BY Running on a treadmill in the gym can be uninspiring and boring, and around your home can get monotonous after a few weeks, so if you’re keen to start a running routine, be sure to check out these five running routes.
The Southern Ridges Trail
Seasoned runners seeking a challenging route should definitely attempt the Southern Ridges Trail, which spans 9km and comprises a number of uphills. The route connects three parks: Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Kent Ridge Park, which means runners can expect to be surrounded by an abundance of lush greenery. The route is separated into eight different trails, namely Marang Trail, Faber Trail, Henderson Waves, Hilltop Walk, Forest Walk, Alexandra Arch, Flora Walk and HortPark, and the Canopy Walk.
While this route can be tough for beginners, we assure you that it will be worth the effort as you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and clean, fresh air. If you get tired, walking is always an option too.
Among all the trails, our favourite has to be the Forest Walk. The elevated walkway, which comprises a metallic zig-zag structure, offers a unique experience of running through a tropic forest at eye-level, and there is a constant breeze of fresh air as you run through the treetops.
The Green Corridor
As its name suggests, the ‘Green Corridor’ consists of an uninterrupted stretch of of trees and bushes, which easily makes one feel as though they are running in the countryside. The scenic route used to run the entire length of Singapore, from the old Tanjong Pagar Rail station in the south to the border of Malaysia in the north. Spanning approximately 10.5km, runners could start off at the historic Tanjong Pagar Rail station and run along the green corridor to finish at the old Bukit Timah Rail station. The surface of the course is a combination of trail, grass, gravel and clay.
The southern section has since been closed for redevelopment, but the northern end remains open and one of the popular entry points is near the base of Bukit Timah Hill.
MacRitchie Reservoir
The perfect route for long distance runners, MacRitchie offers up to almost 11km of terrain. The full loop, comprising a combination of trail, pavement and boardwalk, is by no means easy - the undulating trail is challenging and is best attempted by those who run on a regular basis. That said, runners can customise their own routes, for example, they can start off at the boardwalk or head straight for the dirt tracks. Nature lovers will like that they can take it a wide variety of biodiversity while running through the forest.
This route is also suitable for night runs, but best go with experienced trail runners for that!
Marina Bay – Gardens by the Bay
Conveniently located in the heart of the city, this running route is hugely popular among runners working in the Central Business District. This route is not only traffic free, but it also offers scenic views of Singapore’s skyline and national garden. A medium distance running route would see one starting at Marina Barrage, towards Marina Bay Sands, Clifford Pier, Fullerton Hotel, the Esplanade, the Float, over the Helix Bridge and back towards the Barrage. For those who wish to run a bit longer, they can increase the distance by covering the Singapore River, this will add another 12km or so. Alternatively, continue running past the Stadium on the Geylang bicycle track park connector for an additional 6km.
Coney Island
With its rustic charm, Coney Island, which was previously known as Pulau Serangoon, makes for a unique running route. For those who wish to enjoy the island’s wide biodiversity, they can just begin and end their run at the island, which will make it a leisurely 6.4km round trip. But for the more advanced runners seeking more challenge, extend the route along the Punggol Promenade and the Punggol Riverside walk – the island connects to both seamlessly. What we really enjoy about this route is the lack of traffic and abundance of lush vegetation.
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