Let’s face it: the Internet has been our daily driver. From the moment we wake up to the time when we are about to sleep, we use the Information Superhighway to stay informed, connect to our loved ones, and satisfy our curiosity about what is happening to the world we live in.
Just like the World Wide Web, social media has also become a powerful tool. News and information, entertainment, what your friends are up to, your next meal, your next 𝑏𝑢𝑑𝑜𝑙 find—practically everything and anything can be found on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok, to name a few.
At the same time, social media platforms are, well, platforms for fitness influencers to extend their passion to Filipinos. Over the years, the likes of Jaymie Pizarro (@thebullrunner), coach Rio de la Cruz (@coach_rio316), Kim Atienza (@kuyakim_atienza), and Alexandra Faith Garcia (@f8garcia) have been instrumental in encouraging their followers to lace up their running shoes and switch to a healthy lifestyle.
Facebook groups and pages have the same impact for runners. Pinoy Fitness Community, Takbo.ph, and a bevy of private and public groups provide a space for Filipino runners to connect, meet new friends, and share their insights. Some of these groups have grown to over a thousand who actively share their expertise, experiences, and aspirations in the world of running.
These online groups also share a sense of belongingness with their members. With the right motivation and a lot of cheers, they make running and the decision to stay fit and healthy as enjoyable as possible. From veteran marathoners and ultramarathoners to those who are just starting out, runners from all walks of life can find a second family here.
Instagram, on the other hand, focuses on visual aspects and transforms its walls into a digital museum. Here you’ll find influencers amidst picturesque backdrops and scenic routes, even taking their selfies in famous landmarks as part of their strategy to promote running and documenting their fitness journey. Hashtags also add a layer of connectivity for Filipinos to reach out and meet like-minded individuals. From there they can celebrate together, may it be small wins to finishing their first marathon.
Fitness tracking app Strava functions as a way for athletes to connect with each other. It has been used by runners for years to track their runs, share their routes, and analyze data for future improvement.
Users also look to Strava to follow elite runners. Some share their times, performance metrics, and other information (even shoes!) for that much-needed motivation. In addition, Strava comes with a feature that allows runners to join challenges and groups, building yet another core structure in the growing running culture in the Philippines.
Social media has played a huge role in the recent “Running Era” experienced by Filipinos earlier this year. By providing a space where workouts are free, motivation comes in the form of likes and heart emojis, and with the tons of other runners that cheer you virtually, it’s a safe bet that running in the Philippines will continue to attract more people and make the country healthier, one step at a time.
