New York City’s streets are getting a major cleanup thanks to “plogging,” a new fitness trend that combines jogging with picking up trash. This eco-friendly movement is quickly becoming the hottest way for New Yorkers to get in shape while also making a positive impact on their city.
According to the NY Post, plogging, a term derived from the Swedish phrase “plocka upp” which means “pick up,” has been gaining traction globally, and it’s certainly found a vibrant home here. Instead of just hitting the pavement for a standard run, participants are now lacing up their sneakers, grabbing a bag and gloves, and actively cleaning up litter as they go. It’s truly a win-win situation for both the environment and your personal fitness goals.
The New York Road Runners (NYRR), a Manhattan-based nonprofit, has been instrumental in popularizing plogging. Tina Muir, a former elite marathoner and now a sustainability advocate for NYRR, shared her excitement for the activity. She loves being able to do “something actionable” and contribute positively to the city. Muir also pointed out that plogging offers a unique social dynamic in the running world, allowing groups of people to participate at the same speed.
Cleaning up while exercising – it doesn’t get any better than that!
NYRR first launched its plogging initiatives in 2019 as part of an Earth Day campaign, and it has since grown significantly. The organization even has a dedicated station at its Runcenter in Manhattan where anyone can pick up supplies and plog at their own pace…