United in Endurance: A Military Couple's Journey Through Endurace Sports in South Korea
- Carlos Prieto and Karen Yau
- Jul 19, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 15
Exploring Endurance Sports in South Korea: A Military Couple’s Fitness Journey
In the bustling streets of South Korea, amidst the backdrop of a lively culture and rich history, lies a dynamic and thriving fitness scene waiting to be explored. South Korea's fitness landscape has been nothing short of exhilarating, filled with challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable experiences. Korean sports have taken an active part in the global arena over the past century, displaying Koreans’ fighting spirit even in harsh environments. South Korea hosts a variety of successful international competitions to create a sports-friendly environment that all people can enjoy. Together we embarked on a shared mission to discover these competitions and pursue our passions.
Sports and exercise have been integral to our lives and together. We even share the same passion for endurance sports in triathlons as well. Our journey into triathlons took a significant leap forward when we both moved to South Korea. Despite arriving as experienced in the world of triathlons, the vibrant sports culture in Korea was the catalyst for our continued growth, both personally as a couple and physically as endurance competitors. The transition to a new country came with its challenges and adjustments, but it also opened doors to new training opportunities and a community of fellow athletes who were just as passionate about pushing their limits. As we immersed ourselves in this new setting, we felt our abilities and enthusiasm for the sport flourish.
Competing in Korea
Our first competition was the middle distance triathlon events hosted by Challenge Family and Ironman 70.3. Middle-distance triathlons consist of a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike, and a 13.1-mile run. The Ironman 70.3 Goseong, South Korea competition was the first time we completed a relay event, which was such an amazing experience to share as a couple.
After competing in the South Korean triathlon events in 2022, our curiosity began to grow and we decided to explore the local Gran Fondo Events. Gran Fondos meaning “Big Rides” in Italian. These big rides are long-distance, mass-participation cycling events. As well as the Gran Fondos, we also participated in various cycling events that epitomize the freedom and joy of outdoor activities synonymous with cycling. These events aren't solely races but encompass group rides with the Camp Humphrey’s Cycling Club (CHCC), commencing early morning as a collective journey where decisions on meals and accommodations are made along the way. These rides span diverse distances ranging from 62 km to 130 km, with elevation gains spanning from 900ft to a staggering 9000 ft.
Experiencing Korea Through Cycling
Exploring South Korea through cycling has been an enriching journey for us, offering a unique perspective on the country's landscapes, culture, and people. From traversing the rugged terrain of the Taebaek Mountains to cruising along the picturesque coastal roads of Jeju Island, each cycling event has been a captivating adventure filled with unforgettable experiences. As we pedal through quaint villages steeped in history, pass by ancient temples nestled amidst lush greenery, and glide alongside cityscapes pulsating with life, we find ourselves surrounded by the beauty and diversity of Korea's scenery.
Beyond the physical exertion and adrenaline rush that cycling provides, we have discovered a deeper connection to the land and its people. We are forging bonds with fellow cyclists and locals alike. One aspect that stands out in our cycling journey is the sense of camaraderie and community spirit that permeates each event. Whether it's joining the group rides at the crack of dawn or banding together with fellow cyclists to conquer a challenging ascent, the shared experiences on the road have fostered lifelong friendships and created lasting memories.
Cycling, in essence, has become more than just a recreational activity—it's a gateway to forging connections, embracing new cultures, and embarking on adventures that transcend borders and boundaries.
South Korea's fitness community is not just thriving; it's an exhilarating, powerful force that draws enthusiasts from cycling to the adrenaline-packed realms of running and triathlons. Our journey through the fitness community here has been transformative, pushing us beyond our limits and deepening our connection with the country's rich customs, history, and diverse terrains. Participating in the Seoul Marathon, we've pounded the asphalt of the capital's busy streets, experiencing the city's spirit up close. This iconic race challenges participants with its notorious hills, setting the tone for the resilience required in endurance sports.
Resiliency Through Fitness
While the military lifestyle is inherently demanding, integrating a dedicated fitness regime offers more than just physical benefits—it’s a mental and emotional escape that fosters resilience. Engaging regularly in physical activities isn’t merely about staying in shape; it's about cultivating a mental fortitude that parallels the tactical skills and strategic thinking valued in military personnel.
The integration of fitness and endurance sports into both military life and the broader South Korean lifestyle aligns seamlessly with this cultural embrace of physical activities and outdoor life. This widespread enthusiasm for endurance sports offers a unique opportunity for military personnel stationed in Korea to engage with the local community through fitness. Participation in these events not only aids in the physical conditioning expected of military members but also exposes one to Korean practices and values, such as perseverance, community involvement, and the pursuit of personal excellence.
These values resonate deeply with military ethics and the ethos of endurance, making fitness activities and organized sports a natural bridge between military expatriates and local citizens.
Additionally, the regular scheduling of such events ensures that military personnel have continuous opportunities for physical engagement and cultural integration, enhancing their service experience while fostering positive relations with the Korean and international community. This ongoing involvement in Korean endurance sports can significantly enrich the lives of military members, offering them a fulfilling way to connect with their host country while maintaining the high levels of fitness required by their respected roles.
Pathway to Personal Growth and Adventure
As we continue our journey as a couple through South Korea's fitness scene, we look forward to new adventures, new challenges, and new opportunities to push our limits and explore the world around us. Our commitment to living life to the fullest is constantly reinforced by these activities, which not only challenge us physically but also provide profound mental and emotional rewards. With every mile cycled, every trail ran, and every swim, we push ourselves, uncovering new strengths and overcoming barriers that once seemed insurmountable.
The journey through South Korea’s fitness scene is more than just a series of physical activities—it’s a pathway to personal growth and adventure. It allows us to connect with like-minded individuals, each sharing the same zeal for health and exploration. As we look ahead, we are eager to continue this journey, embracing each new opportunity as a chance to grow, learn, and thrive. Through ongoing adventures, we are forging bonds and shared experiences leaving us with enduring friendships and unforgettable memories.
Useful Websites
Challenge Family
Gran Fond
Endurance Sports Wire
Korea By Bike
Running Races 2024 - 2025 in South Korea
Finishers: Races in South Korea
Ironman 70.3 Goseong
Seoul Marathon
Hell of the Marianas
Facebook Groups and Pages
Bike Club Humphreys: This page is dedicated to preparing abandoned bikes on Camp Humphreys. It then donates the bikes to the public. Follow them for more information on when their donation events happen. Bikes are sized for all riders, from children to adults.
Camp Humphreys Cycling and Multisport
Camp Humphreys Health, Fitness, and Runners Hub
Camp Humphreys Hike & Bike
Running Area IV
MTBSK - Mountain Bike South Korea
Korea Cycling Community
Trail Running Korea
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