Outdoor exercise rules get thumbs up

Runners enjoy their regular run along the Gov. Froilan C. Tenorio Beach Road Pathway. (Marianas Visitors Authority)

Members of the sports community and those involved in health and recreational activities welcome the decision of the Governor’s COVID-19 Task Force allowing people to continue with their exercise routines outdoor despite the reimplementation of curfew hours in the CNMI.

Raymund Tolentino, who runs regularly along the Gov. Froilan C. Tenorio Beach Road Pathway, said the new directive on letting people utilize all public parks, public pathways, and public beaches for outdoor recreation for the purposes of exercise and wellness, both physical and mental, encourages them to stay active at this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Some of us stopped working, are under a lot of stress, and stayed at home most of the time. Allowing us to exercise keeps us sane and happy so we are very thankful for the CNMI government for allowing us to exercise in public areas,” said Tolentino, who recently completed the 100-mile run Go The Distance Challenge (virtual race).

Vernice Estepa, another finisher in the Go The Distance Challenge (300-mile bike), said biking is one of the best ways to do activities that observe social distancing.

“Cycling is a safe, socially distanced way of getting around. Ride solo or with your trusted small group,” said Estepa.

She added that at this time of the pandemic, CNMI residents are more fortunate than Guam’s as we still get a chance to exercise or do recreational activities to stay health and battle COVID-19.

“We are lucky to live in a place that is so conducive to biking and other physical activities. Exercising regularly and staying active during this pandemic improves both our physical and mental health. Nature and fresh air can help us relax and feel less stressed,” Estepa said.

Runners/walkers utilize the Oleai Sports Complex’s track oval for their nightly exercise. (Contributed Photo)

Guam was not as lucky as the CNMI, as recently Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, due to the spike in COVID-19 cases, signed Executive Order 2020-28, placing the former in lockdown (until Aug. 28) and limiting outdoor activities, including exercise and athletes’ training. Several athletes asked for clarification on the order, posting comments and suggestions on various social media platforms.

While the CNMI government is still letting public places open for health and wellness activities, Estepa and Tolentino, along with recreational runner Ladyvir Canape, encouraged people to be responsible and cooperative.

“We need exercise, especially nowadays, to boost our immune system, but walk or run responsively. If you can wear a mask while walking, that’s good. If not, just make sure you are at least 6 feet away from other runners/walkers,” said Canape, a regular at the Gov. Eloy H. Inos Peace Park.

“Avoid shaking hands and stopping to talk to friends you meet in the pathway,” Tolentino added. “And of course, wash your hands before and after you go out.”

Carline Sablan, executive director of the Northern Marianas Sports Association that manages the Oleai Sports Complex, sees a lot of community members using the track oval day and night and recognizes the importance of such activities and availability of facilities for residents.

“Being outdoors for physical activities is important so we can stay happy and healthy. Walking and running at the Oleai track and field while following social distancing guidance are great ways to support mental, emotional, and physical health, and minimize the spread of COVID-19,” Sablan said after finishing her rounds at the oval last night.