For some runners, music is fuel.

An upbeat playlist kick-starts a good run; it sets the mood to go faster and stronger. Popular running songs are a mix of EDM (electronic dance music), hip-hop and pop. Others go for R&B, OPM or rock, with something slow and sexy for cooling down.

Recognizing how music inspires runners to push and beat their best, Unilever has been organizing the Rexona Run since 2010. This year, Rexona Run’s “Run to Your Beat” promises a fun party atmosphere complete with neon tunnels, mirror balls and lots of laser lights. It will be held on Oct. 26, at the Seaside Boulevard of SM Mall of Asia.

According to brand manager Mar Corazo, Rexona Run aims to give runners a “multisensory experience,” making it different from the usual races. Where there was one neon tunnel last year, this year there are three, and 21K runners get to go through all of them, while 5K and 10K runners go through two.

Rexona, a household deo brand for men and women, has partnered with Republiq club, so runners can expect great party music from top Manila DJs. Stationed in booths are Ace Ramos and Mars Miranda, as well as Deuce Manila, Martin Pulgar, Euric, Motherbasss and MC Pao.

Besides the elaborate setup, this year’s Rexona Run “is also bigger in terms of expectations,” said race organizer and running coach Rio de la Cruz.

Around 15,000 are expected to join, and since there will be loud music and neon lights at barely dawn, approval was sought from residents in surrounding areas prior to the race. Volume will also be controlled, De la Cruz said during the recent launch in Skye Lounge, BGC.

Longer distances

Over the years, runners have graduated from 5K and 10K into 21K, which has more slots this year. De la Cruz advised first-time 21K runners to train and prepare.

For this purpose, he is conducting free running clinics with coaches from 360 Club Fitness until Oct. 23 in SM by the Bay fountain area, Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 5 to 6 p.m. These are drills fit for beginner, intermediate and advance runners.

Joining fee for Rexona Run is P700 for 5K, P800 for 10K and P900 for 21K, inclusive of singlet, race bib, raffle stub, drinks and finisher’s shirt for 21K runners. Registration is ongoing until Oct. 19 at Toby’s SM Mall of Asia, SM North Edsa and Robinsons Galleria; and in Runnr, Bonifacio Global City. One may also register online at www.runrio.com.

Gunstart is at 3:45 a.m. for 5K, 3:30 a.m. for 10K and 3 a.m. for 21K.

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