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Top 5 Richest Marathons in the World

Shu
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Top 5 Richest Marathons in the World

For years, many marathons did not offer prize money to its winners, but this has since changed. Prize money is now competitive among marathons, and is used to attract the top runners from around the world to compete in their races. Here are some of the top few marathons over the world that offer the highest prize money:

5. Seoul International Marathon

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Celebrating its 85th year running, the Seoul marathon in South Korea is one of the most prestigious races with approximately 25,000 runners competing each year. The champion male and female finishers get to bring home $80,000 provided that they finish under 2:10:00 and 2:24:00 respectively ($40,000 if they do not meet the target time). World record bonuses are $500,000 for men, and $300,000 for women. There is also a time bonus of $200,000 for sub-2:04:00 (male) and sub-2:18:00 (female); and other time bonuses amounting down to $5,000.

4. Bank of America Chicago Marathon

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This coveted race is a showcase of some of the top marathoners in the country. With about 45,000 participants, 1.7 million spectators, and a half a million dollar prize purse, this is one of Chicago’s biggest annual events, drawing people from all over the world to the fast, flat course. The prize money for winning the 2015 race was $100,000, plus $75,000 if you set a course record and time bonuses (non-cumulative) of $55,000 and below.

3. TCS New York City Marathon

NYCMarathon

The first NYC Marathon was held in 1970, entirely in Central Park, with only 127 entrants, 55 finishers and a lone female racer, who dropped out because of an illness. With an entry fee of only $1, the prize purse was only $1,000, and the awards for winners were inexpensive wristwatches and recycled baseball or bowling trophies.  Over the years, the race has grown and the course has been brought to the streets of New York, while the prize has also become much more competitive. Today, the TCS New York City Marathon prize purse totals a guaranteed $705,000. The men’s and women’s champion receive $100,000 each, with an extra $50,000 for a time of sub-2:05:30 (men) and sub-2:22:30 (women).

2. Boston Marathon

The elite men start the 117th running of the Boston Marathon, in Hopkinton, Mass., Monday, April 15, 2013. (AP Photo/Stew Milne)

The Boston Marathon is the oldest marathon in the world and the second longest continuously run footrace in the US. The top male and female finishers each receives $150,000, with second place earning $75,000.  The total prize purse is a whopping $850,000, which has been sponsored by John Hancock Financial since 1986. There is a bonus prize of $50,000 for breaking the world best time, and $25,000 for breaking the course record. The most rewarded Boston runner of all time was four times champion Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot, a Kenyan runner who has earned a total of $469,000 from the Boston race alone.

1. Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon

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While the glamorous city is known for its impressive skyscrapers and luxurious lifestyle, Dubai Marathon does live up to its city’s reputation too. In fact, the Dubai Marathon is the world’s richest marathon with the most expensive prize money of US$200,000 for first place winners and an additional US$100,000 for marathon world record bonus. In January of 2008, the Dubai Marathon was the richest long distance running event in history. The winners received $250,000 (more than double any prize money to that date) and a million dollar offer from Dubai Holding if they set a world best. Unfortunately, no record was set that day, as Haile Gebrselassie won in 2:04:53, which, on that date in 2008, only ranked second in marathon history. He went on to set the 2008 record later that year in the Berlin Marathon with a time of 2:03:59.

Abbott World Marathon Majors

On the other hand, Abbott World Marathon Majors determines the world’s best male and female marathoners, awarding $500,000 each to the men’s and women’s champions. The prize money will be awarded to the top male and female point earners in Qualifying Races, after each full year of competition. This can potentially increase the prize money of any of the marathon winners of the following Qualifying Races:

  • Tokyo Marathon
  • Boston Marathon
  • Virgin Money London Marathon
  • BMW BERLIN-MARATHON
  • Bank of America Chicago Marathon
  • TCS New York City Marathon
  • Olympic Marathon
  • IAAF World Championships Marathon

Quick links:

  1. World’s Bucket-List Marathons & Races

Should You Get Those Running Tights?

Team JustRunLah!
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Should You Get Those Running Tights?

You have seen other runners wearing them and the tights sure add to their cool factor. However, due to humid weather here in Singapore, most of us runners are used to running in shorts and may even irk at the thought of having to wear long bottoms just for going out, much less for running. Sure, shorts are lightweight and provide us with the extra breeze when we run, but running tights can be so appealing too. While running tights may not be very wallet-friendly, they have plenty benefits for us runners:

Protection from elements

Running tights provide an extra layer of protection for your legs while you run, without compromising on comfort and functionality. They can prove to be an essential piece of your running wardrobe, as they protect the skin on your legs from the elements, whether it is the blazing hot sun or the chilly winds. Running tights are also great for runners who enjoy trail running or running overseas, when you will be exposed to different terrain types or weather conditions, and having your legs covered can give you that extra protection from scratches or insect bites.

Photo credits: irunfar.com
Photo credits: irunfar.com

Enhanced blood circulation and support to your muscles

Seams on running tights are often designed to follow the lines of your muscles, even providing support to the major muscles like your hamstrings. Tights made from compression fabrics are supposed to fit like a second skin on your legs, giving you extra support and increased circulation to the legs. This is especially important for long-distance runners as enhanced overall circulation to your legs can help to decrease energy expenditure at prolonged speeds, potentially giving you that extra edge during the last stretch of your run.

Decreased resistance

While the wind resistance from a pair of running shorts is likely minimal, running tights create a streamlined profile that can help reduce wind resistance and are often contoured so that your clothes never affect your overall stride. On the other hand, shorts that fit loosely can catch pockets of wind and also make you more susceptible to chafing while running, which may affect your overall performance. This occurs when the fabric of the shorts is moving and rubbing against the skin especially during a long-distance run.

Self-expression

Running tights today have evolved from yesterdays. There are so many different designs available in the market now and this once-dull-looking apparel has become a fashion statement especially for female runners. Who says we can’t look good while we are running?

Photo credits: Fitness Apparel Express
Photo credits: Fitness Apparel Express

Tips for buying running tights

  1. Get total coverage tights that cover to your ankle if you are running in cold places. Otherwise, a knee length one will do for warm weather conditions.
  2. Check the opacity of your tights under strong light, you wouldn’t want to be caught with wardrobe malfunction problems during a run!
  3. It is more preferable to get a pair that comes with pockets, so u can keep your ID, debit card, keys (also making sure that your tights do not come off when you run).

Great Eastern Women’s Run 2015 : Organisers to Provide Updates on Haze Situation

Team JustRunLah!
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Great Eastern Women’s Run 2015 : Organisers to Provide Updates on Haze Situation

The past few months have not been a good  time for races due to the prolonged haze period this year. Great Eastern Women’s Run (GEWR) 2015 will be happening this Sunday and organisers have been closely monitoring the situation leading up to Race Day. The organisers place great importance on the health of race participants and contingency plans have also been put in place in the event that the haze situation warrants a race cancellation.

We can expect an update on the race status at 8.30pm on Saturday, 31 October via SMS and on the event website, and GEWR Facebook page. The second update will be made at 2.30am on Sunday, 1 November.

The organisers will be referring to the National Environmental Agency (NEA)’s PSI guidelines, proceeding with the race only when it is a moderate PSI level of 100 and below. However, should the PSI level hit 101 and above, which in accordance with NEA guidelines is considered unsuitable for prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion, the race will be cancelled.

In the event of a race cancellation, alternative collection arrangements of the Finishers’ entitlements will be provided for the runners. They can collect them from Great Eastern Centre at 1 Pickering Street. More details will be shared on the event website and Facebook page.

Colin Chan, Chief Marketing Officer,  Great Eastern Life, commented, “We understand that the participants are looking forward to the event and, on our part, preparations have been going on for more than half a year. However, we place the health of our runners, working crew and volunteers as utmost priority and will only proceed with the Race under acceptable conditions. We seek everyone’s understanding on this and I encourage all participants to look out for our updates.”

For more information, please visit greateaasternwomensrun.com or www.facebook.com/GreatEasternWomensRunSingapore.

Congratulations to JRL Academy Head Coach and Trainer

Team JustRunLah!
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Congratulations to JRL Academy Head Coach and Trainer

For 5 seconds into the race, Lexxus Tan lead the race. He finished the Osaka Marathon 2015 in 2hrs 50min 11seconds. Beating his time at Gold Coast Marathon 2015 of 2hrs 54mins. At 43 years of age, Lexxus is the top veteran runner in Singapore. The only coach currently training and coaching full time in Singapore always believe in setting the right examples for the academy runners to follow, ran hard, ran well.

Lexxus: “Head wind was so strong! Not good for a light runner like me!”
Lexxus: “Head wind was so strong! Not good for a light runner like me!”

Assistant trainer to Lexxus, Liu Zhiyong finished the Osaka Marathon 2015 in 2hrs 59mins. Beating his time at Gold Coast Marathon 2015 of 3hrs 00mins. At 32 years of age, Zhiyong is considered a late boomer in the event. An audit manager for the past 8 years joined the family at JustRunLah three months back, believes that enjoying one’s passion is the key to all success.

Zhiyong: “Appreciating the race, taking in the awesome atmosphere and enjoying the experience were my objectives today. I'm happy with a good timing at the end."
Zhiyong: “Appreciating the race, taking in the awesome atmosphere and enjoying the experience were my objectives today. I’m happy with a good timing at the end.”

Congratulations to both runners, may the both of you scale greater heights in the months to come.

Special mention for runners who have broken their personal best. Prasant Kannoth 3hrs 17mins (Previous PB: 3hrs 42mins), Kelvin Chua 3hrs 32mins (Previous PB: 3hrs 35mins) and Mark Chng 3hrs 35mins and Susan Tan for completing her first marathon in 4hrs 34mins.

All smiles from the F1 Runners
All smiles from the F1 Runners

As our head coach’s famous quote, “With dedication, discipline and determination, every dream can be achieved.”

We thank Flight Centre Active Travel, our academy’s travel partner for the planning and making this overseas race a successful and enjoyable one. With most runners enjoying their trip, we look forward to Penang Marathon with excitement.

We were born to run. Run the world, one race at a time.

 

In Land of the Rising Sun with FCAT for Osaka Marathon 2015: Race Expo

Team JustRunLah!
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In Land of the Rising Sun with FCAT for Osaka Marathon 2015: Race Expo

Day 2: Race Expo

While the race participants were eagerly queueing up for their individual race packs, the other side of the expo was also filled with energy coming from vendors engaging runners about their newest running products and services. Most activities at the booths were met with long queues of cheering crowds and curious runners. It was great to see all runners coming together to celebrate the one thing we all love – running. The race expo was also accompanied by a mega food expo showcasing the delicacies of Osaka, which provided a good platform runners to mingle around and learn about Osaka’s culture. And as expected of Japanese’s excellent service standards, the vendors and volunteers were very courteous and politely entertained every runners’ enquiries and requests.

[ot-video type=”youtube” url=”KtCCgu8lsG8″]

The Osaka Marathon 2015 Race Expo was definitely, one of the best race expos we had ever attended. Thank you to Flight Centre Active Travel for giving us the opportunity to experience the passion runners have for Osaka Marathon and a preview of the race on Sunday.

The event

osakamarathonlogoAn annual marathon road running event for men and women held in late October in the city of Osaka, Japan. Happening on Sunday, 25 October 2015, the 2015 Osaka Marathon is expecting a staggering 30,000 marathoners. There is also a “Challenge Run” covering a distance of 8.8km. The event will kick off at 8:55 a.m. with the wheelchair race, followed by the Marathon and Challenge Run at 9:00 a.m. Both marathoners and challenge runners will flag off at the exquisite Osaka Castle Park.

The event is jointly hosted by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations and Yomiuri Shimbun, a Japanese national newspaper. Runners are able to select the charity colours representing the charity theme and activities of the charitable organisation they wish to support: Red—to support your hopes to live, Orange—to assist your dreams, Yellow—to support families, Green—to conserve our natural environment, Light blue—to provide clean water, Navy—to brighten children’s future, and Purple—to preserve the beautiful Osaka city.

With FCAT you can combine your love of travel, fitness and adventure.

Click here to enquire about packages!

fcat flight centre active travel logo

Benefits Of Drinking Water At The Right Time

Shu
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0
Benefits Of Drinking Water At The Right Time

Our body is 2/3 made up of water and water helps to keep our body functioning properly. Although we may not be able to feel it, we are continuously losing water from skin evaporation, breathing, urine, and stool. Especially for us runners, we tend to lose more water content when we are working out; it is important for us to replenish and replace these losses daily to maintain a good health. Not having enough water can cause us to experience dehydration – which may result in lethargy, headaches, dry skin, bad breath and many more. In worse cases, it may even result in kidney stones or kidney failure. While it is recommended for us to drink 8 glasses of water to keep ourselves hydrated throughout the day, drinking water at different times of the day can also help our body in different ways. Find out what are the benefits drinking water can bring us:

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Top 3 Reasons to Run the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon 2015

Jarin T
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Top 3 Reasons to Run the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon 2015

The 20th Angkor Wat International Half Marathon 2015 (AWHM) is a world-bucket list and must-do race for runners all over the world. Manulife – one of the world’s leading life insurance companies, is the principal sponsor for this year’s AWHM, which will be taking place on 6 December 2015 at the majestic Angkor Wat of Cambodia – the largest religious monument in the world.

AWHM aims to encourage families and communities to participate together and live a healthy lifestyle and it is one of Cambodia’s largest fund-raising events. The 5-year sponsorship from Manulife reflects their commitment to build a stronger Cambodian society where peoples’ futures, and those of their children, are better protected. With such huge support and efforts put forth by sponsors, race organisers and participants from many different countries, here are the Top 3 reasons why YOU should be part of the 20th AWHM 2015:

#1 Run in Angkor – UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbol of Cambodia

Image credit: Angkor © Ko Hon Chiu Vincent, UNESCO
Image credit: Angkor © Ko Hon Chiu Vincent, UNESCO

Spanning across a total area of 400 square kilometres, including forested areas, Angkor is one of the most prominent and significant archaeological sites of Southeast Asia. It was built in the 12th century by Khmer King Suryavarman in the capital of Khmer Empire, which gradually transformed from a Hindu to Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century. The architecture and layout of the successive capitals bear witness to a high level of social order and ranking within the Khmer Empire. Angkor is therefore a major site exemplifying cultural, religious and symbolic values, as well as containing high architectural, archaeological and artistic significance (Source: UNESCO).

Angkor Wat is the best-preserved temple of the entire temple complex, largest religious monument in the world and is ranked at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. The Cambodia national flag bears a symbol of the Angkor Wat and has been the top destination for visitors to Cambodia, ranked Number One by TripAdvisor’s 2015 Travelers’ Choice Award in June.

#2 Meet a Diversity of Running buddies

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Last year, AWHM 2014 saw around 8,000 runners flying in from 78 countries to participate in this world bucket-list race event. There is simply no other race in the world that offers the same adrenaline rush, amazing opportunity of exploration of ancient ruins and interaction with so many runners!

Since 1996, the AWHM races have been the most popular sports event in Cambodia, known for its exhilarating and breath-taking race course amongst the majestic monuments of Angkor Wat, as well as the meaningful causes it supports for the Cambodian society and people.

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As the saying goes, “Strangers at starting line, buddies at finishing line” – Such global event creates valuable opportunities for runners to meet new running buddies, forge meaningful friendships and create unforgettable race memories together.

Not to forget, the coolest months of the year in Siem Reap are December and January, in between the dry period of November to March with minimal rainfall. At nightfall, temperatures can go down to sub-20 degrees Celsius and reach a maximum heat of 30 degree Celsius in daytime. As such, December is one of the most popular months to visit Cambodia, and the perfect season to run a race!

#3 Run for a good cause – Support landmine victims

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Every year, runners around the world fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia to participate in the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon to show their support for landmine victims by giving them courage, hope and raise awareness of their cause on banning the use of antipersonnel mines. Many landmine victims also personally participate in the race to inspire their fellow people and appeal to the world to support their cause.

Entry fees and additional financial support foster independence among landmine victims by helping to provide prosthetic limbs, social reintegration programs, and supporting other relevant and needed programs such as education and prevention of HIV/AIDS. In addition, the funds raised by the event also help support organizations including the Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital and the Angkor Hospital for Children and the Cambodian Red Cross.

AWHM 2015 – A World Bucket-list Marathon like no other

Choose from 3 race distances of 3km, 10km and 21km (half-marathon) and participate in the wide variety of race categories including families, runners with prosthetic limbs, wheel chair and fellow road runners.

#RunWithManulife in the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon 2015 for good health, a great cause and an awesome race!

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Make your bucket-list dream race come true by registering for the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon 2015 here!

Race Day: Osaka Marathon 2015

Team JustRunLah!
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Race Day: Osaka Marathon 2015

Marathon Day

Together with Flight Centre Active Travel, we made our way down to the Osaka Marathon 2015! We were greeted by a colorful sea of runners and crowd of enthusiastic supporters  who kept cheering on “gambatte!”. It is definitely an unique experience at an overseas race and we are glad to be part of the Osaka Marathon 2015. Great job and congratulations to fellow runners who have completed the marathon!

[ot-video type=”youtube” url=”2Su1noTWC3I”]

The event

osakamarathonlogoAn annual marathon road running event for men and women held in late October in the city of Osaka, Japan. Happening on Sunday, 25 October 2015, the 2015 Osaka Marathon is expecting a staggering 30,000 marathoners. There is also a “Challenge Run” covering a distance of 8.8km. The event kicked off at 8:55 a.m. with the wheelchair race, followed by the Marathon and Challenge Run at 9:00 a.m. Both marathoners and challenge runners will flag off at the exquisite Osaka Castle Park.

The event is jointly hosted by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations and Yomiuri Shimbun, a Japanese national newspaper. Runners are able to select the charity colours representing the charity theme and activities of the charitable organisation they wish to support: Red—to support your hopes to live, Orange—to assist your dreams, Yellow—to support families, Green—to conserve our natural environment, Light blue—to provide clean water, Navy—to brighten children’s future, and Purple—to preserve the beautiful Osaka city.

With FCAT you can combine your love of travel, fitness and adventure.

fcat flight centre active travel logo

10% OFF for Winter Run Singapore 2016

Team JustRunLah!
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10% OFF for Winter Run Singapore 2016

Chill Out And Have Fun!

Join in the Winter Run and enjoy a cool weekend afternoon with your family and friends. Bring them along to experience this rare winter in summer! Last but not least, don’t miss out on the runners entitlements, including a unique ice medal and a mystery item!

Save 10% with JustRunLah!

All JRL readers get to enjoy an exclusive 10% off registration fees by using this code: WINTERRUN10DISCJRL upon checkout!

Register here!

winter-run-zones

A Quick Chat with Compressport Ambassador: Rachel

Team JustRunLah!
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A Quick Chat with Compressport Ambassador: Rachel

Leading up to the Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016 which is happening in coming January, we had a quick chat with one of their ambassadors Rachel as she shares with us her motivational spirit for running.

JustRunLah!: How will you introduce yourself to Singapore running community?

Rachel: Hello, I am Rachel aka “Rachdaretdream”.

JustRunLah!: When did you first pick up running (what age) and what inspired you to do so?

Rachel: I picked up running back in 2013, running has taught me that I am capable of so much more than I ever imagined.

JustRunLah!: Would you say that one needs to have a certain mindset to take up running as a sport/exercise activity?

Rachel: Depending if you are a competitive or leisure runner. Having a strong and positive mindset will set you in a right direction towards achieving your goals!

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JustRunLah!: What would you consider to be your biggest running achievement so far?

Rachel: Inspiring and motivating others to pick up running and keeping fit!

JustRunLah!: How has Compressport products assist in your training/achievements?

Rachel: The Compressport products especially my favourite the R2 calf’s sleeves has many benefits, It is highly compressive and eliminates calf vibrations while running it also aids in my recovering after a hard- workout. The products comes in many beautiful colours that could easily match your workout outfit.

JustRunLah!: What are your future goals?

Rachel: To keep on spreading the joy of running and chasing personal best timings!

JustRunLah!: One reason why runners should join Compressports Rail Corridor Run 2016?

Rachel: It is one of the most unique race course in Singapore! You can get to run on different surfaces such as tarmac, grass, rocks and the woodland trails. You also get to see the historical Tanjong Pagar railway station. Rumours has it that it might be the last chance to run along this route – One race not be missed!

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JustRunLah!: What advice would you give to all participants at Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016?

Rachel: Stay Hydrated, always look out for un-even terrain ahead of you and most importantly enjoy the beautiful scenery when running.

JustRunLah!: What is your mantra for when the going gets tough in a race?

Rachel: If you can dream it, you can do it!

JustRunLah!: Finish this sentence: Running is…

Rachel: not just exercising; it is not just an achievement. It’s a daily discipline that has nothing to do with speed, weight, social status… It’s about the slow and painful process of being the best you can be!

rail-corridor-run-2016

Click here now to sign up for the Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016!

Race Day: New Balance Run On Singapore 2015

Team JustRunLah!
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Race Day: New Balance Run On Singapore 2015

This year’s race is New Balance Run On’s very first race in Singapore, which many participants were looking forward to run in. However, today’s PSI levels were unfortunately high throughout the day and the race organisers from New Balance Run On had to decide that the weather was not within the ideal conditions to race. To the participants’ disappointment, the race was changed to a non-competitive walk instead.

[ot-video type=”youtube” url=”O2e4IZcW1FQ”]

Despite this, the haze was unable to cause a damper on the spirits of the 4,000 participants that turned up today and many of them also had a great time at the carnival. While the haze was not within the organisers’ control, the whole event was very well organised and participants were also very cooperative. We can see participants queueing neatly at each booth at the pop-up festival to get their free beer, candy floss, truffle fries and tattoos. The race may not have happen as planned, but there were still smiles on everyone’s faces as they enjoy the food and music at the festival.

Race Review: Commando Challenge 2015 (by ‘SmallSteph’)

SmallSteph
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Race Review: Commando Challenge 2015 (by ‘SmallSteph’)

Two years ago, I was a disappointed finisher of the inaugural Commando Challenge. We were delayed for hours at the start point along the green corridor, many obstacles broke down beyond repair, and for a registration fee of $90+ we received a transparent plastic bag of a t-shirt and few vouchers as “race pack”. I did not return for the 2014 edition though it was managed by a different organiser.

But I heard that it went well. So this year, since the 2014 organiser is doing it again, I decided to give Commando Challenge another shot. Held at Sentosa, the 6km race over sand, tarmac and jungle, and featured 13 obstacles.

Credits: Commando Challenge Facebook Page
Credits: Commando Challenge Facebook Page

Two tutorial videos were published on the Commando Challenge Facebook page to prepare us for the race but I didn’t feel those were very useful. Perhaps next year the organisers may wish to consider a 30-day pre-race workout plan like The Spartan Race has for its participants.

Compared with the 2013 plastic bag, the race pack this year improved, albeit very slightly. It’s a drawstring bag, with a t-shirt, a can of Monster energy drink, an AXN handphone armband, and a few vouchers. T-shirts were unisex this year, i.e. men’s cut. An XS was still too big for me. The original registration fee was $85, and a $35 discount was extended to past-year runners. I still don’t think the race pack was substantial enough given the registration fee.

We started on time and none of the obstacles broke down. Red3 has done a fantastic overview of the obstacles, so please do hop over if you’re interested to find out about them.

Two years ago I gave up on the ice bath because it was too long. This year I went through both! I couldn’t feel my legs halfway through the first one which was chest-deep, but I decided the only way out was through the roughly 7m-long pool. The numbness took some time to subside. Then I heard from a friend (who finished the 10km Extreme Commando before running the 6km Commando Challenge) that there was a second ice bath. But we only had to crawl through that, without exactly submerging ourselves in the ice and water, so that went fine for me.

Credit: Commando Challenge Facebook Page
Credit: Commando Challenge Facebook Page

Many of the other obstacles require a certain amount of upper body strength, but everyone I witnessed did fine either by themselves, or with the aid of some awesome friends or fellow racers.

Credits: Commando Challenge Facebook Page
Credits: Commando Challenge Facebook Page

The most memorable obstacle for me was the final one, The Electric Shock. Prior to the race, I noticed a post on Commando Challenge’s Facebook wall that they would be bringing this back (from the 2014 race), and somebody responded with a vehement objection. So as I ran through the wires, I made sure to consciously experience the journey.

The voices in my head went something like, “hmm…nothing leh…oh wait. OMGOMGOMGOMGOMG YAY it’s over!”

So I felt the electricity about halfway through. My calves were pulsating. Strange that the feeling was only concentrated at my calves. I kept on putting one leg in front of another, but my legs seemed to have a life of their own and couldn’t stop right after the obstacle was over. So even after a Commando Challenge official hung my medal over me, I went on for a few more steps uncontrollably. Effects of the electric shocks probably differ between people, as some just collapsed for a breather after passing through the wires, and a friend’s ear was still tingling around 15 minutes after the race.

I felt that the most challenging part of the race wasn’t any particular obstacle, but rather running on sand. The uneven and unstable terrain gave my ankles great training. Washing my sandy shoes afterwards gave my arms great training too! Do you have any recommendations for suitable shoes for running on sand? Please share by leaving a comment below(:

Overall, I enjoyed the race and I felt it went well as there were no major mishaps on race day. Nevertheless, a plumper race pack and a women’s cut t-shirt would have been much appreciated.

Running Makes You Poop!

Shu
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0
Running Makes You Poop!

Ever experienced the sudden urge to do a number 2 while you are running? It can be an embarrassing problem when you are running in a group or even during a race, putting you in a tight and agonising spot. While this may be a difficult topic to approach with your running buddies, let’s not shy away and find out more about the poop:

sect1

This might come as surprising, but it is a real problem among runners and there are even names for it. It can be known as mid-run diarrhoea, runner’s trots, jogger’s trots or even runner’s cramps. They have essentially the same meaning – a sudden and overwhelming need to evacuate your bowels during a long run.

A problem more common than you think

sect2

In fact, it happens to even the best runners – Paula Radcliffe had to squat at the side of the road to answer nature’s call while she was running the London Marathon 2005. She went on to win the race after pooping, and even setting the world record for women, which still stands today.

Why do you poop during a run?

sect3

On the other hand, over exertion can also lead to gastrointestinal stress. As a result, inexperienced runners may experience runner’s trots more often, which adds to why athletes should only increase their intensity and distance gradually.

What can you about it?

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Poop before you run – To prevent unwanted bowel movements, the easiest way is to make sure the load is clear. Go for a poop before the race. Have a little food or coffee to activate the bowels and head to the bathroom before you hit the road. A short warm-up run in advance of a race can also help to get the bowels moving and help you empty everything out before the start,

Watch what you eat – Limit or avoid high-fibre and gas-producing foods, such as beans, bran, fruit and salad a day or two before the race. For runners who experience this problem more frequently, it is better to avoid high-fat foods, caffeine, and sugar alcohols. Warm liquids have also been known to speed foods through the digestive tract.

Avoid food 1-2 hours before run – Eating or drinking can activate the gastrocolic reflex, which essentially pushes things out when new food comes in.

Stay hydrated – Prevent your intestines from having difficulty to hold your load in and also to prevent yourself from getting dehydration during the run.

Trial and error to find out which pre-race and race nutrition routine works best for you. The above are simply suggestions for helping your bowel issues during a long run or race, but it may not be the absolute solution for everyone. Having your own tailored nutrition routine also has the added benefit of helping to relieve race stress, which contributes to alleviating gastrointestinal problems.

Good news for us: there appears to be less colon cancer in runners. You may be at lower risk for colon cancer because of your active bowels; the reason being that your bowel contents are not present in your colons as long as non-runners.

Let’s all poop happy and run happy together!

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View or share with friends the the full infographic here (click and save image to view the full size):

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In Land of the Rising Sun with Flight Centre Active Travel for Osaka Marathon 2015

Team JustRunLah!
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In Land of the Rising Sun with Flight Centre Active Travel for Osaka Marathon 2015

Day 1: Arrival

We are excited to be travelling to Japan with Flight Centre Active Travel (FCAT) for the 2015 Osaka Marathon! Part of our team together with the GM of FCAT have touched down and settled in Osaka. Check back daily for a complete travelogue including the race expo and of course the big day on Sunday!

[ot-video type=”youtube” url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Noa529erMY”]

The event

osakamarathonlogoAn annual marathon road running event for men and women held in late October in the city of Osaka, Japan. Happening on Sunday, 25 October 2015, the 2015 Osaka Marathon is expecting a staggering 30,000 marathoners. There is also a “Challenge Run” covering a distance of 8.8km. The event will kick off at 8:55 a.m. with the wheelchair race, followed by the Marathon and Challenge Run at 9:00 a.m. Both marathoners and challenge runners will flag off at the exquisite Osaka Castle Park.

The event is jointly hosted by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations and Yomiuri Shimbun, a Japanese national newspaper. Runners are able to select the charity colours representing the charity theme and activities of the charitable organisation they wish to support: Red—to support your hopes to live, Orange—to assist your dreams, Yellow—to support families, Green—to conserve our natural environment, Light blue—to provide clean water, Navy—to brighten children’s future, and Purple—to preserve the beautiful Osaka city.

With FCAT you can combine your love of travel, fitness and adventure.

Click here to enquire about packages!

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Photo credits: Matt, GM of FCAT Singapore.

Singapore Winter Run 2016: Bringing You Winter In Summer

Team JustRunLah!
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Singapore Winter Run 2016: Bringing You Winter In Summer

Experiencing a different climate in Singapore seems like a mission impossible. But, coming to Singapore next year 26th of March, is a spin-off of the iconic UK Winter Run Series! Yes, the Winter Run, in Singapore! The organisers are making this a dream come true to many, to bring us Singaporeans a winter in summer, where we can breeze (or freeze) through a 5 kilometre route that boasts 3 different climatic zones with sensational on-route activities and line-ups at this fun-run.

Enjoy 10% off by using code: WINTERRUN10DISCJRL upon checkout!

3 Different Zones For Different Adventures

Fun Zone: Slip into the Fun Zone on the bouncy slide! From clowns and jugglers to carnival games, there is something to keep everyone entertained right here in this zone.

Snow Zone: Be greeted by falling snow flurries welcoming you in the snow zone. In this zone, you are transported into a land of snow-tipped alpine trees, snowmen, and chilly breeze. Filled with wondrous photo opportunities and photobooths, you might want to prepare yourself for the amazing selfies you can take here.

Cold Zone: This is where you experience the freezing winter – evoke all senses as you venture through an ice cave. Prepare for some brain freeze while you grab hold of the ice-cold tasty treats stalls, or jump right into the ice bath; there is no finishing the race without a shiver down your spine!

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Chill Out And Have Fun!

Join in the Winter Run and enjoy a cool weekend afternoon with your family and friends. Bring them along to experience this rare winter in summer! Last but not least, don’t miss out on the runners entitlements, including a unique ice medal and a mystery item!

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Click here to register for the Singapore Winter Run 2016!

Enjoy 10% off by using code: WINTERRUN10DISCJRL upon checkout!

To each our own: Defying conventional running wisdom

Yuhan
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To each our own: Defying conventional running wisdom

When my brother asked me to plan a half marathon training programme with two runs a week, I refused.

That training plan would flout conventional wisdom, which recommends a minimum of three runs a week, I lectured. Two weekly runs would not meet the mileage commitment required for a half marathon and would cause the long run to exceed 30 percent of weekly mileage.

Then he reasoned, “I don’t enjoy running more than twice a week.” The statement made me rethink the importance of common training guidelines. Why do we run, if not for the sheer pleasure of it?

So I crafted an eighteen-week programme based on two principles. First, the weekly mileage would increase gradually to minimize injury risk, and where the increase was moderate, the mileage remained the same for two weeks to ensure adaptation. He would report any aches and pains, so that I could monitor his fatigue level and adjust the programme accordingly. Second, the lack in quantity would be made up for in quality. He would run at a variety of paces: easy pace for weekly long runs, threshold pace for tempos (from fifth week onwards), and race pace (alternate week) in the last third of the long run. From his easy pace, I calculated the threshold and race paces using Jack Daniels’s running calculator.

Week after week, he checked off the workouts smoothly. His aim was to complete the half marathon in two hours and hopefully to break his personal best of 1:52. I was certain he would break his Personal Best; as for how much, that depends on how much he was willing to suffer during the race. Perhaps 1:50?

He ran 1:48. He was surprised that he could still break his PB in his thirties; I was surprised that running twice a week could yield that race performance and relieved that he escaped unscathed (I know that my body couldn’t pull off that kind of programme without injuries).

While I see conventional wisdom as safety guidelines to minimize injury risks and maximize the amount of running I can do, my brother sees it as an imposition on how he can enjoy running based on his schedule and interest. But behind our different attitudes lies a principle perhaps more fundamental than conventional wisdom: running is to be enjoyed.

Is conventional wisdom useful? I used to answer an absolute yes, but now I also say, to each our own.

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