Some see them as dating opportunities, while for others, it's a chance to learn more about themselves.

Synopsis: The Usual Place host Natasha Ann Zachariah hunts for new perspectives on issues that matter to young people.

Becoming a runner has always lingered in Natasha's mind, especially now that it’s a 'thing' with young people. She sees others joining run clubs and signing up for marathons and triathlons, and even flying overseas to run in events or various locations.

In this episode, she invites two runners to help her understand why they do it, and what keeps them coming back for more.

Meliani Lee is a budding enthusiast who just decided one day to buy a nice pair of running shoes, while being deskbound in her job as a client lifecycle management specialist. She started long-distance running in 2023, and last year, completed one full marathon and three half-marathons.

Arthur Tong is the founder and head coach of Elevate Performance Coaching. As an Ironman-certified coach, his philosophy isn’t just about crossing finish lines, but about creating meaningful, lasting transformation.

Highlights (click/tap above):

5:22 Advantages of running: Can you start at any age?

9:26 Is running the new 'dating trend'? Importance of community too, to support running newbies

14:19 How do you get better or faster at running in marathons?

16:08 When do you know you are ready?

18:00 What they learn about themselves when it comes to running

23:07 Helping people discover their own 'whys' in discovering running

27:47 Calling couch potatoes: How to get out of the door and show up?

Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)

Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm

Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav

Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN

Filmed by ST Video: Joel Chng and T Kumar

Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh, Natasha Liew & Rebekah Chia

ST Podcasts’ executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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