Table of Contents Show
✨ AI Summary
Plogging, a Swedish-inspired fitness trend, revitalizes jogging by incorporating litter cleanup. This mindful activity transforms a routine run into a rewarding experience, benefiting both personal well-being and the environment. The author recounts their personal journey, initially feeling clumsy but discovering a newfound appreciation for their surroundings and a sense of accomplishment from collecting a surprising amount of trash. Plogging offers a unique blend of physical and mental benefits:
- A full-body workout incorporating squats and lunges.
- Increased mindfulness and a stronger connection with nature.
- A sense of purpose and contribution to the community.
The author recommends using apps like ExoTrails to find suitable locations and encourages readers to participate, emphasizing that even a small effort can make a significant impact. Starting plogging requires minimal equipment – just a reusable bag, gloves, and a positive attitude – and can be enjoyed solo or with others. It's more than a workout; it's a commitment to a cleaner, healthier environment and a more fulfilling personal experience.
Read the full summary...
Tired of the same old run? Discover plogging, the Swedish-inspired fitness trend that combines jogging with picking up litter. Learn how this simple act of service can transform your workout into a mindful experience, leaving both you and your environment feeling lighter and more refreshed.
- Big Joys, Small Escapes: Why a Micro-adventure is the Reset You Need
- Top 10 Vietnam Trekking Safety Rules for Smart Trail Adventures
- More Than a Walk: Exploring the Powerful Mental Benefits of Trekking
From routine runs to a mindful mission
There’s something deeply satisfying about lacing up your shoes, stepping outside, and letting your feet hit the pavement. For years, running has been my mental reset button—an hour to zone out, push hard, and sweat out the chaos. But last weekend, I tried something a little different: Plogging.
If you’ve never heard of it, plogging is a combination of “jogging” and the Swedish word “Plocka upp”, which means “to pick up.” As the name suggests, you go for a run—or even a brisk walk—and pick up litter along the way. It sounded simple, maybe even a little gimmicky. But something about it pulled me in. With overflowing bins and trails often peppered with waste, it felt like a small way to give back.
The unexpected joys and benefits of plogging
So, one Sunday morning, I grabbed a pair of gloves, a trash bag, and swapped my usual speed-focused mindset for something a little more mindful. The first few minutes were clunky. I’d jog a bit, stop to grab a bottle, jog again, crouch for a food wrapper. I probably looked ridiculous, bobbing up and down every hundred meters. But slowly, a rhythm formed. My eyes began scanning the trail differently. I wasn’t just passing through—I was participating in its care.
What surprised me most wasn’t how much trash I collected (though it was a lot). It was how much more present I felt. Instead of zoning out, I tuned in—really seeing the trail for the first time in ages. I noticed the quiet corners, the wildflowers, the forgotten creeks—and yes, the coffee cups and candy wrappers, too.
Plogging: a workout for your body and soul
By the time I finished, my trash bag was satisfyingly heavy, and my spirit even heavier—in a good way. Plogging had transformed a solitary run into a small, meaningful act of service. It was still a workout, sure. My legs burned, my heart pumped. But I felt lighter mentally, knowing I’d left the space better than I’d found it.
Now, I’ve started making it a regular habit. And here’s a little tip for anyone wanting to try it: the ExoTrails app has been a total game-changer. It’s packed with thousands of trail routes, parks, and outdoor spots near you. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or somewhere remote, it helps you find the perfect place to plot. Plus, it’s rewarding to explore new paths with a purpose—especially when you know you’re contributing to keeping them clean.
Your guide to getting started with plogging
You don’t need much to start plogging—just a reusable bag, some gloves, and a good attitude. You can go solo, bring a friend, or even get your local community involved. It won’t solve the global waste crisis overnight, but it’s a small, beautiful way to do your part.
So next time you head out for a run or a walk, consider giving plogging a try. You’ll move your body, clear your mind, and maybe—just maybe—make the world a little brighter, one step (and one wrapper) at a time.
Conclusion
In the end, plogging is more than an eco-friendly trend; it’s a mindset. It’s about transforming a personal pursuit into a community service, finding a deeper connection to the places we run, and realizing that a good workout can benefit more than just ourselves. It leaves both you and your environment feeling lighter and more refreshed.
Ready to start your own plogging adventure? Join our community of explorers in the ExoTrails Facebook Group and follow the ExoTrails Fanpage for daily inspiration!
FAQs
What is plogging and where did it come from?
Plogging is a fitness trend that combines jogging with picking up litter (plocka upp). It originated in Sweden around 2016 as a way to combine exercise with environmental responsibility.
What are the benefits of plogging?
The benefits are threefold: physical (a full-body workout), mental (increased mindfulness and a sense of accomplishment), and environmental (a cleaner community and natural spaces).
Is plogging a good workout?
Yes, plogging is an excellent workout because it adds functional movements like squatting, lunging, and bending to a traditional run, engaging more muscle groups.
How do I start plogging in my community?
You can start easily by yourself on your next walk or run. To involve others, invite a friend, or post on a local social media group to organize a small community plogging event.
What should I bring for plogging?
You should bring a sturdy, reusable trash bag, a pair of protective gloves, and wear comfortable running shoes and appropriate workout clothes.
