Morning Runs: A Healthy Lifestyle Boosting Sports Tourism in Kudus

KUDUS – Dawn had barely broken when the pulse of life began to stir across various corners of Kudus Regency. Uncrowded streets became paths for brisk steps moving at different rhythms. Some runners enjoyed the crisp morning air in solitude, others arrived as families, and some gathered in groups before setting out on their respective routes.

In Kudus, morning jogging has gradually evolved into a staple of the local lifestyle. This activity is no longer merely about physical fitness but serves as a way to experience the city at a slower pace. With every step, runners witness different facets of Kudus, from the quiet streets and sun-drenched trees to the residents slowly beginning their day.

This atmosphere was evident on Sunday morning, July 19, 2026. Long before the sun was high, three main public spaces were filled with residents taking advantage of the weekend to exercise. Simpang Tujuh Square became a hub for all walks of life. Children played, families took leisure walks, and running communities prepared for their routes as local vendors set up stalls to welcome residents finishing their activities.

Not far from the city center, the GOR Wergu Wetan and Balai Jagong areas offered a distinct ambiance. Sports tracks became destinations for those seeking to run at a more consistent pace or simply enjoy a stroll with their families. Meanwhile, Oasis Djarum Park provided a different experience, where lush trees and shaded park grounds offered a tranquil environment for exercise.

This growing trend has been observed firsthand by Petrus Naraliawan, a dedicated runner who trains across various parts of Kudus. As a member of the Kudus Runners community, Petrus frequently rotates his locations to keep his training engaging. His routes vary from Simpang Tujuh Square and Balai Jagong to Oasis Djarum Park and the Jati Wetan Retention Basin near his home.

He is active in two groups simultaneously: Kudus Runners and Sunday Social Running (SSR). Each group has its own unique character and agenda. Kudus Runners is known for its Lajunda (Lari Jumat Ndalu) or Friday Night Run, a recurring weekly event. The community also holds regular Sunday morning sessions, while SSR hosts casual runs covering approximately five kilometers (5K). Activities rotate between locations like Simpang Tujuh Square and Oasis Djarum Park, allowing participants to experience the diverse running routes available in the "Kretek City."

All activities are open to the public and free of charge. Both novice and experienced runners can join immediately without any selection process or community-specific attire. Participants simply need to arrive at the meeting point announced on the community's social media platforms, with gatherings typically starting between 05:30–05:45 WIB. The run commences around 06:00 WIB and generally concludes between 07:30–08:00 WIB. This schedule was selected to allow participants to enjoy the cool morning air and complete their activity before city traffic builds up.

According to Petrus, the rising interest in running is driven significantly by social media influence and the phenomenon of fear of missing out (FOMO). Many initially try running after seeing posts from friends or invitations from communities. However, after experiencing the benefits, many end up adopting the sport as a permanent part of their lifestyle.

"Morning running is becoming more popular, in my view, because of FOMO—people following trends. Running with a community has a positive effect because you can do it together. Running makes you healthy. Usually, we gather here and run around the area. The benefit is definitely for health," said Petrus.

For Petrus, joining a community is not just about logging miles. Running also provides a space to build new friendships. It is not uncommon for him to bump into old friends by chance at public running spots; a brief greeting on the track often turns into a conversation that makes the morning feel more inviting.

"The benefit of joining a community is finding friends with shared interests. If the chemistry is right, you can share a laugh. I think the best time to run is in the morning because there is less pollution, the air is cool, and the streets are not yet crowded, which makes running along the roadside more comfortable," he added.

The camaraderie among runners continues even after the route is completed. Following their run, groups typically conclude with a cooldown session, take group photos, and then head out to enjoy local Kudus culinary delights. Lentog Tanjung in the Tanjung Karang area is a favorite destination, along with Soto Kudus and water buffalo satay around the Simpang Tujuh Town Square. This simple tradition ensures that morning runs are not just a space for maintaining fitness and strengthening bonds, but also help boost local food businesses along the running routes.

Although they share a common post-run habit, every runner enjoys their mornings in Kudus in their own way. Some prefer the hustle and bustle of groups to meet people, while others prefer times when public spaces are quieter to run at a more comfortable, personal pace.

Rayyan Ardiansyah, for instance, prefers to exercise on weekdays before public spaces become crowded. As a professional, he uses his days off to maintain his fitness; however, the heavy weekend crowds often restrict the running space available.

On the same track, runners must share space with families out for a stroll, children playing, and residents enjoying the morning atmosphere. These conditions make it difficult to maintain a consistent running pace.

“I go for a run whenever I have time off work. It is less ideal on holidays like this because of the many visitors. I advise friends who exercise here to come on weekdays; it is quieter and more enjoyable for a morning workout,” he said at Balai Jagong.

Despite having to adapt to the crowded conditions, Rayyan remains committed to his exercise routine. For him, duration is secondary, provided the body remains active.

“I usually run for at least 10 to 15 minutes.”

A similar sentiment was shared by Diah Arum, a resident of Karangbeber, Bae District. She prefers Oasis Djarum Park for her runs due to its shaded and comfortable environment.

After completing a run of about three kilometers, Diah usually continues her morning with the group exercise classes held in the park. For her, the weekend is a time to enjoy several physical activities in one place.

Diah said she began running regularly about a year ago. She does not focus on specific distances or speeds, but rather on maintaining a consistent habit of staying active.

“I just finished a three-kilometer run around Oasis and joined the exercise group. I am still a beginner, but I have stayed consistent for about a year now, even if it is just for short periods. One thing is for sure, morning runs are refreshing because the air is so cool.”

The appeal of the running paths in Kudus extends well beyond the local community. Hendi Prasetya, a runner from Nalumsari, Jepara Regency, makes the trip to Kudus almost every Sunday just to enjoy the jogging atmosphere in the City of Kretek.

For him, the city center and Oasis Djarum Park offer comfortable public spaces for exercise. Beyond the pleasant paths, he enjoys how the surrounding areas remain vibrant even after his run is complete.

“I choose to run here because it is a great spot. After running, there are plenty of food vendors. It is perfect for jogging,” Hendi said.

This simple habit provides a more rewarding experience. After working up a sweat, runners can enjoy a variety of culinary options available around the sports area. For Hendi, the reason for opting for a morning run is also simple: the fresh air helps him feel energized and better prepared to go about his daily activities.

These stories illustrate that everyone has a unique motivation for running. Some seek improved health, others look for social connections, some enjoy the urban atmosphere, and some travel from outside the area for a different experience.

What they share is a public space that brings everyone together without barriers. These running paths are more than just places to exercise; they serve as social hubs that integrate people of all ages, professions, and backgrounds toward a common goal: starting the day with a fitter body.

This trend also demonstrates how public spaces can provide benefits that transcend their primary functions. When residents feel comfortable engaging in activities, it sparks peripheral growth—from the emergence of new communities to increased family outings and a thriving local culinary sector around sports areas.

Given the community enthusiasm and the presence of runners from out of town, the running tracks in Kudus also offer significant potential for the development of sports tourism. Well-maintained public spaces, comfortable pedestrian paths, and continuously improved facilities will continue to strengthen this appeal.

Ultimately, a morning run in Kudus is about more than just tracking kilometers or chasing personal bests. Each step embodies a story of healthy habits, a venue for human connection, and a way to experience the city on a more intimate level. From a morning spent on the track emerges an experience that allows Kudus to be not only seen but felt, one stride at a time. (JMY/mainkekudus)