The streets of Alexandra, a community where public health struggles often collide with economic hardship, became a new gym on October 25.
Residents, both experienced and first-time runners, hit the pavement, taking on the breakfast fun run, a 5km fitness lap presented by IrunWithThemba, in partnership with Siga Culinary. Far from being just another weekend jog, the fun run was a movement that challenged the norms of health, access, and social cohesion in Alexandra.

Read more: From the couch to the streets, Alex residents hit the ground running

Organiser Themba Bila said the event was meant to move people from the couch to the streets. His approach to doing so was simply: To create a free and inclusive running event that lowers the barriers to entry for physical activity in the community. “People are sitting at home, doing nothing. Some are battling high blood pressure and other illnesses. We want to move those people so they can come and enjoy.”

The 5km route, which included steep inclines and winding streets, was beginner-friendly, yet physically engaging. “It was a good journey. Obviously, when it started, it was a bit easy, but when you got to the steep hill you could feel that it is asking a lot of you,” one of the participants, Mcendisi Mbedzi, said.

For others participants, it was their first formal run, and a chance to reclaim their health… One kilometre at a time. “I believe everyone needs to be part of this,” another participant, Karabo Lekgoathi, shared. “It was my first time here, and what I saw is so beautiful.”

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Nokuthula Thomas shared the same sentiments. “What I loved the most was the mood. The excitement and unity on the road. It was beautiful.”

Beyond the physical challenge, the run served as a platform for social reconnection. “We want families to spend time together,” Bila explained. “We are saying to the community: ‘Let us stand together. We can do more together, than as individuals’.”

While some lauded the initiative for its focus on physical health, participant Zanothando Bowes shared the broader mental health benefits of the run. “Our environment closes channels for us. People get depressed and turn to substances. This keeps the energy positive.”

To ensure that the runners do not only participate once, and revert back to their inactive lifestyles, Bila said they introduced beginner runners to Alexandra’s growing network of local clubs, including Run Alex and Tsutsumani. He envisions a future where running becomes part of Alexandra’s cultural identity. “We do running and tourism. We teach people about where we grew up. We are sharing stories.”

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