Gangdong-gu in Seoul, led by District Mayor Lee Su-hee, has used its three-month "Slow Jogging Joint-Strengthening Exercise Class" to help residents build the habit of exercising on their own in daily life.
The project went beyond a simple exercise program, helping residents assess their own fitness and health, find workout methods suited to their individual needs, and consistently maintain those habits as part of everyday life.
The district placed particular emphasis not only on forming personal exercise routines through slow jogging but also on building a health-oriented community through interaction among residents.
Slow jogging is an aerobic exercise performed at a slower pace than regular jogging. It reduces stress on the joints while improving cardiovascular function and overall fitness. Because it requires no special equipment or high-intensity training, it is gaining attention as an accessible, everyday workout suitable for people of all ages.
The Gangdong-gu Health Center ran the program in partnership with the Gangdong Physical Fitness Certification Center, conducting fitness assessments for all participants. Residents could objectively gauge their baseline fitness and physical condition, then set exercise goals appropriate to their health level. The program also let participants observe physical changes before and after exercise, helping them appreciate the value of keeping up a regular routine.
After the formal program ended, the district organized slow jogging crews centered on local parks — including Cheonho Park and Iljasan Herb Astronomy Park — so participants could continue practicing the slow jogging techniques they had learned.
The slow jogging crews were designed so residents would not stop exercising once the scheduled program concluded, but instead gather voluntarily at nearby parks to walk and run together and sustain their healthy habits. The crews are currently active, driven by residents' voluntary participation and mutual encouragement, and are contributing to the spread of a health-friendly culture in the community beyond individual exercise.
"I hope slow jogging gives residents an easy, low-pressure way to get moving and regain their vitality," District Mayor Lee said. "We will continue expanding tailored health programs so residents can exercise together in nearby parks and everyday spaces, building a healthier daily life."
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