Health · Fitness & Nutrition · 1 hr ago
Runners told not to cram in training missed during Singapore haze
The haze in Singapore disrupted runners’ training ahead of the Singapore International Marathon, scheduled for Dec 4 to 6.
Some runners switched to treadmills or other indoor workouts, while others changed routes to find clearer air.
Treadmills can help maintain fitness, but they do not fully match outdoor running in Singapore’s heat and humidity.
Runners returning outside may overheat sooner because their bodies have not been adapting to those conditions during indoor sessions.
Outdoor running also requires runners to manage their own pace and practise taking water while moving, unlike a treadmill workout.
Coach Nicole Low said not every missed workout needs to be made up, and runners are being advised not to rush to catch up.
Runners in Singapore are being advised not to cram in workouts missed during weeks of haze-disrupted training.
The warning comes as the Singapore International Marathon approaches and some runners look to add mileage now that skies are clear.
Experts say treadmill training can maintain cardiovascular fitness but cannot fully prepare runners for outdoor heat, humidity and race conditions.
Runners described adjusting routes, training indoors and changing their routines during the haze.
The marathon is scheduled for Dec 4 to 6.
- Who
- Singapore runners and long-distance running experts.
- What
- Experts say runners should not rush to make up missed training during the haze.
- When
- The article was published on Nov 10, 2026. The marathon is scheduled for Dec 4 to 6.
- Where
- Singapore.
- Why
- Weeks of haze disrupted training, but experts say indoor workouts do not fully replicate outdoor running conditions.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Weeks of training were disrupted, and runners adjusted routes and used indoor or alternative workouts.
A CNA photo showed haze shrouding Marina Bay Sands at midday.
CNA reported that runners were eager to make up missed training as skies cleared and experts advised against rushing.
The Singapore International Marathon is scheduled to take place.
- Race
- BYD Singapore International Marathon presented by Adidas
- Race dates
- Dec 4 to 6, 2026
- Training target
- Ceed Tan had aimed to run 60km a week
- Indoor training
- Treadmills can help maintain cardiovascular fitness but do not fully replicate outdoor conditions
- Haze conditions
- Ceed Tan adjusted routes based on air quality, including running more in the north
What people are saying
You won't lose a lot of fitness if …
Your heart rate doesn't rise as much. Your body temperature doesn't rise as much
If there's really no choice, I will force myself to run indoors like a hamster for two to three hours on the treadmill
If we are outside, we would actually have to practice grabbing our water while running. So in terms of mimicking real race conditions … that practice portion is definitely missing.