will be running alongside the waterfront, you will also get to enjoy the cool breeze, which is a great relief in our heat.

#2  Sentosa

Besides heading there for the beaches, Universal Studios or our giant Merlion, Sentosa is also a great place to do a morning or evening run. There’s ample foliage to keep cool and doing some running on the sand can be a boost to your stamina and endurance.

Photo Credits: Sentosa

The best thing about running on Sentosa is the fact that you can choose routes that are more challenging or one that will allow you to check out the sights while you are at it. Not to mention it being an experience running away from the mainland.

#3 The Southern Ridges

If you are one who craves a good, hilly run, you may want to try out the terrains of the Southern Ridges located along Buona Vista. The location may be a little out of the way but if it’s something intense you want, this may just be it.

Photo Credits: Uli

And since it winds through Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Park and Kent Ridge Park and ends in West Coast Park, you will be guaranteed awesome views and an excellent workout.

#4 Kranji Heritage Trail

Want something with a little more history? Then perhaps a run along this trail will do the trick. A relatively new trail, it connects 14 famous countryside historical sites, you can be sure to get your fill of Singapore back in the day.

However, do note that this run is a rather long one, with 8km of trail to complete, although it is not a difficult run since the terrain is mostly mild.

#5 Dempsey Hill Botanical Garden Trail

This is possibly one of the better running routes in town, especially if you are thinking of getting some brunch or hanging out with some friends over a cuppa after. Also a rather easy trail, you start off from Dempsey Road Clubhouse and end off back at the same spot.

Photo Credits: Tripadvisor 

This is definitely going to be a long run (14km long to be exact), but you can be assured that you will be enjoying lots of the city view, people watch and also some form of nature along the way. Not to mention you will return to a host of restaurants and cafes for a late afternoon munchie.

Managing Stress In Our Current Environment

Joey
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0
Managing Stress In Our Current Environment

We often hear people around us talking about stress – how stressful the work place is, how stressed they are with managing a family, how stressful school can be. Most of us immediately think of the worst case scenario when we hear the word “stress” but really, there are varying levels of it and honestly, different people experience stress differently too.

So what does it really mean to manage stress, especially in our current high paced society? How does one even get around to doing so when he/she is already so highly strung from work or family? Fortunately, there are many ways to do so, some from external help and a few from within you.

Internal:

#1 Take deep breaths

When you start breathing deeply after a stressful encounter, you will feel your heart steadying itself and your mind clearer. When you don’t feel so anxious, you will be better able to rationalise things logically and make better decisions to settle things properly.

#2  Think happy thoughts

How many of us have done this before? I know I have. In highly stressful situations when you think you are never ever going to get anything done, anxiety can run high and you may lose your cool-headedness in dealing with the situation at hand. Telling yourself to “think happy thoughts” can actually help to stabilise your emotions and allow you to think about what exactly can be done to save you from any further trouble.

External:

#1 Have a sweet treat

Photo Credits: Black Star Pastry

Probably one of the easiest and most satisfying ways is by having your favourite ice cream or dessert. Let the feelings of euphoria rule over you for a bit and you will notice how much easier it is to manage the situation and get it under control in the shortest time possible.

#2 Stop whatever you are doing

You can always get back to it when you are feeling better and calmer. When you are highly strung and emotional, you never get things done properly or say the things you mean so it’s always a good idea to just drop whatever you are doing, step out and go walk it off for a bit. When you return, everything will seem so much clearer and so much easier to deal with.

#3 Don’t try to fight it

Image credit: Crazy Happy Healthy

If you are stressed, then admit that you are. Talk to someone if you must to take your mind off or switch your focus to another project that is less taxing. Making yourself even more stressed by trying to push forward is not going to be good for your overall well-being and definitely will not reflect well in your work.

Read More:

  1. Suffering From Insomnia – 3 Remedies For A Good Night’s Rest
  2. Sensitive Skin And Exercise
  3. Debunking 3 Popular Race Myths

Four Wheels Good, Two Wheels Better?

Nigel Dawson
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1
Four Wheels Good, Two Wheels Better?

I’m a cyclist, I make no apologies for it, although sometimes in Singapore, I often feel I need to.

When your average Singaporean finds out I ride a bike on the main road, they cry “whoaaah dangerous lah!” But is it really that dangerous?

The last government statistics show that 17 cyclists died on the roads in Singapore in 2015. Compare this to London England where the average number of deaths per year is just over 17, (data taken from the past 2003-2013). So cycling is Singapore is arguably comparatively as dangerous as London, not a place most people would associate with dangerous roads! Let us not forget that in England, it is illegal to cycle on the path. Therefore 100% of the cyclists are sharing their space with cars and trucks with big scary teeth.

When I cycle to work I use the roads, why?….The paths are full of people walking: because that is what they are designed for. On my short 11km journey I see perhaps another 50 cyclists. Am I worried I will die that morning?… NO, and this is why:

I’m an engineer and I like maths, especially probability (some say I’m a nerd, don’t get me started on Star Wars). Probability tells me that I will make it home on a night to give my wife the loving attention she so graciously deserves. The percentage of cyclists that die on the road every year is tiny. But of those cyclists; who are the most vulnerable?

  • Idiots who are not wearing helmets.
  • Cyclists wearing headphones), effectively rendering themselves deaf to dangers around them.
  • Those who consider themselves mobile discos with Bluetooth speakers.
  • One handed riders carrying umbrellas like some weird kind of Mary Poppins.
  • Invisible riders with no lights. (In the dark, we cannot see you, you NEED lights)
  • Riders who think red traffic lights don’t apply to them.
  • Riders catching Pokemon or watching movies.
  • Those who like to play chicken with oncoming cars.
  • Those who cycle in the gutter.
  • Those that think their flip flops are a suitable substitute for brakes.
  • Those who don’t know what a hand signal is for. (It is essential that riders signal using their arm when turning corners)

Now if you don’t understand why any of behaviour above makes those cyclists more likely to die than me, then maybe my blog is not for you. These things are FUNDAMENTALLY DANGEROUS.

Not only do I see this every day, but I see them all displayed by ONE cyclist. (Well maybe not the headphones and speaker together, that would just be silly). Therefore if anybody is going to die on the roads today, the probability would indicate it’s not going to be me. Of course I could be unlucky, but I could also have a heart attack on my next marathon (I’m nearly 50 after all) or trip and fall off my balcony. Life is unpredictable.

Imagine a car driver in Singapore drove a car with flat tires, no brakes, no lights, only ever drove one handed, watched movies on their phone when driving and drove on the wrong side of the road. An accident waiting to happen? You betcha!

The authorities in Singapore take great care in educating people on riding bicycles on paths responsibly, but should the cyclists be on the paths? That’s for people to walk and run and read their phones whilst doing so (don’t start me on people staring at their phones.) Bikes are ideal for roads. They are fast and sleek and cool!

I may not be fast, but my bike is.

Now I could shout about the incredible bad behaviour of some car drivers towards bikes, but that’s not for today (maybe the next time a car driver tries to break my elbow with his mirror, I will be moved to write a piece on them.) Before we launch a tirade of abuse on car drivers, cyclists need to get their crap together and start acting responsibly. I grew up in England. At 4 years old I learned to ride a bike and at 11 years old I rode on the road. A cycling proficiency certificate was compulsory in our school at 9 years old. Where’s the compulsory training in Singapore?

Come on people, it’s really quite simple, BE SAFE. Wear helmets, use lights, sort your bike out keep your bike in good condition, ride like every car driver is a lunatic out to kill you and most importantly, position yourself on the road like you have a right to be there. Until they introduce a COE for cycles, we have every right to be there, we reduce congestion, help the environment, improve our health and have more fun! (And we are all really lovely people).

Only when, as a biking community, we can display common sense and good road craft, can we have the right to launch a scathing attack on idiot car drivers.

Don’t worry readers…. that blog’s coming.

Race Review: Teh Tarik Run 2017 (by Jilian)

Jillian
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2
Race Review: Teh Tarik Run 2017 (by Jilian)

The Teh Tarik Run, I believe is the first of its kind in the world and I was part of it today. The run took place at East Coast Park (near the seafood center). My boyfriend and I arrived at the race venue at 6.45 am as instructed in the race guide and we took a few photos while waiting for the flag-off.

A starting line like no others

How this run was conducted was that we would all fill up our tik-gongs (metal cans) with teh tarik first before running a 1 km lap. This process will be repeated 4 times as we finish 4 laps of 1 km. It sounded pretty rough at first… because I mean who would like running with liquid sloshing inside their stomach? But still, I thought the concept was really cool and wanted to give it a try. Plus they promised a buffet at the end of it… so all the more I should go right? 🙂

We filled up our tik-gongs with teh tarik and drank after we shouted ‘yum seng’ (cheers) together with the rest of the runners at the event and we also sang the national anthem. We were flagged-off at 7.30 am sharp. The distance felt rather short actually because we had to U-turn back to where we filled up our tik-gongs and then start another lap again. So it was basically round and round. It was a relaxing run on a Sunday morning. There was minimal uphills and downhills. There were a few occasions when we had to stop for passing cyclists but that was okay since we were sharing the park with them anyways~ Everyone was cooperative and friendly towards each other.

My run was however disrupted on a few occasions due to participants who walked on the path. As this is a fun run, there will be some who would walk throughout the whole course and it’s okay. But what they shouldn’t do was to walk side-by-side of each other and block up the entire path. The path was rather wide and they still managed to block it. People had to try to squeeze in between them to get through. But they still didn’t move to the side and continued, which I felt was very inconsiderate. It’s time that the organizers of runs remind people of the running etiquette that walkers should keep left. We have to make people aware of such running etiquette so as to make these runs more pleasant for everyone as this is not an isolated case. Hence I fell that the organizers of races can help by reminding everyone by either mentioning it in their race guides or on the day itself before flag-off. It will definitely help a lot.

Anyways, my boyfriend and I ended the run with a sprint towards the finishing line. We just did it for fun actually since the path was rather empty. We then went to collect our finisher tik gongs.

Finisher tik gong
The other side of the finisher tik gong

We waited for awhile to cool ourselves down before heading to the photo booth for some fun shots and then off we went for the buffet! We were so excited about the buffet. He was excited for prata and I was excited about potong! The queue for the food was rather fast although with limited choices like dried noodles, bee hoon and porridge. There were more teh for us but I had enough of teh so I bought bottled water at $1.50. Imagine our disappointment when we saw the food choices because there was no prata and potong in sight 🙁 The organizer did explain to us that they did not have enough pratas to go around and there was something wrong with the potong delivery (?) I couldn’t hear clearly because it was too noisy. But in short, we are not having pratas and potongs. The crews were really apologetic about it and so yeah… we didn’t blame them.

Overall, the run was really enjoyable. The organizers and volunteers were really friendly people and that made the experience 10 times better. There were lots of photographers at the event too! Which was really cool! We kept smiling for the camera 🙂 And needless to say, there were more than enough hydration points. Although I wonder how much can teh help in hydration…

Because this has been such an enjoyable run with really friendly and fun volunteers, I will definitely keep a look out for other events that they will be organizing. Good job guys 🙂

PS. Just in case you all are curious how the race pack looked like, here’s a photo!

Teh Tarik Run 2017 Race Pack

Singapore ParkRun, a Catalyst for Running Tourism

Nigel Dawson
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Singapore ParkRun, a Catalyst for Running Tourism

I know most people write race reviews based on paid events, but why not choose one of the many varied, free to enter races that happen in Singapore? That’s because there aren’t many… but wait, what’s this, a running event that’s free? Yes, West Coast Parkrun.

Parkrun started in 2004 when 13 friends decided to hold a timed 5km race in Bushy park near London. In the proceeding 13 years it has spread to 14 countries, from the USA to Singapore. Once just 13 runners, there are now over 2.1million runners in the movement and over 23 million Parkruns have taken place globally with 112 million kilometres being run, pretty impressive eh?

What is surprising, however, is the event is totally free. No registration fee and no 2 hour long queues to collect your race pack. – WHAT LAH??? you ask, no goody bag?

Absolutely, there is no free running vest, no medal, no finishers-T and no hydration stops (not that you need them… it’s only 5km for heavens sake….man up!) Actually, if I am honest, there is a free T shirt… once you have completed 50 races. The hydration stop is the McDonalds, where everybody meets afterwards to chat and replenish the calories with greasy cardboard disguised as food.

The event, held in both the East Coast park and the West Coast park every Saturday morning at 7:30am, is 100% run by willing unpaid volunteers and it is the West Coast park that we focus on here.

Each week a volunteer will be the race director, organising marshals, timekeepers, photographers and token distribution (the way you get your time). They meet in the middle of West Coast park, close to the McDonalds and after a short briefing at 7:30am, the group head off to the start line for the 5 km figure of eight course. As most of the attendees are keen runners, the group naturally organises themselves into fastest at the front (a welcome diversion from the usual chaos that is the start of runs like the Sundown). The timekeeper shouts go and… off they race.

And they’re off… the front runners often finish sub 20 min.

Speed is the order of the day, every week some runners may finish under 20min for 5km, this week 6 runners finished under the magical 20min mark. This week, the crowd numbered 90 runners but can vary from 60 to well over 100. There is no maximum time for the event and there is always a tail runner to make sure they leave no-one behind. Some weekends people walk the course (just like most half marathons in Singapore then eh?). The organisation welcomes anybody and no age limit applies, juniors are welcome, although under 11 year olds must run with a parent.

The author taking the chance to scare small children

The course is more challenging than the East Coast Parkrun with more elevation and twists and turns. This is borne out by my PB for West Coast being 30 seconds slower than the East Coast. The figure of eight course is enjoyable and at that time in the morning, the paths have yet to fill up with wobbly cyclists and unruly dog walkers, which easies the route somewhat. At the finish line your time is recorded and you receive a tag, which you scan, along with your personal barcode (which you receive online when you register). Within a short time, you receive an email with your position, time, age related statistics and whether you managed a PB. As I write, my wife is dancing around pleased with her new PB this morning (I put it down to the $200 new runners I bought her last week).

Glorious finish from the tail runner.

One fantastic feature of the global phenomenon is, it doesn’t matter which park run you are at, your barcode is valid. Every week West Coast Parkrun plays host to so-called “Parkrun tourists” (yes, it really is a thing) that travel the world seeking out the local Parkruns to add to their online stats. I have made many friends through the organisation and even taken Singapore tourists around the city sightseeing after the run (once I’ve had a shower of course).

If you want an excuse not to get drunk on Friday night, or you want a hangover cure on Saturday morning, go down to West Coast Parkrun and join the fun.

Oh, I forgot the runner’s entitlements:

  • Friendship
  • Fun
  • A sense of achievement
  • A reason to get out of bed
  • A chance to be a member of the largest running family in the world

… medal and finsher-T collectors, need not apply.

> Official website

Perks of Running at Penang with TPS 2017

Team JustRunLah!
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Perks of Running at Penang with TPS 2017

The Performance Series 2017 is a series of running races throughout the year around some of the most iconic landmarks. In Malaysia, TPS will have the first stop in one of most touristic locations: Penang on 9 July 2017!

“Running is the cheapest medicine in the world, yet it also requires effort and commitment.”

Here is what to expect from TPS Run @ Esplanade, Penang:

– Improved running experience at scenic route

You can go for a fun run of 5km, 10km, or challenge yourself with the brand new Half Marathon category. TPS believes you can challenge yourself and achieve even more. Believe in yourself and aim for that satisfaction and high of achieving a half marathon. Register you and your friends now, and #TranscendTogether.

– Top quality, free runner’s entitlement

  • Race T-Shirt (All runners)
  • Finisher Medal (All runners)
  • Finisher tee-shirt (10km / 21Km runners)
  • Race Bib
  • E-Certificate
  • Sponsor products
  • Free Extra 4th finisher medal (Bundle owners only)
  • Free medal hanger (Bundle owners only)

– Unique Finisher Medal

Registration Fees:

21km: RM 90
10km: RM 70
5km: RM 50

– Extra: Get a Free Medal Hanger

Surprise surprise! The #TranscendYourself medal hanger is for you to display your collection of 2017 medals. In order to reward your spirit and determination to complete a series of 3 races, those who have registered for the bundle Malaysia package will receive a free exclusive TPS Medal Hanger.

How Lasik Can Help Runners/Sports Enthusiast?

Joey
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How Lasik Can Help Runners/Sports Enthusiast?

How many times have we been so lazy to have to put on our contact lenses just to go for a run around the estate? I am guilty of a couple of such times but think about it from a woman’s point of view for a minute. Having to put on our sports bra and exercise outfit is already tiring enough, what more the struggle of putting on the lenses, just so we can go on a 45 to one hour routine. And don’t get me started on those who have no choice but to wear their glasses.

I’m sure many of us have considered lasik but will it really help to make our lives easier? Pretty much. Here are some reasons why getting the procedure done will be beneficial for those who work out, especially if you do so every day.

#1 No more drooping glasses!

Photo Credits: Askideas

I remember those days when contact lenses weren’t a thing yet and I had no choice but to wear my spectacles for Physical Education sessions and my own exercise routines. What I had to do to keep my glasses in place (sort of), was by tying a rubber band hoop around each handle and looping it over each ear. Sometimes, the rubber would start biting and it would hurt quite a bit, or the glasses would still “hop” when I did jumping jacks.

In this case, lasik will help to remove this hassle and ensure that no part of your face is being hurt in the process.

#2 No more blurred vision!

Photo Credits: Blurred Vision

Spectacles wearers, you will remember the times when your glasses fogged up in the middle of a run or a Zumba session due to condensation and sweat. Contact lens wearers, you will remember the times when your lenses would suddenly go dry and you will be struggling to get it moist by blinking continuously to get rid of the fuzziness and the discomfort. With lasik though, you don’t have to worry about those things happening because well, your own cornea wouldn’t suddenly decide to blur up your vision in the middle of a run would it? Even wiping away your sweat is so much easier with your glasses or contact lenses getting in the way.

#3 Less time spent getting ready!

Or cleaning up, in fact. Some of you may be saying, “But I’m already so used to putting in and taking out my contact lenses, it only takes me less than 20 seconds to do so.” So do I. But the point here is, without the need for contact lenses, can you imagine how much more motivated you will be to run out the door for your run as soon as you are dressed? This is especially useful on the weekdays when most of us are already tired by the time we get home so the drive to go and exercise can be zero to nothing. If all we had to do was slip on our workout clothes and walk out the door, that would probably encourage many more to stick to their workout schedules more diligently!

Read More:

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Explore Auckland By Running – 5 Must-Do Routes For All Tourists

Joey
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Explore Auckland By Running – 5 Must-Do Routes For All Tourists

For those of you who are lucky enough to visit this beautiful city will know that Auckland offers a plethora of exciting seaside views, activities and even on land natural wonders to behold. To many travellers, this is the land of all things Lord of the Rings which, of course, you will see several familiar sculptures and sceneries of.

So for a country with so many parks and natural reserves, there are bound to be awesome running trails for those of you who wish to keep in shape even while you are abroad. Here are 5 trails for you to discover and try if you wish to.

#1 Central City

Photo Credits: Panoramio

If you happen to be putting up somewhere in or close to the CBD, you may want to try out this trail that’s popular amongst those who work around the area. Besides the fact that you will be able to do some people watching while you are at it and enjoy some of the city views, you can also choose how hilly you will like your terrain to be. A recommended route will be to run along the waterfront before heading through Victoria Park and onto Franklin Road. Work your way up Ponsonby before a leisurely downhill jog back into the city centre. However, if hills aren’t your thing, you can skip Ponsonby for the new magenta Lightpath from Nelson Street to Karangahape Road.

#2 Coast To Coast

Photo Credits: Kiwi Track

Fancy a route that will take you through the city and also the countryside? This long route (about 16km in total), will bring you from the waterfront in the CBD to a completely different stretch of ocean a few suburbs over. As the entire route may take anywhere between three and six hours long, your overall fitness level will also determine how much of the awesome variety of city and residential streets, parks and volcanoes you will witness. Remember to wear comfortable shoes though! You don’t want to end up with painful blisters or sore feet after everything, ruining your entire experience.

#3 Tamaki Drive

Photo Credits: Sandy Austin

Another route that offers the best of city views and can be leisurely or challenging, depending on how you feel. The route starts at Orakei Domain, passing the popular Mission Bay and the very cool Kohimarama, before you finish up in St Heliers. It’s about 5km one way and the end is a perfect spot for a post workout juice or coffee. For those of you who crave something a little more intense, you can run up to the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial that commemorates the first Labour prime minister and founder of the welfare state.

#4 Takapuna beachfront

Photo Credits: Takapuna Beach Holiday Park

Roughly 6km for the entire circuit, this seaside suburb is the ideal spot for a jog or just a leisurely stroll. If you decide to test this route out, a suggestion will be to head along the shore line over sand, rocks and narrow pathway from the boat ramp at Takapuna, past the houses looking out over Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf, up to Milford, and then inland along the marina before returning to Takapuna.

#5 .Kitekite Track

Photo Credits: Little Epic Missions

If a nice run through nature is something you prefer, you can do so with this 1.8km long track into the Waitakere Ranges. The route starts at the carpark at the top of the Glen Esk Stream and has a few hilly sections. Don’t let that put you off though! Overall, the track isn’t too strenuous and you can even take a breather on the few seats available along the way. And if you feel up for it, you can also take a dip in one of the great watering holes once you reach the falls.

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Explore Bangkok By Running – 5 Must Do Routes

Joey
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2
Explore Bangkok By Running – 5 Must Do Routes

Bangkok is one of those countries I share a love-hate relationship with. While the food and shopping there are to die for, the weather is so, darn, hot. I know it sounds weird coming from someone who was born and bred in a tropical country that knows no other weather except hot and humid, but you have to also know that Bangkok is usually a few degrees hotter and that makes a heck of a difference.

Still, if you are there on holiday and wish to work off some of the extra calories but don’t happen to be staying in a hotel that has a gym, it’s not the end of the world. Here are 5 trails you can try out which will provide some shade and ensure a good workout at the same time.

#1 Lumphini Park

Photo Credits: Bangkok Lumpini Park

The name is well-known amongst locals and tourists alike and that is also a reason why Lumphini Park is so popular amongst the various groups for a morning or evening stroll, jog or Tai Chi session. Located on Rama IV Road, across the road from Silom Road and Dusit Thani hotel, the park is wide open and provides plenty of shade, great for keeping cool, and is constantly filled with serious and avid runners. Besides not being very long (just about 2.5km for one lap), another plus point about this spot is that there are showers and lockers available for rent to keep your belongings. However, as busy as this park may be, it is highly recommended that you do not go at night for fear of robbery or any kind of assault that may happen.

#2 Suan Rod Fai

Photo Credits: Trek Earth

If you know about Chatuchak market, you will be able to locate this running spot. Quiet and spacious, this place is a favourite of the lower Lad Phrao office workers as there is plenty of shade from the trees and even a swimming pool. Spanning just about 3km per lap, this park also provides showers, lockers and even bikes to rent if you feel up for it. Do note that the weekends can get quite rowdy and crowded though and be very careful when you are on a run as the concrete pathways are often pretty uneven. You don’t want to be injured while on holiday would you?

#3 Benjasiri Park

Photo Credits: Bangkok Travel Ideas

This is a place where the wealthy and beautiful congregate, it seems. And it is no wonder that this park is so easily accessible (just next to BTS Phrom Phong). Apparently, the crowd here is made up of Japanese expats and the rich and beautiful elite of Bangkok, which of course then makes it obvious that there are showers and lockers for rent to make sure you don’t look awkward and clumsy amongst the rest of the good-looking runners around you. The route isn’t long at all, only about 700m per lap, but it’s definitely a great place to people watch and maybe be on the lookout for a companion too.

#4 Benjakitti Park

Photo Credits: Travel Fish

This park can be considered a more tranquil alternative to Lumphini Park since there is usually considerably less people and more picturesque. Located right next to Queen Sirikit Convention Centre and close to both BTS and MRT stations, Benjakitti Park is popular with people living and working around Asoke and Klong Toei. But while the 1.8km per lap trail is a good length for a run, there aren’t any showers or lockers for rent here so do come prepared with either as little as you can manage or a proper carrier to make sure you can run but still be comfortable with all your necessities on your back.

#5 Suan Luang Rama IX Park

Photo Credits: BKK Kids

Although not exactly located in the best of places, this park has its fair share of advantages still. For one, it is very, very spacious and has plenty of gardens of different shapes and sizes along the way for you to admire. Two, it is close to a Rod Fai Market which means you could do some shopping after your run before heading back to the hotel for a shower. And while the lap distance is pretty awesome, especially if you are looking to do a longer run, do note that there are no BTS or MRT to this place so if you want to check this place out, you have to be prepared to brave the horrendous Bangkok traffic.

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