In recent years, running has become a popular trend in Namibia, especially in the capital city, Windhoek. 

People of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels are taking to the streets, either walking or jogging, as they embrace a healthier and more active lifestyle. This boom in popularity can be traced back to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, when many people were forced to reassess their daily routines to find new outlets for physical activity.

The shift towards running became evident as restrictions on socialising and access to gyms left people with limited options. With gyms closed and group activities prohibited, many turned to running – a simple, accessible form of exercise that didn’t require special equipment or crowded spaces. 

What began as a temporary solution to cope with the pandemic has now evolved into a widespread passion, with an ever-growing number of people in Windhoek lacing up their shoes and hitting the pavement.

One of the standout contributors to this running movement is the Windhoek Runners Club, which has become a central hub for running enthusiasts. Yet, it’s not just organised clubs that are fuelling this change – individuals are also taking it upon themselves to rise early, often at around 05h30, to go on their daily runs. 

One popular route is past the Daan Viljoen roadblock, where runners challenge themselves on the 5-kilometre and 10km routes, while the toughest among them take on the daunting 21-km run.

Experienced runners

Frans Amakali, a seasoned runner and ambassador for the prestigious Comrades Marathon, shared insights on the running phenomenon in Windhoek. With over a decade of experience in running and physical fitness, Amakali has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of running. 

“Running, for me is more than just a sport – it is a lifestyle that fosters discipline, mental clarity, and a deep connection with oneself and the environment. The growing number of runners in Windhoek speaks to a shift in how people perceive health and fitness.

“Indeed, the Covid-19 pandemic played a significant role in the surge of running in Namibia. With gyms shuttered and social activities halted, people were forced to rethink their approach to staying active. Running, being one of the most accessible and straightforward forms of exercise, became the go-to activity for many. What started as a temporary measure has now evolved into a full-fledged movement, with people of all ages embracing running as a way to stay fit, improve their mental health, and build a sense of community.

“For younger people, running offers a social and competitive outlet. Many have taken to joining local running clubs, where they can train together, share tips, and participate in marathons and fun runs. For older generations, running serves as a means to maintain mobility, improve cardiovascular health, and stay engaged in an active lifestyle. 

“What I love most about running is its transformative power. It instills resilience, clears the mind, and teaches valuable life lessons about perseverance,” Amakali said. “Whether you are chasing personal bests or simply enjoying a morning jog, running is a journey that enriches both the body and soul,” Amakali added further. 

Lisa Matombola, also from the Windhoek City Runners, echoed similar sentiments. For her, running brings a sense of excitement and accomplishment. “Running has different benefits – it has contributed to my confidence. Most runners become more confident when they run, especially long distances. It reminds us of the unlocked potential we have and our ability to achieve our goals,” she added.

But for Matombola, running offers more than just personal growth – it also opens doors to networking and relationship-building. “For some, running is an opportunity to build relationships and networks. Many runners are professionals, and running provides an easier way to connect with mentors, business partners, coaches, or people you wouldn’t typically meet on a daily basis,” she added. 

Matombola added that running teaches her valuable life skills like communication, patience, emotional intelligence, and how to celebrate others and encourage them to reach their potential.

She further explained that the rise in running can also be attributed to corporate and community initiatives. 

“Many companies are using running events as team-building exercises, with some even covering the costs for employees to participate in runs in places like Cape Town. These activities are part of larger employee engagement efforts that promote both wellness and teamwork. 

Matombola herself runs marathons to raise awareness for important causes, such as blood donation, women’s health, anemia, and fibroids. “I ran a marathon and raised funds for Singalamwe Combined School learners who needed school uniforms,” she explained.

Expert opinion 

Martin Angombe, Strength and Conditioning coach said running is a crucial element in many sports, enhancing endurance, speed, and agility. “Whether you’re a footballer, basketball player, or casual runner, incorporating running into your training routine can significantly improve overall athletic performance.

“One of the biggest benefits of running is improved cardiovascular endurance. It strengthens the heart and lungs, ensuring better oxygen delivery to muscles, which helps athletes sustain high-intensity performance for longer periods while reducing fatigue.

“Running also enhances speed and agility, particularly through sprinting and interval training. This is especially beneficial for sports requiring quick bursts of acceleration and rapid direction changes, such as soccer, football, and basketball,” said Angombe. 

He added that endurance running plays a key role in stamina and recovery. “It helps athletes maintain energy levels throughout a match or game while also aiding muscle recovery by increasing blood flow and reducing soreness.

“Additionally, running strengthens muscles and joints, improving core stability and resilience. This is essential for sports involving jumping, cutting movements, and balance, ultimately reducing the risk of injuries and enhancing durability.”

Furthermore, he added that beyond the physical benefits, running builds mental toughness and discipline. Long-distance running, in particular, improves focus and resilience, helping athletes perform under pressure. 

“Whether for professionals or recreational runners, integrating running into training offers invaluable physical and mental advantages.” 

Looking ahead, the upcoming running season in Namibia promises to be exciting. A wide range of events are scheduled. The recently concluded Rossing Marathon and MTC Runners Connect have set the stage for an action-packed year. 

On 29 March, the SPAR Women’s Challenge will take place at the Wanderers Sports Ground, offering both 5km and 10km races. The Vivo Energy Windhoek Marathon will be held on 12 April, featuring full marathon, half-marathon, 10km, and 5km categories. 

Other major events include the Sanlam Coastal Marathon set for 26 April, Bank Windhoek Red Run, NBC Marathon, and the Bachmus Marathon. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na