Reviving the Joy of Running: How a Small Community in the Philippines is Making a Big Impact
The world of running has undergone a significant transformation over the years. In the Philippines, the sport experienced a surge in popularity from 2010 to 2015, with running events becoming a staple in major cities like BGC and MOA. The “RunRio effect” played a significant role in this growth, introducing world-class standards and organization to the sport. However, as the years went by, the running community began to shift its focus from competitive events to grassroots efforts and genuine community building.
A New Era of Running
Today, running communities are on the rise once again, but with a different approach. Gone are the days of relying on big corporate sponsors; instead, organizers are focusing on building meaningful relationships and connections among members. Run clubs are replacing happy hours, and the focus has shifted from cardio to connection. This movement is not limited to Metro Manila; it’s alive and well in the provinces, where groups like Run Capiz are proving that fitness can be a powerful vehicle for mental health and community building.
The Story of Run Capiz
Run Capiz was founded by Frederick Estacio, a freelance virtual assistant with a passion for running. Estacio noticed that there were no established running communities or fitness groups in Capiz, particularly in Roxas City, and decided to bring the culture of running and fitness to the entire province. He created a Facebook page and started posting free community runs every weekend, which slowly but steadily grew into a thriving community.
From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Community
Estacio’s vision for Run Capiz was to create a space where people could come together, connect, and support one another, regardless of their fitness level or background. The community was open to everyone, from beginners to elite athletes, and Estacio’s wife often served as the sweeper, providing hydration and support to runners. As the community grew, Estacio formed a core team of dedicated members who shared his passion and values.
The Impact of Run Capiz
The impact of Run Capiz on the community has been significant. After the pandemic, many people had become inactive, stressed, and disconnected. However, as the Run Capiz community runs became more consistent and visible, people slowly started moving again. The community saw real, meaningful impact, with many members reaching out to express gratitude for building a space that helped them cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal tendencies.
Beyond Running: Fostering Connections and Community
For the members of Run Capiz, the weekend runs are not just about exercise; they’re about connection and community. After runs, the group often spends time together, having coffee by the beach or sharing meals. These moments foster friendships, support systems, and a sense of belonging that goes far beyond running. Estacio’s vision for Run Capiz is to prove that fitness is not just about competition, but about community.
Training and Events
Run Capiz organizes multiple events throughout the year, including fun runs, fitness events, and obstacle course racing-style competitions. The team members train individually, but also conduct group training sessions, especially when preparing for events. Their training includes hill repeats, high-intensity interval training, weekly long-distance runs, core and upper-body strength workouts, and hikes during the summer season.
A Sustainable Future for Run Capiz
Looking ahead, Estacio hopes to transform Run Capiz into a structured and sustainable fitness institution. He plans to partner with certified organizations to offer proper fitness education and injury-prevention clinics, ultimately formalizing the support system. As Estacio puts it, Run Capiz aims to prove that in Capiz, “fitness is not about competition alone, but about community.” The story of Run Capiz serves as a reminder that the true power of running lies not in the act of running itself, but in the connections and community it fosters.
