How to run the extra mile to fitness

MANILA, Philippines - As a calorie-buster, immunity-booster, and cardio workout, running ranks as one of the most popular fitness routines of Filipinos, as proven by the many races and fun runs being organized around the country.

For those who are just getting into the sport, or are already turning into seasoned runners, there are many ways to step up their game and reach the next level. Here are a few quick tips:

1. Warm up, and then stretch. Running requires plenty of work from our core and leg muscles, so it is important to warm up cold muscles before stretching to prevent injury.

2. Keep yourself hydrated. Make it a habit to drink water or, better yet, electrolyte-based sports drinks to replenish lost minerals.

3. Wear breathable, dry running clothes. Avoid cotton shirts and socks, because the material is made to absorb sweat and moisture. Invest in tops that allow your skin to breathe, keeping you cool and dry. For women, a sturdy sports bra absorbs shock, supports the breasts but does not restrict blood flow.

4. Use sun block. To prevent sunburn and skin cancer in the scorching Manila weather, don’t forget to apply a sweat-proof sun block to exposed areas of your body like your arms, the back of your neck, and legs.

5. Invest in a good pair of shoes. Pick shoes that conform to your running style. Choose only comfortable shoes that you can run with. Comfortable running shoes are essential to avoid foot injuries, sprains, and black toenails known as runners’ toes from too much friction at the front of the foot.

6. Sign up for a fun run, or a marathon. Being in the company of fellow running enthusiasts is a great way to be motivated and take your game to the next level, whether it’s to compete or to simply have fun while getting fit.

With fun runs and marathons, even ultra marathons being organized on a regular basis, it can be quite overwhelming for a runner to sign up and register. Fortunately, many organizers have streamlined the process by partnering with acclaimed sports and fitness equipment hub Chris Sports.

Now in its 26th year, Chris Sports has been supporting the Filipino’s passion for health and fitness by providing quality products and services, and has likewise transformed itself into a stress-free, one-stop registration center for various sporting events, along with an array of other sporting competitions, including the multisport, kayaking, swimming, tennis, sports fishing, badminton, mountain climbing, corporate sports and fitness events, among others.

“As a total sports registration hub, Chris Sports encourages Filipinos to get fit and live a healthy and active lifestyle. Engaging in various sports events such as marathons and tournaments helps people share their fitness goals with like-minded peers and develop practical values of sportsmanship, patience, and discipline,” says Arleen Lindo, Chris Sports marketing manager.

“Better equipment, better games is our maxim at Chris Sports. A healthy, fit body is the bane of illnesses and diseases, that’s why we encourage Filipinos to be active. We are their partner in their fitness goals, sporting activities, and competitions. Chris Sports equips them with the safest, most durable, and technologically-advanced gear to help them get fit, play harder, and care for their bodies more,” emphasizes Gilbert Tang, Chris Sports managing director.

Chris Sports is every sportsman’s shopping haven with its roster of world-class and exclusive sports and fitness equipment brands, including Ultimate Direction, Team Eight, and Tiger Tail, NordicTrack, Proform. Soon to be introduced is the RIP 60, which is guaranteed to give health buffs a total body transformation. Chris Sports is also introducing the Swiss brand On Running, limitedly showcased in selected branches, running shoes engineered to provide cushioning on impact and speed on push off; and SKLZ, for every coach and athlete’s training tool for better performance.

Chris Sports has more than 30 outlets nationwide including Glorietta 3, Festival Mall, SM North Edsa and The Annex, Ayala Cebu, the newly opened D’Mall Boracay, and Davao Abreeza  branches in Visayas and Mindanao,  plus the new location at the second level of SM Megamall B. For details, call 818-61-24 and 633-1659 or visit www.chrissports.net and The Official Chris Sports Fan Page.