Living a healthy lifestyle is fundamental to overall well-being, impacting every aspect of our lives from physical health to mental clarity.
Adopting habits that promote fitness, balanced nutrition and emotional resilience not only reduces the risk of chronic diseases but also enhances daily energy levels and quality of life.
With everything that’s been going on globally, stress and sedentary behaviours are prevalent, making conscious choices to incorporate exercise, mindful eating and adequate rest into our routines essential.
As the nation pushes forward with Vision 2035 for a healthier lifestyle, individuals are increasingly drawn to straightforward yet effective ways to stay fit.
Among these, running and jogging have gained remarkable popularity.
Not merely a fitness activity, this simple exercise has evolved into a widely embraced lifestyle, captivating enthusiasts both within the country and around the globe.
While running can easily be enjoyed solo, the growing interest in this activity has inspired the formation of running clubs.
These groups bring together individuals of all ages and fitness levels to share their passion for the sport and maintain a healthy lifestyle. One such informal club, born from this enthusiasm, can be spotted in the Belait District jogging along the scenic routes weaving through the housing area of Kampong Panaga.
ROUTE ROUTINE
Every Wednesday, runners of all ages and fitness levels gather at the Brunei Shell Recreation Club (BSRC), united by a shared passion for running and jogging.
This weekly meet-up fosters a sense of community, allowing participants to safely enjoy their pursuit of a healthy lifestyle in numbers.
Among the runners is Nurarina Aripin, who shared how the group organises their weekly sessions.
“Each week, we do slow runs to familiarise ourselves with the route,” she explained, highlighting the group’s commitment to consistency and camaraderie.
The gathering of like-minded individuals creates a supportive environment for both new and seasoned runners to enjoy the simple activity. This sense of community encourages consistency and motivation among participants.
“We begin with a simple warm-up session,” Nurarina explained, “followed by a briefing on safety and the route. With more people keen on starting running as a way to maintain a healthy lifestyle, these preparations are essential for ensuring everyone has a positive experience”.
In addition, she noted that crew members and veteran runners also participate in the weekly runs to ensure everyone’s safety.
“We steer clear of main roads, utilising the existing walkways in the surrounding area, which we refer to as the ‘Blue and Green Lane’. These paths are designated exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists.”
The club’s selection of this specialised walkway is crucial for ensuring runners’ safety, as this is a paramount concern. Beyond that, the route offers a serene environment sheltered by greenery, free from hazards that could pose risks to runners.
Nurarina highlighted that the safe and inclusive atmosphere has been well received by the participants.
“Our runners appreciate the tranquility and security of our chosen path, making their running experience both enjoyable and beneficial,” she said. This welcoming environment not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also fosters a strong sense of community among runners.
“Alhamdulillah, the reception has steadily increased week by week. People share their experiences with friends and family through word of mouth, encouraging and inspiring others to join the weekly runs,” added Nurarina.
CAMARADERIE BOOST
In addition to getting a jump start in running, she highlighted how the close-knit group formed around the shared passion for a healthy lifestyle. This camaraderie allows members to share tips and knowledge, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and benefits from the experience of seasoned runners.
With the rising interest in running and the formation of clubs reflecting a broader trend towards healthier, more active lifestyles, groups like this offer a unique blend of fitness, friendship, and community. They help individuals achieve their health goals safely and enjoyably, fostering a supportive environment that makes running a rewarding and social activity.
Embracing a healthy lifestyle is not just about extending life expectancy; it’s about enriching the quality of our years and fostering a vibrant, fulfilling existence. – Daniel Lim
