We all know that running is a healthy pursuit – it’s something we proudly shout about whenever we can. Yet not only is it good for our bodies (yes, even the knees), thanks to ‘plogging’, the eco-friendly running trend fresh out of Scandinavia, it’s proving to be good for the planet too.
If you type plogging into Instagram, you'll see more than 60,000 photos of runners all over the planet taking part, but what is plogging and how can you join in?
What is plogging?
In Sweden, environmentally conscious runners have taken to collecting plastic litter during their runs. The aerobically taxing and rubbish-collecting activity has been named “plogging” – a portmanteau of “jogging” and “plucking”.
Founded by Erik Ahlström, Stockholm-based group Plogga aims to use the city’s runners as a force for good. His team of ploggers pull on their disposable gloves, grab a bin bag, and scan the streets for litter along their route. Once the bag is full, it’s deposited in an appropriate recycle bin, cutting down on the amount of plastic making its way to the ocean.
How can you get involved, or arrange your own plog?
To find group plogging events near you, take a look at the Twitter account PloggingUK.
Alternatively, to arrange your own plogging challenge, simply get a group of runners together, get some bin bags and protective gloves and set out on a run, picking up rubbish as you go.
Finally, if the altruistic angle isn’t enough to make you consider grabbing a bin bag before your next run, just think about the core work you’ll sneak in bending down again and again to grab that stray plastic bottle.
