The Parkmall Fitness

CEBU, Philippines - Regular jogging and running is a good way to improve one's health and fitness.

Motleyhealth.com explained it well by pointing out that "jogging makes the heart stronger."

"It increases the capacity of the blood circulation and of the respiratory system. This is essential for maintaining fitness. It also speeds up the digestive system and can help relieve digestive problems. Many people who live a sedentary lifestyle develop digestive problems that can be improved with a healthier diet and some regular exercise," it added.

As for running, it can counteract depression, as all forms of exercise can help people cope with depression. Motleyhealth underlined that running increases the capacity to work and lead an active life. "The fitter you are, the more active you can be. There are so many more opportunities available to people who are healthier and fitter."

Parkmall believes in encouraging more and more people in the community to "develop a culture of fitness." That's why Parkmall opens its gates, as early as 6 a.m., to joggers and fitness enthusiasts and those who would like to have morning walks with their pets.

According to Ms. Yael Sacris-Torrejos, mall operations manager, free aerobics classes are offered at 6:30 a.m. on Sundays at the enclave garden led by instructors from Workout Fitness Center. "They need not worry because there is nothing to pay for. No membership fee. All they have to do is show up and enjoy with the rest of the fitness buffs," Torrejos assured.

A tai chi session to be carried out by members of the Science of Identity Foundation, led by Marsha Lloyd, will follow at 7:30 a.m.

On Saturdays, participants get the chance to rub elbows with Ms. Josephine Teria, recently adjudged Ms. Fitness in the Mr. and Ms. Philippines-Asia Bodybuilding Championships. She will lead the aerobics sessions at 5:30 p.m.

Torrejos said that from an initial 15 people (who even included Parkmall personnel), the following has built up eventually. "Latest count is around 200 people who enjoy the sessions with their families. Some come in groups. Siguro mga kabarkada or mga neighbors nila who have heard of the good news," Torrejos said.

Health benefits of aerobics, tai chi

Aerobic exercise, according to new-fitness.com, is any extended activity that makes you breathe hard while using the large muscle groups at a regular, even pace. Aerobic activities help make your heart stronger and more efficient. During the early part of exercise, your body uses stored carbohydrates and circulating fatty acids (the building blocks of fat molecules) for energy.

Why do we need to know more about aerobics? New-fitness has this to say: "without a doubt, aerobics is particularly helpful for weight control. Research consistently shows that regular physical activity, combined with healthy eating habits, is the most efficient and healthful way to control one's weight."

"Physical activity," it added, "helps control one's weight by using excess calories that otherwise would be stored as fat."

So, following a regular aerobics program gives you a "sense of commitment and control. These are two positive mental attitudes that help counteract stress."

Further, aerobic exercises relax tense muscles, thereby relieving your body's stress response.

As for tai chi, Mayo Clinic has a load of information on its many possible health benefits. It reported that the ancient art of tai chi "uses gentle flowing movements to reduce the stress of today's busy lifestyles and improve health."

Tai chi is sometimes described as "meditation in motion" because it promotes serenity through gentle movements - connecting the mind and body.

Also called tai chi chuan, it is noncompetitive. It is also a self-paced system of gentle physical exercise and stretching. To do tai chi requires one to perform a series of postures or movements in a slow, graceful manner. Each posture, according to mayoclinic.com, flows into the next without pause, ensuring that your body is in constant motion.

Earth Run, Dog-an

Mark December 18 on your calendar as Parkmall hosts "Earth Run." According to Torrejos, this would be the first to be done outside of Manila. This will be organized by the group of Christian Cortes responsible for the past Earth Runs at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, as well as Jack TV (Philippine cable TV network owned by Solar Entertainment Corp.). Route will be at the vicinity of Parkmall and the Cebu International Convention Center. Details are still on the drawing board, so stay tuned!

Meanwhile, the "Dog-an" event is for runners with dogs, so they can also let their pets join the 1.5K run, as dogs too need to exercise. Canine breeders and or trainers will be screening dogs based on their agility to specify categories.

To recall, Parkmall is the first establishment of its kind here in Cebu to have provided dog owners with a unique experience by developing not only family relationship, but also quality time with pets, as it allows shoppers to bring with them their dogs.