More people taking up running as temperatures rise
Bloemfontein is seeing a familiar seasonal surge in outdoor running, with both newcomers and former runners returning to the streets as the weather warms, ofm.co.za reported. Jaco Ebertsohn, chairman of the Bloemfontein Striders running club, said the upswing is partly driven by people aiming to achieve a “summer body” and by the social and mental-health benefits of training outdoors.
Ebertsohn described two main groups among those using Bloemfontein roads: a core of committed athletes who train year-round for specific targets such as the Comrades Marathon, and a larger cohort of recreational runners who tend to be more active in warmer months.
| Group | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Die‑hard runners | Train through all seasons; prepare for specific events |
| Summer or casual runners | Join or return to running mainly when weather is warm; often less long‑term goal oriented |
Growth in the local running community
Over the last three years, Ebertsohn said, the running community across Bloemfontein has expanded. The increase includes completely new runners starting from scratch as well as experienced runners who stopped for a period and are now coming back.
“The sport of running has grown a lot. It’s almost as if running has become one of the popular activities among the new generation,” he told ofm.co.za. He added that outdoor training offers a sense of freedom and a positive effect on mental wellbeing.
“Apart from that, the idea of training outside gives us that feeling of freedom that we are looking for most of the time, and that has a massive impact on our mental health as well.”
Injury prevention and safety advice
Club leaders are urging anyone returning to running after a winter layoff to increase activity gradually to avoid injuries. Ebertsohn warned that experienced runners often make the mistake of resuming full training too quickly after breaking for winter, which is when many injuries occur.
He also highlighted safety precautions for Bloemfontein runners, particularly women, and recommended running with others rather than alone. The technological devices runners commonly wear — phones, smartwatches and earphones — can make them targets, and running in groups reduces that risk.
- Start slowly: build mileage and pace over weeks rather than days to reduce injury risk.
- Run in groups: encourages safety and social connection; good for women and newcomers.
- Be visible: wear high‑visibility clothing when training in low light.
- Share the road: motorists should expect more runners and adjust driving accordingly.
Ebertsohn noted the importance of motorists adapting to increased pedestrian activity. “Motorists have to get used to sharing the road again since more people will be running,” he said, stressing mutual responsibility between drivers and runners.
Local consequences and what residents should know
For Bloemfontein residents, the seasonal return of runners has several practical implications. Neighbourhoods around popular routes will see more foot traffic during mornings and evenings. Local law enforcement, community groups and running clubs often coordinate informal patrols or buddy systems to improve safety for vulnerable runners.
Running clubs such as the Bloemfontein Striders also play a role in educating new runners about training schedules, hydration and footwear choices — factors that reduce injury and improve enjoyment of the sport.
As warmer months progress, residents should expect more organised and casual runs across parks and streets. Those planning to drive near well‑used routes are advised to slow down, pass with caution and allow space for runners. New runners are reminded to consult a medical professional if they have pre‑existing conditions before increasing their activity.
With the right precautions — gradual training, group runs, visibility measures and respectful road sharing — Bloemfontein’s growing running community can continue to expand while minimising injuries and safety risks for everyone.
