Let this be your sign to revisit your 2024 health goals – and maybe check out those running shoes

Words Mika Geronimo
April 2, 2024

Doesn’t it feel like everyone you know is running this year? Well, you aren't alone. 

We've seen the gradual shift from yoga to pilates to walking pads. Only now, everyone on your algorithm seems to be craving a good old-fashioned run. Whether that's signing onto the next marathon or hitting a few laps around their neighborhood, running seems to have become the latest hot girl exercise trend. And Rain Matienzo can’t get enough.

We asked the internet star and television actress just what all the fuss is about. Read through for Rain’s testimony and maybe, just maybe, be convinced to finally pick up running as your resolution of choice this 2024.

Running with Rain 

Rain’s journey didn’t begin as consistently as you may think. 

From capping every gym session at 2km to making marathon plans that didn’t pushed through, the ride truly began during the latter part of 2023. She bought herself actual running shoes and was fascinated by how she was able run with ease. From a 2km, Rain began hitting 5km on the treadmill come the holiday season. 

Just in time for the new year, Rain built on her progress as soon as she landed in Australia by late January. Running thrice a week, she went from landing 5k’s to slowly but surely overcoming her personal bests. 

The joys of becoming a beginner 

From filming comedy skits to documenting life as a television talent, Rain has since added health and wellness to her arsenal of content. Recently, she’s been posting running vlogs on her TikTok and on her newest running account on Instagram, much to the delight of her following. 

“I love that I just get to become a beginner again and rediscover. It’s kind of like me stepping into the content creation platform again,” she said.

Rain shares that it’s been an overwhelming yet fulfilling journey, being able to receive and also give encouragement to her online community: “We all get to do this thing together, discovering running together and it’s just been great.”

Rain’s essentials for beginners

For Rain, it all starts with investing on a good pair of running shoes. Initially thinking that running shoes were just a fad, she later realized that the right pair actually aids in enduring longer distances and even running faster. 

While there are pricey choices out there, there are definitely more affordable, quality picks to choose from. With that, she suggests taking advantage of the plethora of running content online to wade through your shoe options. Though regardless, it’s always safe to try these shoes in-store, so as to avoid discomfort or injuries.

Rain also warns that running could quickly become a “black hole” disguised as retail therapy, like itching to buy extra outfits or even specialized watches. She reminds beginners that these are “nice-to-have’s,” but not crucial. 

An all-around fitness app is also an accessible means to complement your progress. Rain personally uses Strava for its statistics, maps, and other useful features.

The benefits of running

Happy hormones aside, Rain’s mental health has greatly  benefitted from getting lost in her thoughts while running. Instead of merely sitting at home, she’s able to clear her mind, all without noticing just how far she’s gone, both mentally and physically.

“It’s [also] just a matter of finding what movement works for you,” she said, sharing that she’s also tried tennis and weight-training prior to falling in love with running. 

She believes that exercise shouldn’t solely rely on what will make your body look good. It should also consist of something you genuinely enjoy and can build a routine around.

Rain recommends running to everyone, regardless of their lifestyle. Even if you dislike cardio, there’s nothing to lose just by trying it out: “More than the physical benefits of it, I think you being able to beat personal records – it’s also a mental reward for you.”