Plogging: The eco-friendly fitness trend of running while litter picking
Embrace the practice of plogging
Do you know the latest fitness trend that is becoming globally popular? It is known as plogging.
This new trend is an innovative combination of 2 popular activities: running and plogging.
The goal is to improve not only fitness, but also the health of the planet.
In this article, we will examine the concept of plogging, its roots, its contribution to environmental protection and the essential tools for an effective plogging session.
What is plogging?
The term plogging comes from the combination of the Swedish words ‘plocka upp’, meaning ‘to collect’, and ‘jogga’, meaning ‘to run’.
The practice consists of running at a steady pace, but taking breaks to pick up litter along the way.
People involved in the activity wear gloves and carry reusable bags to collect the waste they find along the way.
Ploggers get a double benefit from their workout by integrating bending, squatting and stretching movements.
Besides cardiovascular exercise, they also enjoy strength training.
Origins of plogging
The idea of plogging originated in Sweden in 2016, when Erik Ahlström created the ‘Plogga’ movement within his environmental organisation ‘Let's Do It World!’.
Since then, plogging has gained global recognition through social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, which have inspired people around the world to practice this environmentally friendly form of exercise.
Promoting sustainability through plogging
By regularly participating in plogging sessions, people actively engage in promoting sustainability and reducing plastic pollution.
People plogging together, like ploggers, can help reduce the amount of waste and promote cleaner places through collective action.
Numerous plogging actions have been conducted around the world to raise awareness about the use of single-use plastic and other non-biodegradable materials that harm marine life and ecosystems.
These actions promote people's awareness towards more conscious consumption and encourage them to adopt a more ecologically sustainable lifestyle.
Equipment needed for plogging
To start plogging, all you need are a few basic essentials:
- Trainers: Trainers should provide adequate support and cushioning for both running and the occasional bending movements required during litter picking.
- Breathable clothing: Wear clothing suitable for the climate, using breathable materials that allow good freedom of movement and regulate body temperature.
- Gloves: Hands can be protected from sharp objects and contaminants in waste by using durable, waterproof gloves specially designed for outdoor use.
- Bags or containers: Sturdy bags or containers can be used to collect waste on the way to work. Choose reusable alternatives instead of disposable ones to further reduce the amount of waste produced.
- Hand sanitiser: To maintain hygiene after touching potentially dirty or hazardous materials, it is advisable to have hand sanitiser with you.
- Reflective clothing or accessories: If plogging at night or early in the morning, it is important to wear reflective clothing or accessories to be visible and ensure your safety.
- Sun protection: Always remember to use sunscreen, sunglasses, hats or other forms of protection when outdoors during peak sunshine hours.
Conclusion
Plogging is a great way for runners to participate in a fun and rewarding activity that benefits their health and the environment simultaneously. This movement should encourage every individual to take responsibility for keeping neighbourhoods and the entire planet Earth cleaner.
