We're still running – Amakali

LIMBA MUPETAMIWINDHOEKRunners around the country and world are taking to the streets and trails to keep their fitness up and immune systems strong as gyms have closed due to the coronavirus outbreak.One such runner is a member of the Windhoek City Runners Club, Frans Amakali, who said they are still at it, despite the 21-day lockdown.Amakali, who was in February involved in staging the Ya Toivo Half Marathon, said given the lockdown, they are not able to run as a team, however, the club urges its members to run in groups of not more than three people.'Personally, I do my long runs on the Daan Viljoen road since we are still allowed to run outside, unlike in South Africa,' he added. Stay strong'The activity can keep your immune system and lungs strong and give you a mood boost. Plus, you don't have to touch any surfaces,' Amakali said. He urged runners to take the necessary precautions as provided by World Health Organisation (WHO).'The WHO recommended that we avoid shaking hands. If you have any symptoms, for example a sore throat, tight chest, cough or sneezing, avoid running and call the local Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for assistance.Amakali further encouraged avid runners to wash their hands regularly and to carry a small hand sanitizer they can use to disinfect their hands with. 'Times like these are also a great opportunity to work on our weaknesses, hence strength training is an area we can improve on.” Lastly, he advised that runners should stay strong. 'Let's keep running, this too shall come to pass.'Keep busyAnother avid runner, Hilma Paulus, who also regularly jogs on the Daan Viljoen road, said it's the only thing that keeps her sane and busy over the weekend. 'With instructions given to exercise social distancing, right now, jogging is the only thing I have going for me,' she said.Enthusiastic runners across Windhoek have been making use of the Daan Viljoen road to walk and jog for months. The starting point is the roadblock. Runners either run five, 10 or 20km, with visible markings on the road informing them of the kilometres executed.

We're still running – Amakali

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

Please login to leave a comment

We're still running – Amakali

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

Please login to leave a comment

Login