Just a few years ago, I was constantly sick and weighed more than I should have. I knew something had to change—and what began as a personal goal to get healthier eventually led me to hiking, then running, and now, ultramarathons.
And now, I’ve taken my first official step as an ultramarathoner, thanks to the workplace wellness activities that helped me prepared for my marathon endeavors.
Chasing My Own Finish Line
In 2024, I set my sights on becoming a marathoner. I planned to join The Dream Marathon 2025, but while running my first half marathon in Nueva Ecija, I missed the registration. That setback broke my heart. But instead of giving up, I decided to create my own path.
In 2025, I committed fully to the journey:
- Ran a sub-1-hour 10K at the Pinoy Fitness Sundown Challenge
- Set a new 21K personal record at the Bulacan Half Marathon
- Finished my first full trail marathon at Ultra Ti’ Nueva Vizcaya
- Conquered the BCRC Trail Challenge, a race known for its elite difficulty
- Rediscovered my passion at the Calatagan Road to Trail Challenge, which combined my love for road and trail running
A Defining Moment
Running the Cabalen Ultra Marathon by Smoke10 Management was no easy feat. The 50KM distance was already daunting, and the steep uphill sections made it even tougher—with an elevation gain of 643 meters, based on my tracker (Coros Pace 3).
At one point, my legs felt unbearably heavy. I could only walk. I honestly wanted to give up. But then I remembered the people and running groups who supported me—those who believed in me, cheered for me, and followed my journey.
That reminded me I still had more to give. So, I kept going, gave everything I had, and finished strong.
That experience taught me something powerful: while my body can get exhausted, my heart and willpower remain unstoppable.
How John Clements Supported My Journey
At John Clements, wellness is not just a program—it’s a part of our culture. That culture helped fuel my transformation.
- Weekly yoga sessions with Ms. Diane Ngo improved my strength and flexibility. Routines like Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) and Chaturanga (Four-Limbed Staff Pose) developed my core, which is essential for endurance athletes. According to SELF Magazine, yoga improves strength, body awareness, and recovery for runners.
- Meditation sessions with Tully Moss sharpened my focus and helped me stay calm before races.
- Zumba classes boosted my cardiovascular fitness and aerobic endurance in a fun, energetic environment. Research published by Time Magazine shows that Zumba burns around 370 calories in 40 minutes and improves VO₂ max—an important metric for endurance athletes.
- Monthly fun runs at Ayala Triangle Gardens created the perfect platform to stay active and connect with colleagues. Since September 2024, we’ve met as early as 5:30 AM to complete three 1.2-kilometer loops—just enough to energize the day or shake out tired legs before big races. These runs inspired many coworkers to give running a try. Their energy inspired me, too.
This supportive environment didn’t just shape me into a better runner—it helped me become a more focused, resilient version of myself.
A Culture That Lifts People Higher
To our President and CEO, Ms. Carol Dominguez—thank you for championing our wellness initiatives. Your leadership has created a culture where employees feel empowered to grow, not only in their careers but in their lives outside work.
To my John Clements family—your encouragement and support have meant the world to me. Thank you for being part of this journey.
Looking Ahead
Now, I’m training for my first 60-kilometer ultramarathon—then a 75K, and who knows what’s next. With every step, I’m pushing my limits and discovering new possibilities.
If you’re just beginning your wellness journey, start with one step. It doesn’t have to be fast—it just must move you forward. You’ll be amazed at how far that first step can take you.
And if you’re looking for a workplace that supports your growth both on and off the clock, come join us at John Clements Consultants. We’re always on the lookout for enthusiastic, driven individuals ready to go the distance.
