Singapore runners have adapted to severe air pollution by shifting their training routines indoors amid a haze crisis caused by wildfires in neighboring Indonesia. Smoke from forest and peatland fires in Borneo and Sumatra has significantly deteriorated air quality in the city-state, reaching its worst levels in over a decade in recent weeks and forcing the cancellation of many outdoor activities.

In response, fitness enthusiasts, including those preparing for international marathons, have turned to air-conditioned shopping malls as alternative training venues. Running clubs have organized group runs inside malls, subject to strict guidelines to maintain safety and respect for the public space. Rules prohibit sprinting, overtaking, shouting, spitting, and wiping sweat on the floor to ensure cleanliness and order during the sessions, according to Eugene Beh, 52, founder of the Singapore Runners Club.

Beh noted that ongoing haze conditions have compelled the cancellation of several outdoor runs. Many runners view the indoor runs as a necessary compromise. Angeline Zeng, 57, a banking professional preparing for a half-marathon in Taipei and a full marathon in December, completed 10 loops at a mall circuit totaling approximately 10 kilometers. While she appreciates the cool, air-conditioned environment, which contrasts with Singapore’s usual humidity, Zeng found the repetitive indoor setting “boring” for longer distances.

Other runners shared mixed feelings about the indoor arrangement. Doris Tan, 42, initially skeptical about indoor running due to fears of suffocation, found the air conditioning more comfortable than expected but still preferred outdoor runs. Paul Wong, 54, a retiree and member of the X-Run club, completed 21 loops totaling around 21 kilometers inside the mall. Preparing for the approaching Singapore International Marathon, Wong has been running nearly 100 kilometers per week on treadmills and described the experience as mentally taxing.

Eddie Chang, lead coach for X-Run, highlighted the challenges of transitioning training indoors, including securing mall approval and adapting to spatial constraints such as walkway width and corners. The runs are scheduled early in the morning before shops open to minimize disruption. Chang emphasized that high humidity, combined with hazardous haze levels, has made outdoor running particularly difficult, making the indoor mall runs a safer alternative to maintain rigorous training schedules.

This adaptation showcases the resilience and resourcefulness of Singapore’s running community as they navigate ongoing environmental challenges while preparing for upcoming athletic events.