Got 5 runs in this week, all done around Naga City, steady and consistent, just the way I like it. Closed the week with a long run today, bringing the total mileage to 49.61km. Still in base-building mode, so most of the runs were in Zone 2, and that’s something worth talking about.
Zone 2 running is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most powerful tools for long-term endurance and aerobic development. It’s running at a pace where you can still hold a conversation. Heart rate stays low, breathing stays controlled, and while it may feel “easy,” the benefits go deep: It builds your aerobic base, improves fat-burning efficiency and helps with recovery and prevents overtraining.
It’s the kind of work that doesn’t give instant results, but over time, it rewires your body to go longer and stronger, without burning out.
Off the road, one of the more meaningful moments this week was reconnecting with Gideon Lasco during the launch of his latest book, Second Opinion: Essays on Health, Culture and Society.
It’s been 13 years since our last meeting in the mountains of Benguet, specifically, Mount Purgatory.
Check out our Mt Purgatory Hike
Hiking matters #318: Mt. Purgatory Traverse – From Bakian to Mt. Komkompol and back to Bokod
Mt. Purgatory Traverse/Mt. Pack-Mt. Komkompol (2,290/2,329+)
Hiking matters #317: Mt. Purgatory Traverse – The pine and mossy forests of Mt. Pack and Mt. Purgatory
During his short stay, we shared some light jogs and coffee catch-ups. Same Gideon, thoughtful, insightful, and grounded.
And to make the week even more interesting, we tried pickleball for the first time! A fun blend of tennis, table tennis, and badminton. It’s easy to pick up, but full of surprising depth once you get into it. Big thanks to Wren and Cecille for introducing us to the game, it might just become a new favorite cross-training activity!
All in all, a good reminder that progress doesn’t always have to be fast. Sometimes, it’s the slow miles, quiet mornings, and unexpected reunions that move us the most.
Glad to have met on the road some familiar and inspiring faces from Metro Run Club, Tony, Rica, and Anj. It’s always refreshing to see people who share the same energy and love for the run. Even simple nods remind me we’re part of something bigger than just our own miles.
Do not seek to follow in the footsteps of the wise. Seek what they sought.
Matsuo Bashō
OGRap 