Run commuting is catching on all around the world. Just ask Claudia Cruz, this month’s featured New Run Commuter. Over the past several years, Claudia and her sister, Silvia (founders of Corridaamiga), have been working on developing run commuting as a more popular form of active transportation in Brazil. In addition to that, the group also works on local advocacy and public safety issues, such as sidewalk repair/replacement. Claudia is currently abroad helping to expand Corridaamiga in Sydney, Australia.
Runner Basics
-
Name: Claudia Stuchi Cruz
-
Age: 31
-
City/State: Sydney/NSW
-
Profession/Employer: Compliance Analyst
-
Number of years running: 7
-
Number of races you participate in a year: 3
-
Do you prefer road or trail? I prefer to run on the trail because it is easier.
Run Commuting Gear
-
Backpack: For my backpack, I don’t care about brands. I just use one that is comfortable.
-
Shoes: Mizuno
-
Clothing: Comfortable clothes
-
Headgear: Just a visor when it is really sunny
-
Lights: I usually work out during the morning and don’t carry lights with me
-
Hydration: I don’t usually drink water if I’m running up to 10K. Above 10K, I will carry a bottle of water in my hands.
On Run Commuting
Why did you decide to start run commuting?
I have always been active and enjoyed exercise. In 2013, my twin sister studied in France, and she started run commuting there – to save money, to see the city, and to stay active. From there, she got inspired to spread this idea, and created an initiative in Brazil called Corridaamiga (“Running friends”), which inspires and supports people to run commute.
I was influenced by her to get started, and I assisted her in developing this movement of Corridaamiga in Brazil. Now I’m introducing the idea of Corridaamiga in Sydney, and I’m finding that a lot of people here are interested.
How often do you run commute?
Twice a week.
How far is your commute?
7km each way.
Do you pack or buy a lunch?
I pack my lunch. I’m vegetarian – during the day I take foods that fit with my diet and a healthy lifestyle: fruits, nuts, rice cakes, etc.
What do you like most about run commuting?
It makes me feel better about my health. I’m living a healthy lifestyle and at the same time inspiring others to do the same by my example. And at the same time, I know I’m contributing in a positive way to the environment.
Do you know of anyone else in your area that runs to work?
I see a lot of people in the streets in Sydney running to work. But it’s still growing! A lot of people get surprised at work when they realize that I have run or cycled to work, and they ask a lot of questions. People get really interested to know more, and it has inspired some people to get started.
When not run commuting, how do you get to work?
A lot of the time I cycle to work, to get there a little quicker. My last resort is to travel by bus.
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who was considering run commuting, what would it be?
If we really want something, we can do it. Excuses are just that – excuses. If you want to run commute, you just have to decide to do it, don’t think too much. You can do it and I am certain that you will feel all the benefits from it.
Anything else that you would like to include?
Encourage others to run commute, tell people what you are doing. If you want a concrete way in which to spread the idea, you can help other by volunteering with an organization like Corridaamiga, where you can support other people to run commute, just by sharing your experiences.
Are you interested in being featured on The New Run Commuters? If so, fill out the form below and we’ll send you more details.