Looking for overnight jogging areas in the city? We've got you covered!
Aside from its benefits like better mental focus and sleep quality, jogging is a fun social activity where you can bond with fellow fitness junkies.
You may have seen some people bragging about their Strava achievements, comparing running shoes and accessories, or showing off their new jogging outfit on social media.
This is largely because this type of exercise doesn’t cost much, especially since there are jogging areas that are free for the public to use. You can go for a run alone or with friends, at your own pace or even set a goal to make it exciting.
Although it’s become one of the most popular fitness trends on the island, you will also find other people using these areas to stay fit. One might even say that these open spaces have become avenues for fitness enthusiasts to connect and socialize.
That being said, here’s our list of the best jogging areas in Cebu City.
- Cebu Business Park
Since the recent renovations of Cebu City Sports Center, Cebu Business Park (the area behind Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepción) has become a go-to jogging area for Cebuanos.
The sidewalks are wide enough for long sprints and leisurely strolls. The massive field of grass can also be used for sports like Flag Football and Ultimate Frisbee.
This is an ideal place for anyone because of how spacious and convenient the roads and sidewalks are. Joggers can run freely and create their own route around the park.
- IL Corso
At the back of IL Corso Lifemalls, there is a long walkway by the sea that is frequented by joggers. It’s known for its beachside atmosphere and scenic views, which have also made it a sightseeing hotspot.
The walkway is spacious enough for jogging, walking, or even cycling. You can start from the southside entrance of the mall and make your way to the CCLEX pedestrian lane entrance.
Unfortunately, only a few public transport options going to IL Corso are available. You can take the CiBus at IT Park, a taxi, or a habal-habal. There is a parking space for private vehicles as well.
- CCLEX
If you want to challenge yourself, consider running along what is considered the longest bridge in the Philippines. The Cebu Cordova Link Expressway has opened its pedestrian lane for runners, making it one of the most popular jogging areas in the city.
The CCLEX poses a difficult challenge for runners, since they have to run the entire 8.9-kilometer length of the bridge without turning back. It is recommended that you physically and mentally prepare yourself for this run, just like how some runners get in their practice before joining a marathon.
The CCLEX pedestrian lane opens as early as 5:00 AM until 3:30 PM, and there is no entrance fee. You might struggle to find a parking space if you start early, since stores nearby don’t open until later in the morning.
- Fuente Osmeña Circle
The polar opposite of CCLEX’s difficult length is the circular park found at the center of Cebu City. The Fuente Osmeña Circle is one of the city’s most popular nature parks and easiest jogging routes.
The circular track is paved and short, making it perfect for a casual jog anytime of the day. The trees surrounding the park offer some shade, and there are a couple of benches for you to rest on.
The best thing about Fuente is its accessibility. The area can get crowded though, so it’s best to go early in the mornings.
BEFORE VISITING THESE JOGGING AREAS, CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:
- Weather conditions
The weather can be a hindrance if you want to go jogging outside. The scorching heat can be uncomfortable, and the rain can be unpredictable and hazardous.
Before starting your jog, check your surroundings to see if it’s too hot or if it’s about to rain. Don’t worry about skipping your jogging exercise for the day. It’s best to go for a run or jog when it’s much safer.
- Time of the day
Early morning runs are good, especially before sunrise when it’s not too hot. They are also better for weight loss since jogging on an empty stomach burns body fat faster (2024). It’s also more ideal for increasing muscle mass since muscle-building hormones are at their peak.
Jogging at night, on the other hand, can feel much easier because oxygen levels and lung capacity are at their highest, giving you more endurance. Other benefits of jogging at night include lesser injuries since your body will have warmed up during the day.
- Jogging attire
It is recommended that you wear light clothing as Cebu can be very humid. Clothes made up of light material should suffice to allow the wind to move freely.
Add a couple more layers to increase perspiration or to stay warm during cold weather runs. Consider wearing a long sleeve fitness shirt that is light and flexible.
Invest in running shoes that keep your feet comfortable and are durable for long runs. Go for casual training shoes for light jogs or high-end running sneakers for long distance marathons.
- Road safety
Unfortunately, some roads in Cebu are too narrow for jogging that you may have to run alongside vehicles on the street. When running on highways and major roads, make sure to stay vigilant and alert.
You should also gauge whether or not you are physically fit before going out for a run or jog. Regulate your stamina and endurance by performing warmup and cooldown exercises before and after your run.
Seemingly every month, Cebu’s running community continues to grow with more and more tournaments, fun runs, and run clubs. It won’t be hard to find someone with similar interests.
All you need to do is visit any of these jogging areas and run alongside fellow joggers. It may be challenging for introverted runners, but once you connect with them, the bond you create will definitely add to your passion or interest in running.
With dozens of Cebuanos in their jogger eras, these locations put you closer to locals that can help you understand more things about the city and its neighboring islands.
These jogging areas are ideal for experiencing the great outdoors as well. You get to explore your surroundings and immerse yourself in nature. Plus, there’s nothing more rewarding than feeling the cool wind blow on your face when you’re about to finish your run for the day.
You’ll find that running or jogging can help boost your mood and reduce stress as well. After all, there’s a reason that the running community is growing in Cebu.
Check out these jogging areas and don’t hesitate to make friends along the way!
REFERENCES:
Toshi, Nikita. 2024. “Morning Run vs Evening Run – Which Is Better?”
https://pharmeasy.in/blog/morning-run-vs-evening-run-which-is-better/.
