While running clubs exist to promote healthy habits, and some are getting fit and training for races, it is also becoming an ideal way to meet possible partners at the finish line and build lasting bonds in real life.

Platforms such as TikTok and Strava are not only filled with stories of runners sharing their accomplishments, but these also serve as matchmaking services.

Amid this new trend, running enthusiasts who became couples discussed trade-offs when it comes to run club dating. Among them are Jomm Ephraim Lacanilao-Gay and his girlfriend Jessica Lina, whose shared love of running brought them together.

Recalling the first time he saw Lina running in the village with her friends, Lacanilao-Gay shared: "We didn't know each other yet… I saw them and they were also consistent and that's what pushed me talaga to introduce myself."

"Until now, we're still running and that’s four years ago already… I think if there’s one thing that’s been consistent with my relationship with Jomm, it’s running,” Lina added. 

"We never run out of things to talk about. We talk about our dream races even internationally, our training, gears, and our favorite athletes, and the list is never-ending… That is why we are seeing each other's progress over the years."

Photo courtesy of Jessica Lina

When asked if a run club is a good alternative to dating sites, Lina replied: "We know a lot of people who got together just through this sport. But also, I'd like to say that people joined run clubs because they love running first and foremost, and then dating is a bonus."

Their passion for running has led to different achievements, with the couple joining countless marathons -- both local and international -- and bagging multiple titles.

"I found myself in the podium a couple of times and I actually work with a lot of awesome brands through running, met a lot of people whom I consider good friends, and I met Jomm that really changed my life," Lina said.

Like Lacanilao-Gay and Lina, Adidas Runners Manila's Criselda Del Rosario and Francis Parreñas explained that while running clubs can be a great way to meet people, the primary purpose should be one's personal well-being. 

For them, running is an integral part of their bond as they get to navigate their differing personalities and learn how to work on each other's strengths and weaknesses.

"Focus on your own goals, whether it's improving your physical health, reducing stress, or achieving a specific running distance," Parreñas said.

"It's important to have a partner who shares the same interest with you because they understand the struggles. They know you need to sleep early for a long run or there will be days when you just want to stay in bed, and they know about the highs and lows of running," he added.

Photo courtesy of Francis Parrenas

For TikTok content creator and running couple Aaron Tan and Johanna Pupos, only one of them was originally into the sport. 

"Noong bago pa lang kami… kasi siya into running, kaya ako nagpapa-cute lang, kunwari tumatakbo ganyan," Tan admitted. "One time niyaya niya ako mag-run kami, and that's one of our first dates."

"Part of our getting to know each other was inviting him to run with me," Pupos recounted.

Photo courtesy of Johanna Pupos

Pupos also explained that she is doing it for fun rather and not competitively. "And now that he joined me when it comes to running, it became more of a bonding, rather than training. Hindi ko siya iniisip as something competitive, it's more of an activity for us," she said.

"As beginners, marami kasing natatakot to get into running because they feel intimidated. But you don't have to join a race right away, learn how to enjoy it first. Kasi the race is just an event, but running regularly is what's hard. Take it step by step, and then during the race itself is when you get rewarded," she added.

The couple also agreed that although running groups are a great opportunity to make new friends and form a community, romantic relationships are not the focus.

Pupos stated, however, that in some ways, it's a better and safer option for girls than online dating apps because people don't really get to know someone online.

"Don't force it or don’t get into running just to be with someone. Kung makahanap ka ng someone na same kayo ng gusto, why not? Pero kung ang purpose mo lang ay to get hookups, to date someone through run clubs, I don't think it's the best motivator," Tan said.

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