Milla Star Bizzotto, a 9-year-old from Miami, completed an extreme race on 4th March that was meant to test the limits of the very fittest adults. And she does not run kids course in races.
She took part in Battlefrog Xtreme — a 24-hour obstacle course designed by a Navy SEAL. Each lap is approximately 8 km long, with 25 obstacles and a swimming portion. Not only did Milla complete 6 laps of the race, she was the only person under the age of 18 to even participate.
I don’t want to play video games, I don’t want to Hoverboard. I don’t want to do things to make life easier. I want to be comfortable being uncomfortable. I have one body and it’s all I want and all I love.
She completed the race with the help of her father, Christian Bizzotto, with whom she has competed in several other events. BattleFrog allowed her to participate in the race despite her age as long as her dad stayed by her side.
To prepare for the race, Milla trained relentlessly five days a week, three hours a day, for 9 months.
What inspired Milla to push herself and compete in extreme races was when she used to be bullied by other classmates. They would call her names and say she was not a good player. But to Milla, it’s about accomplishing the impossible. She wants to inspire other children and let them know that they can do or be anything they want. She wants to show that they can overcome bullying without violence.
I don’t get bullied anymore. I know how to stand up for myself now. And I love what I do. I want to do it forever.
Moving forward, Milla plans to keep competing, training, and kicking ass.
Following the success of the inaugural Reebok Spartan Race Singapore, race organiser Mediacorp is proud to announce that the world’s leading obstacle race is set for an epic return on 7 May 2016 at Tampines Ave 10.
In conjunction with the venue announcement, a new hour slot will also be opened for the Super Heats category – this means that even more participants can take part in the race!
More Mud, More Fun
The new race course will span the jungled terrain on the outskirts of Tampines, and promises a rougher, tougher landscape featuring dense foliage, wildlife and a heck of a lot more mud — creating the ultimate gritty atmosphere that’s a true reflection of the Spartan ethos. Participants will have to battle the elements as well as their own limitations in order to conquer this untamed new arena.
“You are going to love what we have coming your way.” Mr Joe De Sena, CEO and Founder of the Spartan Race. “Last year, the Spartan Sprint was an urban race meant to showcase the cityscape. This time round, we’ve answered your questions — you wanted mud, you’re going to get it. Get yourself ready because this is not going to be like last year. Rough, rugged and muddy Singapore, this is exactly what the doctor ordered.”
Race Your Way To Lake Tahoe!
Another great news for all fellow Spartans! With the addition of the Super Elite race category to this year’s Reebok Spartan Race Singapore, race organiser Mediacorp will also be sending the top racers to compete in the Spartan World Championship at Lake Tahoe.
A total of 4 participants – 2 top Elite Men and 2 top Elite women will be awarded the sponsored trip. The prize will be given to 1 Singaporean/PR man and woman and 1 non-Singaporean man and woman, who has achieved 1st placing in the Men’s and Women’s Elite Heat at the 2016 Reebok Spartan Race Singapore Super event on 7 May 2016.
Spartan Race World Championship 2016
The Spartan Race World Championship is the ultimate test of strength and endurance and this October, the race returns to Lake Tahoe where Spartans are in for an adventure filled trail. Competitors will tackle the most challenging event the obstacle racing community has ever experienced in an unforgettable test of mental and physical strength.
Set against the rugged backdrop of the striking Sierra Nevada mountain range, the Spartan Beast course features 13+ miles and 30+ obstacles across gruelling mountain terrain at Lake Tahoe, California. Expect all manner of obstacles including many never before seen on US soil.
The sponsored trip includes:
Roundtrip economy flight from Singapore to Reno on United Airlines
Roundtrip Airport transfer from Reno-Tahoe International Airport to Resort Squaw Creek
5D4N accommodation at Resort Squaw Creek in a single-share room, with breakfast
7-day Premier policy with AIG Travel Insurance
Registration fee for the Spartan Beast: World Championship Beast
Terms & conditions apply.
Don’t miss out on this epic experience, visit spartanrace.sg to sign up now.
$20 OFF Spartan Super Singapore 2016
Spartan Super runners, you are not excluded! Enjoy $20.00 OFF – Use promo code: JRLMSP2016 during check-out to enjoy the discount.
$25 OFF Spartan Sprint Singapore 2016
Do you want to do the Spartan Sprint instead? We are happy to provide all JustRunLah! subscribers with a discount of $25.00 (U.P. $108.00 / Discounted: $83.00)! Use promo code: JRLM2016 during check-out to claim the special price.
42.125 is a magic number for a lot of us. It feels like the ultimate race that all runners should eventually conquer and your finisher tee is going to be worn for all occasions in the next year. But it feels like a lot of mileage to cover at one go and it can be so nerve-racking. Especially since months and months of training have culminated to this 42k.
If you feel so nervous you might just ditch the whole race, it’s okay. If you feel like everything is going to go wrong from your stomach to your brain, it’s perfectly normal. We’re going to walk through how to conquer your big day as a runner.
Nutrition
This race is definitely long enough to necessitate mid-race refuel. You could opt for sports gels, sports drinks or an energy bar. There’s a whole assortment of them. Sports gels are essentially a concentrated source of carbohydrate (65–75 g/100 ml) that can be easily consumed and quickly digested. Its has a two-fold benefit. First, it gives you a more substantial source of carbs once those sugars have been digested (more so than sports drinks!). Second, it sends a message to your brain that more energy is being provided so you can now push harder!
If it’s your first time using a sports gel during a race and you’re unsure how your stomach might react, it’s okay to go for sports drinks and energy bars too. Choose one that contains both carbs and electrolytes. That would help with hydration as well! If possible, try out different types of sports fuel during your training runs. See what fits you best. Regardless, remember to have a full meal the night before and be well-rested for the next day!
Training
Most training programs would gradually step up the distance you’ve to cover over the course of 4-6 months. Some would even manage to squeeze in 1-2 “trial” 42k runs. It’s about getting used to being on your feet for extended periods of time. However, remember to add in cross-training days as well. You can go for martial arts or swimming to train your aerobic capacity. Or hit the gym for some strength training.
On the last week leading up to race day, remember to rest and recover, rest and recover. You want to walk up to the starting line slightly nervous but extremely pumped to get started. Your legs should feel fresh and your heart strong and steady. Keep following your training schedule but step back on the intensity for the last week. Do either half the distance or reduce the pace. If you’ve slipped up on your training somehow, which is also common, here’s how you can safely get back on track!
You’re your longest commitment, so take the best care of yourself.
Race day
Marathon
Lay out your running outfit the night before and pin on your race bib. Use your favorite socks too. Wake up early and have a proper breakfast of overnight oats or peanut butter sandwich 1-2 hours before the race. (You probably can’t sleep much the night before either!)
I usually like to arrange for someone to fetch me to the starting point so I won’t have to worry about not finding a carpark, missing my stop and such. You can also register for shuttle services or book a cab! Pamper yourself a little and make yourself as comfortable as possible.
Still, Murphy’s Law and things can still go wrong. Here are some troubleshooting for race day hiccups. Take things slow in the first km and remind yourself that you’re going to be doing this for 42 more times. And since you’re going to be at it for a while, might as well enjoy the road! Take in the scenery, your fellow racers and completely bask in this unique runner’s experience. A 42k is pretty special and your first is going to be most memorable of them all. Have fun with it!
Photo Credit: Green Corridor Run Timeline Photo
The journey of a thousand steps begins with the first. You’ve already signed up for your 42k (or thinking about it) and that’s pretty brave in itself. Take pride in that and savour every step in your road to 42k.
It is arguably the most special race you’re going to make.
A 21k is a perfect stepping stone towards a 42k or ultramarathon. You learn about discipline, self-care and the importance of nutrition. But it’s also a huge jump from a 5k or 10k – almost twice the distance! Let’s make this one hell of an experience for you.
Nutrition
Photo Credit: Pris Chew
This race is probably going to take longer than 90 minutes. So proper nutrition before, during and after the race is important. Having a small meal 45 minutes to 1 hour before would fuel the first 60 minutes of your workout. Then, you’d need to take in some mid-race nutrition to charge up your muscles for the next half of the route. There are people who survive on just sports drinks and water at hydration points. That works too! The main difference between sports gels and sports drinks is just the amount of carbs packed in them. Try to find out what works best for you during your training runs.
Race Day
Photo Credit: Pop Sugar
Wake up early. For those who find waking up at 4am painful (which would be perfectly normal), we’ve 6 tips to get from bed to park. Spend the first few moments awake just stretching out your toes and arms. Pull yourself across your entire bed and breathe deeply. Then imagine the whole experience of getting from the start point to the finish line.
Once you’re up and awake, get about preparing a simple breakfast. It could be overnight oats or wholemeal sandwich. Have a hot drink to perk up your body a little! Then, get to doing some dynamic stretches. Do 10 deep squats and then rest for a few seconds in the squat position. Throw in some lunges and light jogging if you’re up for more!
Race Experience
Photo credit: Just Run Lah HomeTeamNS REAL Run
If it’s your first time doing a 21k, you might be nervous about a lot of things. It could be about feeling bored, or feeling too tired to continue. Remember that the race experience is so addictive because of the people running alongside you. You might not know their names but seeing the same person fall into the step beside you, at same pace can be very comforting. Along the route, you’d also meet other volunteers or even interesting people all dressed up in costumes. (It has happened before!)
Running distances also come with the joy of discovering more about yourself. What do you tell yourself at the halfway mark? How do you convince yourself it’s time for hydration? It’s a pretty amazing experience. We just ask you to thoroughly immerse yourself in the experience. Alternatively, you can listen to audiobooks or music. You can sign up for the race with a friend. Or you can make friends with someone there! Looking for race pacers would also be a good idea to keep you motivated and on track throughout the race.
Ready to take on the challenge? Here are the upcoming 5 races! Check out those with JRL logos beside them because there are race discounts available for our readers.
CONGRATULATIONS! Getting started on a race training like that is not easy but you’ve done the most difficult step of signing up. Commit to this promise to yourself and you’d be so proud of your accomplishment at the end – we guarantee.
Whilst the 2015 Urbanathlon didn’t end well for me, what with a fractured talus bone and torn ligament 200m from the finish line, it didn’t deter me from returning in 2016.
Not quite the end I was looking for.
Right up till the last obstacle, I was having a ball with John keeping me company throughout it all. The injury was just sheer bad luck for me, that took several months of healing, followed by endless physio sessions. However, it took me no time to register again for the 2016 edition, and with the usual level of excitement we joined the Urbanathletes for another round of climbing, running, crawling and everything else in between.
Somewhere in my cleverness I suggested we take a seat instead of wait near the pen not thinking how many athletes have joined the event and how many waves will take-off before we get our turn. We ended up in wave 13 and started 33min after gun time. We won’t be doing that again.
Starting-off pretty well we reached the Tanjong Rhu condos to be met with our first obstacle. A 6′ foot wall, followed by a sloped wall, followed by what had to be an 8′ foot tall wall.
The distances between each wall were quite narrow. We had to ask others to move out of the way so we could get off the top of the first and second walls. It also diminished the momentum needed to sprint up the wall. Given that John had to hoist me over the first one and pulled up the second, when I saw the third one, I just said “no way, see you around the corner”.
6′ wall
After being hoisted
Failed attempt
8′ wall
Sporting a bicep tendon injury from a gym workout limited my ability to rely on my upper body for this obstacle and the forthcoming ones.
As we rounded Tanjong Rhu, I expected to run towards the Marina Barrage but the route was altered from 2015 and found ourselves beneath Benjamin Sheares Bridge for Obstacle 2: Side Walk. Reasonably easy at the start once I hosted myself up. With each section the setup changed and became more reliant on core strength and balance. The last section had my hands and feet only a mere 20cm apart making my body top heavy. I was quite worried that I would topple over and land on my head. So, I tightened my body, hung on for dear life and crawled to the end.
Hoisting myself up
Shuffling across
Waiting for frame to stabilise
Don’t topple was all I was thinking
John being naturally athletic found it easier and figured walking as if on a balance beam would be quicker and easier than my approach not realising how wobbly the frame was.
John’s turn
Steady on
He makes it look easy
From here we had to climb 5 storeys of stairs onto the bridge. I absolutely hate stairs as I inevitably end up completely out of breath. It was worth it though just to absorb the views of Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Marina Barrage, Singapore Flyer and the bay area.
Descending the bridge we came across Obstacle 3: Swinging Fortunes. They were swinging alright. Climbing up on the truss and swinging like a monkey was definitely not for most girls. Fully reliant on upper body strength, I took one look at it and said to John, “I’ll be on the other side taking photos”. He made this obstacle look easy although he said it was tough holding onto the thin rods. Even with gym gloves the rods were slippery.
And then there were some more stairs and incline running on Bayfront Bridge towards Marina Bay Sands promenade. From here it was km after km of running with no further obstacles for about 4km. Not particularly interesting and by the time I reached the 8km mark I’ve had enough. With my energy bank emptied we ended up walking actually I think more like trudging.
We ended up so slow that when I wanted to give way to a cyclist to pass us he said “It’s Ok, I’m the tail cyclist”. With shock-horror on my face intermingled with amusement I asked “What?! Are you saying we are the last ones?”, “Yes” he replied. Well I’ve never brought up the rear in a race before.
MBS Promenade
An I had enough moment
The tail cyclist
The upside to being at the end is that you get the obstacles all to yourself. It was like our own private playground. By this time we just chose to have fun and maybe even pass the two participants strolling before us and then we won’t be last anymore.
When we reached Obstacle 7: The Network we caught up to a few other racers. This one was my favourite last year and again this year. Having fun on these wobbly ropes was quickly altered when I had to climb even more stairs around 13km mark. By this stage I promptly sat down and cursed and somewhere along the way I heard John babbling something about a Vertical Challenge race. I think I sneered at him as I hauled myself up and realised that clearly my legs need strengthening. Maybe I should start with the stairs in my condo. I’ve got 30 floors to work with. I’ll think about it.
Perhaps my least favorite was Obstacle 8: Metcon Madness with its 4 stations of cross-fit exercises. I didn’t find it interesting. I can go to the gym for these exercises rather than pay for it in an obstacle race. I hope it won’t be there in the 2017 edition.
13km version of enough
Burn off some energy
Box jump 10 sets. Urghhh
10 sets of dumbell overhead swing weighing 10kg
10 sets overhead squat lifting 10kg barbell
As we reached the last obstacle, the Flying Fox, we were given the option to skip it which we did for several reasons. One, we didn’t want to wait 20min in the blazing sun for our turn; two, holding onto a rope with an injured arm was not a good idea; and three, mostly we just didn’t want to get soaked landing in a pool of water especially since the Singha beer tent was beckoning. We had our priorities straight.
Since we couldn’t enjoy the after race offerings last year, we made sure we did so this year sweaty rather than wet.
After a measly 2:50hrs (yeah super slow right?) we reached the end and I’m happy to say injury free. We met some nice blokes from the UK and Canada as we huddled under the umbrella in the Singha beer enclosure. We downed a couple of cans before breakfast and had a great yarn.
Singha time
Finisher medals, tees and bibs
Time to caffeinate too
Overall, another nice event and we’ll be back for 2017. Hopefully, stronger and fitter this time. You could say we are hooked.
Since Sunday, our fellow Singaporeans have called into Mediacorp about a transient smoke screen blanketed over Singapore. The ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre put up a regional haze map yesterday (29 March) at 7.30pm, identifying hotspots in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Brunei as well.
This sounds like our nightmare recreated on a larger scale. Why is the haze happening? Isn’t it the wrong time of the year? NEA spokesperson commented that “transboundary smoke haze from forest and peat fires in the region” may be a possible cause, but the real cause of such smells cannot be confirmed yet due to their “transient nature” (Source).
What now?
The biggest concern for our avid local runners is going to be how you can get in your daily sweat session? However, runners often forget that there are other ways to build strength and aerobic fitness. They often neglect other muscle groups too. This would instead be a great opportunity to do the following workout!
High Knees
Photo Credit: Competitor
Lift your knees up to hip height. Swing your hands for momentum. When you land, touch the ground with the balls of your feet. This motion is a full lower body workout, especially for your calves. Having strong calves help you move faster and go uphill stronger. They’re often neglected in isolated exercises, but they’re also so important that when you train other muscle groups you train your calves too. With the haze, high knees can get your heart rate up for your daily cardio fix too!
Lunges
Photo Credit: Dailymail
These train your leg strength and balance. As unilateral exercises (in which you work one side more than the other), they require your mind and body to respond accordingly so that you don’t topple over. If you want to add power, do jump squats instead.
Planks
Tighten your core. Specifically, you should clench your fist and squeeze your core muscles. Hold there for 30s, or you can start by holding for the last 10s of your set. A strong core helps to support your upper body when you’re pounding away at a marathon. There are variations you can do too!
Best way to get these in is by working it into a high intensity circuit training. It gets your heart rate up, metabolic rate up and also trains those fast twitch muscles (which endurance runners most easily forget).
Some of us may remember the times we used to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festivals at Chinese Garden with the enchanting light displays on the lake. In fact, the iconic Pagoda Twins is also situated in Chinese Garden and has been a favourite among photographers who visit Jurong Lake. Just across the Bai Hong Qiao (White Rainbow Bridge), you can also connect to the Japanese Garden which is known for its calming and peaceful surroundings.
Lanterns for the mid autumn festival at Chinese gardens in Singapore | Photo credits: Feed Me Travel
Bai Hong Qiao | Photo credits: Zhiyong (March 29, 2014)
With its beautiful natural sceneries and unique architectures, it is not rare to spot people running or taking a stroll around the perimeter of the Jurong Lake Park. Tai chi groups can also be spotted early in the morning, and kids at the six different play zones at the children’s playground. Overlooking the tranquil waters with occasional dragon boaters and kayakers, Jurong Lake Park is undoubtedly a favourite haunt for the nearby residents.
The Future of Jurong Lake
Coming the next few years and set to be completed by 2020, Jurong Lake will be seeing some major changes. To be known as Jurong Lake Gardens, the park intends to integrate with the whole of Jurong Lake District, incorporating ideas for green roofs and landscape terraces. The development of Jurong Lake Gardens will also complement Jurong Gateway, the commercial hub of the Jurong Lake District.
Families can look forward to more water play areas. | Artist’s Impression: NParks
In essence, this means that Jurong Lake Park will become a park that connects the whole of Jurong District, serving as a recreational hub for people who live and work in the area.
While new developments often bring in concerns of disturbance to the natural landscape, the Jurong Lake Park will be developed to retain the tranquillity of the area, and improve the ways visitors can enjoy nature, greenery and lakeside views.
Visitors can stroll along a boardwalk that brings them close to nature and observe birds feeding at the water’s edge. | Artist’s Impression: NParks
Besides planting more trees, there will be a greater variety of trees including the types of flowers, and more spaces for recreational activities. Water sports lovers can also expect new community lifestyle and water sports facility. We can expect the new Jurong Lake Gardens to be a beautiful and exciting park for everyone.
Registering yourself for a distance like this probably comes with some mixed feelings. It’s exhilarating to feel like you’re putting yourself out there for a new challenge. Yet, it can also be intimidating to think about how 10K is twice the distance of your last 5K and 4 times longer than your 2.4K at NAPFA.
Fret not – we’re here to walk you through conquering your first 10K!
First mistake: Starting out too fast
Photo credit: Men’s Journal
Precisely because we’re used to shorter distances, we tend to overestimate the pace needed. We start out too fast, build up a ton of lactic acid in our muscles and crash for the next half of the distance. Instead, we want you to work on a pace that is 30s slower than what you typically do. Then, gradually increase your pace over time if you feel energetic and are still going strong. It’d help if you got yourself tracking Apps.
Second mistake: Skipping pre-race meal
When we do shorter distances and are done within 1 hour, it’s okay to not eat before your runs. However, for longer runs, your muscle glycogens would be depleted more than usual. You’d need to take in some carbs before to support this extra work. Especially since most runs are in the morning, your body has already used up most of the energy stores to basically, keep you alive through the night. So have a good breakfast! It perks you up before the race too. If you’re afraid that you’d end up with queasy stomachs during the race, try having them 45 minutes to 1 hour before the race.
Third mistake: Forgetting to enjoy!
We can get so caught up with trying not to screw up. Or we get so afraid about being bored to pack our playlist with music and remain plugged in throughout the race (I did!). The sweet race experience comes from the scenery, the fellow runners and enthusiastic volunteers, and of course, counting down to the next hydration point.
It’s about being completely involved in the race that would give you the full running experience. When you’re waiting at the starting line, be ready to give it your mind, sweat, your all. If you need to slow down, it’s okay. If you need to walk, it’s alright too. What we want is for you to finish and finish happy.
Do you frequently feel bloated and uncomfortable? Or are you perpetually hungry, even though you have only just eaten?
Are you getting at least 7 hours of sleep per day?
Are you exercising for around 150 minutes per week?
If you’re answering no for at least one of the above question, you’re not allowing yourself to perform at your maximum potential.
It’s natural for runners to think that they’ve ran off those calories, and that they are entitled to a heavy bowl of Laksa. It’s also common for university students to contest at being the “best night owl.” But really, missing out on your part of your nutrition, rest and physical activity can contribute to overall reduction in wellbeing.
Food
The amount of calories one needs to take in is highly individual. It is also troublesome and unsatisfying to have to count calories. (There are better ways to keep track of your food intake). You’d want to just enjoy your hot dinner without having to worry about feeling sluggish and groggy.
What we’d suggest is to opt for healthier options such as brown rice instead of white rice, and wholemeal sandwich instead of a burrito. Order milo kosong or kopi-o kosong instead of the usual creamer and sugar-filled drinks. Do you know how much sugar there are in those?! If you feel hungry in between meals, have a small cup of fruits or milk. It’s okay to eat more frequently, especially if you exercise rather frequently. Most importantly, drink lots of water.
Sleep
Image credit: Healthtap.com
You need at least 7 hours of sleep. There is such a thing has sleeping too much. What we would recommend is having a consistent sleep cycle. Get your body ready for rest at roughly the same time everyday. Switch off all lights and distractions (including your phone!). Then, stretch out on your bed and take a few deep breathes. If you’re the kind to have a very, very busy mind, you could prepare a small notebook beside your bed to jot down outstanding tasks that are bothering you. This way, you can be assured that you won’t forget them tomorrow!
Exercise
Photo Credit: Telegraph
You don’t need to be a triathlete or ultramarathoner to be considered healthy. In fact, those who go all out, all day might be neglecting rest days too much that it becomes unhealthy. Health Promotion Board recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week. You should do a mixture of cardio (e.g. jogging, swimming, cycling) and strength training. Especially for our Singaporean workforce, who spends a lot of time at their desk, moving about would help reduce chronic back pain and rounded shoulders. If you’re just starting out, going for a 2.5KM or 5KM race is already fantastic! We even have tips on how to conquer your first 5KM race.
Whether you’re a student trying to get past finals this sem or a corporate success trying to get another promotion, these 3 are the very foundations to success. Don’t scrimp on any!
We agree. It’s the most convenient and useful piece of clothing. All those day-to-evening fashion statements should start including dri-fit. Sometimes, we even try to wear a black dri-fit shirt and convince yourself that if you stand really far, it would look like a classy velvet dress. At the very least, other equally obsessed runners in the room would agree.
2. You know a 100 Apps and tracker devices to monitor your workout.
Image source: Wired.com
There’s one for nutrition. Hopefully, Lor Mee is going to be legitimate entry in that one. There’s also another that syncs up to your Polar heart rate belt and yet another maybe for the step tracker tied to your shoes. It is probably as inconvenient as it sounds, but accuracy is key. It’s everything, really. How else should I know if I’m on track for a sub-4 hour marathon?
3. Your diary has “long run” scheduled as importantly as a meeting.
Photo Credit: Telegraph
If your friends ask for a Friday night party followed by Saturday lounge movie marathon, that’s great. But all that needs to happen after your weekend long run. It’s not something you can reschedule, cut short, or consider removing. Oh the horror, of course not! It’s as important as your boss calling you in for a meeting.
4. You know every lingo possible.
Photo Credit: Elite Daily
PB, reps, sets, 75% HRmax,… Basically every short forms (or long forms or other cultural variations) are known to you. That’s your language. You could even remove all the connecting words in between. Like “26.2 miles PB?” and you’ve conveyed everything you had planned to. Somehow, you can even decipher those complicated marketing languages such as “moisture wicking,” “seamless technology,” “performance enhancer” and what not. To everyone else, it’s just going to say “shirt for exercise.”
5. You measure how far your office is to your home by the average running distance.
Photo Credit: CNN Travel
Probably every other obsessed runner: I know the distance from Clementi to Bukit Batok MRT might be about 7-8 KM so it takes roughly an hour to get there. You probably could take the PIE (Tuas) down but I’m not sure.
6. You’re convinced the world hates you when it starts raining before you run.
Image credit: 123RF
It’s ridiculous. Every self-help book and normal logical person would be able to tell you NO, that the rain is a result of condensation and the accumulation of cloud droplets. But all these get thrown out of the window when the weather has ungraciously disrupted your training schedule. You know what, you’re just going to go out and prove to the world who’s boss.
7. You think it is a necessity for everyone to exercise.
Image credit: 123RF
It’s not a good to have habit for people to be getting in at least 10KM after work. It is a must. They need this run to remove the toxins in their body, to strengthen their hearts and improve bone strength. It is basically VITAL to survival.
If you’ve checked off 5 of them, YOU’RE OFFICIALLY ADDICTED! Welcome to the brighter side (where we also think that exercising obsessively is the right way to go).
Photo credits for featured photo: Mr Kok Wan See (Running Shots)
Went to a running event organised by Gei Gei Running Club, this is my second run with them and I really enjoyed myself for both runs. And hopefully they will have more runs coming up and hopefully all their upcoming running events I may be able to attend ?
Although is a torture to pull myself out of bed early in the morning on weekends, but I would rather wake up early than become a roast oink oink(although my skin tone already shows that I’m very roasted but I shall not further roast myself ?)
This time, we run from Punggol Waterfront to Coney Island and back. The dress theme of this run is tourist and cabin crew, and it’s pretty cool that some people super effort to dress up and go.
And I must really say that the event organisers sibeh effort, it is a run that there is no entry fees, but they provide very good after run refreshments for the runners! Really really appreciate it! And what I love most is the creativity and the design of the running bibs for the runners, it’s in the format of the passport. Although is not a must to wear it and a few people did not put it on but I think it’s too cute that I have to wear it ?
When the organisers announced that we will be going on a slow run I was super happy as I’m suffering from body aches from my pole fitness class yesterday (I call it pole fitness because it’s more of a fitness than dance, try climbing up a pole or hook yourself upside down on it is not easy) but then I felt kena ‘cheated’, apparently our definition and understanding of the word ‘slow’ is different ? Had a tough time chasing. The route is estimated to be 10km but I don’t hero because I got pole fitness practice the next day so I waited outside the east entrance of Coney Island while the rest ran in for a short loop, I only ran 9km as shown on my Nike running app. Can’t bare to splurge on a GPS fitness watch yet unless JRL wanna sponsor me or can let me win one in a contest ?
Luckily I got a fellow runner accompanying me to run the last few km if not I can imagine myself walking. It is nice to go running events because you get to meet new people. Also the power of social media is huge, saw many Runstagrammers for the first time but I just feels like I’ve known them for a long time, we support each other through words of encouragement on Instagram ?
And runners who runs together eats together! We run to eat and we eat to run ?
Yesterday attended a running clinic held by JRL academy’s Mr Lexus Tan. It’s really good! Which makes me really think hard on what he says: Running is not just putting on your shoes and run. I’m quite amazed that I actually will attend this type of running clinic, I don’t see myself as a hardcore runner but a leisure runner. I’ve learnt a lot in this running clinic but learning and doing it is different thing. Learnt about what type of shoes is suitable for running on different landscape and distance, the different running techniques and strength conditioning.
Upon crossing the finishing line at the Qingyuan marathon, many of the Chinese runners bite into what they thought was an energy bar. It turns out that the athletes had gotten themselves a mouthful of fruit-perfumed moisturising soap.
A spokesman for the organizers told the Qingyuan Daily that their original intention was for runners to be able to go home and take a comfortable shower after the race. The spokesman added that the organizers regretted that the product was not labelled in Chinese. In fact, out of all the complimentary items in the gift bag, the imported soap was the most expensive one.
Photos posted online by race participants show the packages of soap were decorated with an image of succulent grapes, along with the words “fruity soap” and “extra moisturizer” written in English.
“The package of the soaps are indeed like food package. It is our mistake of negligence,” said one of the event hosts.
On the other hand, thousands of people were injured while running the same marathon on last Sunday in Qingyuan. According to local newspaper Qingyuan Daily, medical workers performed first aid on participants more than 12,000 times, treating 10,000 muscle spasms and 1,700 sprains. Ambulances were called in 23 times and 17 people were hospitalized, including five in critical condition.
While those are big numbers considering the scale of the event was only 20,000 participants, a spokesman for the Qingyuan marathon declined to comment beyond praising the work of medical personnel. “If they performed 12,000 treatments in five hours, I think this is quite an accomplishment,” the spokesman said.
Local governments like to host marathons because they can bring cities prestige as well as tourist dollars and official funding. In 2011, the city of Lanzhou received 400 million yuan ($61 million) from Gansu provincial authorities to revamp its roads ahead of its first marathon (China News Service).
The races can also be big business for the firms that organize them: In its interim report in 2015, Wisdom Sports Group, a Hong-Kong listed company that specializes in hosting athletic events in mainland China, said it raked in 66.9 million yuan (US$10 million) gross profit in the first six months of last year from running events, posting a 62.6% gross margin.
But the marathon craze has also been marked by grave mishaps as inexperienced organizers scramble to host races – and inexperienced runners enthusiastically sign up to race them – with experts increasingly worried about flaws in race management and participants’ poor knowledge of their own health conditions.
As China’s economy develops, authorities are racing ahead with their efforts to promote long-distance running – but this disaster in Qingyuan, China has raised questions over whether China is pushing forward at too quick a pace.
(Hi guys! Before I start-off my short and first review for 2016, I wanna wished all JRL readers a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I know it’s like into 3 months-late but as most of you know I only blog on overseas running event.)
Alor Setar tower
Pre-race
Departure + Arrival: I took a coach (Starmart Express) which departs SG ( Golden Mike Tower). Yes, since Alor Setar is located in the Northern most state of Malaysia (before Perlis), bus journey took around 9 hours. Excruciatingly long but ironically, it felt fast as I spend most people f the time sleeping. After arrival at The Shahab Perdana Bus Terminal, it was another 3km+ walk for me to the city itself before I could crash into my motel.
REPC: Simple and convient. Located outside the Bowling alley in Aman Central Mall. Not too hard to find and it wasn’t congested with other unnecessary booth.
Entitlement: Race shirt. Bib. Simple. There’s no need for unwanted (and often, useless coupon)
Race shirt. Photo courtesy: Official Event FB page.
Race day
Photo courtesy: Official Event FB page.
Race venue was located at the base of Alor Setar Tower – just a two minute walk away from my motel. Turnout wasn’t huge but it was good enough although majority were Malaysians (was expecting too see international participants). Smooth flag-off.
Race route for HM. Photo Courtesy: Official Event FB page.
Race route was basically one giant loop around the city. It wasn’t the most picturesque route but the sights of the rural urban environment and the city landmark was refreshing (to me at least).
Me. Photo courtesy: ActionPix MALAYSIA FB page
Water point were spread out evenly. But to be honest, the first water point was the only one that’s legit. As the distance progresses, the “water” point although sufficient, was nothing more than isotonics and soft drink station (lemon tea). Yes, hydration issue was a BIG thumbs down but there’s still something to drink (it’s not thirst quenching however).
On the bright side, sponging stations were adequate. Surau (prayer point) for Muslims runners were spot on. To add on, the traffic marshalls did a fantastic job. Overall, the logistics passed.
Performance aspect – It was a painful experience for me throughout the race. A week prior to the race, I torn my lower back muscles after a session of Les Mills BodyStep® at the gym. I even considered pulling out of the race.
I was lucky enough that the pain subsides after a few days, and being adamant, I still decided to continue with the plan. In the end, I still managed a sub 3 finish despite having to break into walks at certain point.
Finisher Entitlement
I’ll let the pictures do the talking.
Finisher shirt. Photo courtesy: Official Event FB page.
It was worth the trip.
Stay tune folks.
(Review was written on a tablet. Pardon any errors made.)
Last year while new to running, decided to give trail running a shot. So when Zooom 5K (Only realised it had 3 ‘O’s in the ZoooM this morning) came up, I duly registered for it. It was supposed to have been my first trail run (albeit only for 3km) but I had actually experienced the Green Corridor since.
BIB collection can be done on the race day itself or the day before, which was when I collected. The rest of the race pack are to be collected after the run instead, which is something unique as compared to other runs.
A rather peaceful event site
Pre-run Ritual: Photo with Chee Beng and Justina (image credit: Justina)
Race day collection of BIBs by other runners went on rather well for my friends who were there as well. We were given a short route brief by the event organiser, Ben, before we made our way to the starting line shortly before 0730hrs and at 0730hrs sharp, off we went.
Off we go! (image credit: Wilson Ong)
The route itself was quite straightforward and I was told later that is actually the standard cross country route used by schools. We ran through about 3km of trails, which was pretty dry considering it might have rained there yesterday, before turning towards Lornie Road where we ran the last 2km. This being just a 5km route, so there was only 1 hydration station near the 3.5km mark which was fine. Shortly after, I ended my run at the Starting turned Finishing point, collected my race pack, and that was it.
Race pack courtesy of Chiu Ping as I had eaten my Mamee before photo taken 😛
Giant medal
Overall the race experience was pretty good, with a very casual atmosphere about it, though the presence of the F1 runners did add a certain competitive buzz to it. There were photographers aplenty it seems too. Was also kinda interesting to see the volunteers cutting fresh watermelons there. At least now we know they were indeed fresh. 😉
Refreshment station where volunteers are still cutting fresh watermelons
Collection of race pack
So for those who wanted to experience a bit of trail running but not too much, ZoooM 5K would be a rather good choice to do so as the route is not tough and distance of 5km is just nice.
Me in action. Photo so nicely taken, must share! (image credit: Wilson Ong)
The running community in Singapore is incredible. Come on, it’s something we have to all agree on. There’s a whole community of people here for you to run with, have fun with and learn from. At the same time, running can be a very personal experience. Whether you’ve always been running or you’ve just started and a “Couch to 5K” program seems to be made just for you, your progress is all about you and for your own sense of accomplishment.
The first time you run a 5K or plan to would feel exciting! You’d be getting a race bib with your name on it and join a whole crowd decked in the same race shirt. But if it’s your first time, there’s going to be so much information about training and nutrition to take in that you end up being overwhelmed.
Here, we take out 3 things you MUST KNOW to conquer your first 5K.
#1 Set a goal
Since it’s your first, any timing you do is going to be a personal best. We’re not asking you to be too hard on yourself here. However, setting a rough goal time would motivate you to get off the couch and get in weekly training runs. You can make use of the Race Time Calculator to get a rough gauge. Just recall the time you did during your 2.4km at NAPFA (or IPPT) and that would be sufficient!
#2 Fix weekly run days
Photo Credit: Nike
Excuses are a first-timer’s best friend, unfortunately. Even now, I try to convince myself that it’s going to rain and I shouldn’t be out. So to avoid that, sit yourself down and schedule certain days as run days. Maybe you get off work early on that day, or you’re starting the next day later and can afford a morning run. Putting all these assigned run days down in your diary is also going to mentally prepare you for a run that day. Alternatively, join a run group! They would usually have weekly runs and there’d be friends to encourage you as well.
#3 Opt for wholegrain
Running is pretty energy-consuming. Obviously, you’re going to feel hungrier after that. With all the different nutritional (and marketing) information going around, you might not know what to eat to remain healthy and lean. Keeping it simple – we need carbs and the best sources of carbs around is wholegrain. So have a plate of brown rice or quinoa after your run. Choose to have wholemeal sandwiches and oats for breakfast instead of your usual cereal.
There are tons of upcoming 5K races. You can search for what you like here. We’ve also compiled the next 5 races that are still open for registration!
When I first started running, I felt like an awkward toy soldier – out of coordination and not fitting in anywhere. If you want to read more, here are 5 advices we’d give first-timers that can make your race experience better. Remember to give yourself a pat on the back for starting on this journey and that this running experience is something very much your own.
Races with obstacle challenges can be daunting to some of us. But it is also a good way to test your overall physique, and a good reason for you to train yourself to become stronger. Likewise, the Reebok Spartan Race may be tough, but it does not mean you cannot conquer it. Let these two extraordinary stories below show you that anything is possible as long as you set your mind to it:
Loh Chee Khoon
“I don’t wish to have regrets in the future. Because in the past 22 years I have wasted alot of opportunities in my life. I don’t see my disability as a disadvantage.”
Born without his left arm, Loh Chee Khoon was overweight and had practically no interest in sports. However, things changed when a colleague persuaded him to sign up at a gym. He started to lose weight, and become stronger, changing his life for the better. Now, even with only one arm, he makes burpees look like light work. Despite his disability, Chee Koon has a die-hard and never give up attitude. Do look out for him at this year’s race!
Suzie & Sherilyn
“The key is to challenge yourself. It’s not the age.”
This grandmother & granddaughter team is not something you get to see all the time. In fact, 64 year-old Suzie is stronger than many other grandmothers and can even complete a Spartan race. She shows us that being young at heart is an attitude, and it is never too old to challenge yourself. She can even be seen helping other participants with some obstacles at the Reebok Spartan Race. Full of enthusiasm and life, Suzie serves as an inspiration for us to live our life with motivation and to always strive to be better.
Experience The Spartan In Singapore
Reebok Spartan Race is the world’s best obstacle course race, designed to push your limits, test your strength, and challenge your endurance. With over 240 races in 25 countries around the world this year, Reebok Spartan Race is returning to Singapore on 7 May 2016!
$20 OFF Spartan Super Singapore 2016
Spartan Super runners, you are not excluded! Enjoy $20.00 OFF – Use promo code: JRLMSP2016 during check-out to enjoy the discount.
$25 OFF Spartan Sprint Singapore 2016
Do you want to do the Spartan Sprint instead? We are happy to provide all JustRunLah! subscribers with a discount of $25.00 (U.P. $108.00 / Discounted: $83.00)! Use promo code: JRLM2016 during check-out to claim the special price.
