Rundefeated

For years, I firmly believed that living near a running track was one of the best hacks to staying consistent with a training plan. No need to drive, no need to fight traffic, no need to wrestle with excuses like “it’s too far, it’s raining, it’s already dark, the cat looks sad.” I even wrote about it once — passionately declaring that a track five minutes from your house beats the prettiest riverside trail if it takes 45 minutes to get there. It turns out, the universe was listening.

Because now, dear reader, my office was relocated right in front of Kebun Raya Bogor. Yes — the botanical garden. The grand, green, oxygen factory that’s been sitting in the heart of Bogor since the Dutch decided “this humid jungle could use a European-style park.” And let me tell you: it’s like having Central Park in New York, but swap the joggers in Lululemon for uncles in sandals, birdwatchers, and school kids on field trips.

I didn’t request this. I didn’t scout out office spaces based on proximity to running routes. They just moved me to a new office, and as luck would have it, it’s facing one of the best running spots in the country. When I stepped out of the building for the first time and saw those massive ancient trees and endless footpaths — I knew destiny had intervened. No more pacing around tiny parking lots or sprinting through alleys dodging angry chickens and motorbikes. Now, I have a lush, historic 87-hectare garden ready to swallow my stress, one lap at a time.

The best part? It’s not even a track. It’s better. You get a mix of flat paths, shady tree tunnels, gentle slopes, and the occasional deer casually crossing your route for that surprise agility drill. You can choose whether to be a disciplined distance runner or a casual stroller pretending to take a phone call while secretly logging kilometers for your weekly mileage. I’ve done both. Sometimes in the same lunch break.

The impact on my training routine has been ridiculous. I no longer need to wake up absurdly early to squeeze in a run before work. I can now split my run into two sessions: 3K in the morning, 4K after lunch. Or a single 7K sunset jog before heading home, waving at families having picnics and teenagers taking 87 selfies in front of the lily ponds. It’s a luxury I never thought I’d have — and it’s made me realize how much your environment influences your commitment to fitness.

So, to anyone struggling to stay consistent: it’s not always about discipline. Sometimes it’s about logistics. Live near a track. Work near a park. Or at least pick a route where the only traffic you’ll dodge is a deer. Your running shoes will thank you. And if you’re ever in Bogor, drop by Kebun Raya. I might be the guy sprinting past with a smug grin during lunch break.