The first "Herbalife Nutrition Day Mini Marathon" held recently at the Chantana Yingyong Building, Chulalongkorn University Sports Center in downtown Bangkok, was a huge success. With over 1,000 participants, the fun-filled event was organized to encourage people of all ages to stay fit and active, and to ensure healthy aging.
The winners of the overall male category, Mr. Chaiwat Tiricharoensakun (46.45 mins) and female category, Ms. Dokmai Pathummala (57.12 mins) were presented with trophies graciously donated by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Moreover, runners were motivated by the presence of TV celebrity and health buff Diao Suriyon Arunwatthanakun, who was among the eager marathoners.
The participants, from seasoned runners and novice contestants to health enthusiasts, ran either 10 kms or 3 kms along familiar streets, landmark buildings and historical monuments such as Wat Hua Lamphong, Lumpini Park and historical Rajadamri Road.
Among the activities was a fitness session by Herbalife trainers who led a series of push-ups for post-marathon health evaluation. A health talk, "Add Proper Nutrition to Your Exercise Routine" was given by Ms. Vipada Sae-Lao, Manager, Nutrition and Regulatory Affairs & Product Compliance and Member of the Herbalife Dietitian Advisory Board (DAB), to help the health enthusiasts get the best result from their exercises.
The Mini-Marathon in Thailand was part of the Herbalife Nutrition Day, which was celebrated across 14 markets in the Asia-Pacific region. A variety of activities were conducted across the different countries to underline the importance of good nutrition and healthy active lifestyles for overall well-being. This year, Herbalife addressed issues pertaining to a fast-aging Thailand and Asia-Pacific population, with the aim of inculcating positive lifestyle habits for healthy aging.
According to data from the United Nations, one in four people in Asia and Asia Pacific is expected to be over 60 years old by 2050, and the number of people aged 60 and over is expected to triple to 1.3 billion between 2010 and 2050.
For Thailand, the country has become 'an aging society'. A Mahidol University research revealed that there are currently 9.93 million elders, accounting for 15 percent of Thailand's total population. The data from the UN estimated that by 2040, Thailand's aging population is expected to increase to 17 million, accounting for 25 percent of the population. This means that out of every four Thais, there will be one senior citizen.
Please visit www.herbalife.co.th for more information about the upcoming nutrition and fitness activities.