If you’re bored with your usual running group, maybe you should consider a new trend: picking up trash while jogging with friends.
Running clubs are gaining traction as a way to exercise, meet new people, and even spark romantic relationships. Some New Yorkers have taken it a step further, not just pounding the pavement but making their surroundings cleaner as they go.
Plogging—combining jogging with the Swedish term “ploka upp,” which translates to “pick up”—is becoming increasingly popular among fitness lovers worldwide.
Tina Muir, a sustainability advocate, was introduced to plogging at an event she organized. She’s affiliated with the New York Road Runners (NYRR), a nonprofit that supports runners of all ages and abilities.
“At that moment, I felt really excited about doing something meaningful that contributed positively to my beloved city,” said Muir, a former elite marathon runner.
“Running alongside a group where everyone is synchronized in pace was truly unique in the running community,” she added.
NYRR Takes the Lead
After stepping back from her professional running career, Muir sought to align her passion for the environment with her role at NYRR.
Now, she serves as a sustainability advocate for the Plogging Events hosted by NYRR, which include the United Airlines NYC Half Marathon in March, the RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon in May, and the TCS New York City Marathon in November.
NYRR began its first plogging event in 2019 as part of an Earth Day initiative. They’ve set up stations in Manhattan’s Run Center where anyone can grab gloves and bags to plog at their own pace.
Participation spiked when NYRR decided to connect these events to major races, according to Allie Criscuolo, the organization’s director of sustainability and corporate social responsibility.
Marketed as a shakeout run, participants not only get a quick jog to loosen up but also tidy up the environment before the races.
“You can’t run fast and pick up trash at the same time. It’s physically impossible,” Muir emphasized.
It’s no surprise that marathons draw the most attention.
“With two million spectators, there’s a large audience learning about plogging and spreading the idea back home,” Criscuolo said. “Many are picking up trash during their morning runs, even if it’s not a formal event.”
Everyone is welcome to join the Progathon, regardless of their registration to run the race.
“We see a nice mix of race runners and those passionate about local sustainability,” Criscuolo noted, mentioning they’ve had as many as 100 participants recently.
Siblings in Environmental Efforts
While participants can only collect a limited amount of trash, the hope is that plogging will inspire action and raise awareness about environmental issues.
“We know we can’t solve the climate crisis by just picking up a few items,” Criscuolo admitted. “But educating people about plogging helps them take that initiative in their own neighborhoods.”
Muir believes these positive actions can spread.
“When people witness someone stepping up for their community and environment, they’re more likely to follow suit,” she said.
A Positive Approach
It might seem faster is always better when running, but there are advantages to taking it slow.
“Plogging usually keeps your heart rate lower than traditional jogging since you stop to clean up,” said running coach Jason Fitzgerald. “This could actually be good for keeping runners in a comfortable aerobic zone and burning more fat.”
That’s not all—Fitzgerald pointed out other benefits like managing weight, enhancing aerobic capacity, building bone density, and preventing issues like type 2 diabetes.
“Plogging provides a valuable form of aerobic exercise, and running is among the highest calorie-burning activities,” he added. “It’s a great way to burn calories while focusing on nutrition.”
Criscuolo mentioned that participants can also gain strength during these runs.
“You can bend down, do squats, or lunges while picking up debris. It’s also crucial to stretch afterwards,” she advised.
This new approach might feel a bit odd at first for seasoned runners.
“Initially, they may feel discomfort from bending over, but they report feeling better and moving more freely afterward,” Muir explained.
Forward Movement
A slower pace does require some strategic planning.
Fitzgerald recommends sticking to familiar distances, as the intermittent nature of plogging means you’ll be running longer overall.
“Thinking of plogging as its separate activity can help you avoid comparing your pace to traditional running,” he said.
Plogging brings not only physical advantages but also mental and emotional benefits.
Aerobic activity can alleviate symptoms of depression, often serving as effectively as medications or therapy.
“Cleaning up is a positive social act that brings a sense of achievement while helping the community,” Fitzgerald noted. “Plus, doing this in groups can alleviate feelings of isolation and foster a sense of belonging.”
Muir echoed this sentiment, pointing out that people are eager to feel connected.
“It’s a fantastic way to cultivate community and friendships, which many of us are actively seeking,” she said. “This added element of giving back truly makes it special.”
