“Soft discipline” reflects how clubs maintain order through voluntary participation. Instead of assigning roles or specific tasks, each member contributes to the group's activities at their own discretion.
At Da Nang Runners, this spirit is evident in every training session. No one is required to participate, but everyone considers being on time a responsibility. The club's fund, formed through voluntary contributions and managed transparently, fosters a sense of belonging.
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Da Nang Runners members on a weekend long run. Photo: Da Nang Runners |
Da Nang Runners members on a weekend long run. Photo: Da Nang Runners
“We don't need rigid assignments. Experienced runners readily support newcomers, and vice versa; this symbiotic relationship has been maintained for years,” said Thanh Vy, the club's president. He believes that their community thrives on trust and camaraderie.
A similar spirit of autonomy exists at Ha Long Runners, a group that has maintained a Sunday morning long run schedule for the past six years. “We don't impose rules. The important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and stays with the group for a long time,” said Tran Trong Dai, a club representative. Each week, he sends out a registration form to track attendance, motivating each member.
Thanks to this approach, the group doesn't need a fixed curriculum or a coach to encourage members to train. Everyone is encouraged to explore on their own, seeing it as a way to contribute to the community.
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Ha Long Runners members check in at the VnExpress Marathon Ha Long 2025. Photo: Ha Long Runners |
Ha Long Runners members check in at the VnExpress Marathon Ha Long 2025. Photo: Ha Long Runners
“Soft discipline” doesn't mean a lack of seriousness. On the contrary, this flexibility encourages each member to maintain their habits and stay committed to the group.
Thai Duong, a member of Hoa Binh Runners, shared that seeing his teammates on weekends is his biggest motivation. “Meeting the group on weekends is why I wake up at 4 a.m., knowing there's always someone waiting for me on the running route,” he said.
In running, as in life, what keeps people engaged is not always strict rules or performance pressure, but the feeling of being with others who share the same commitment and goals. This spirit is the secret that has helped many running clubs in Vietnam thrive for years and grow stronger.
Hai Long
VnExpress Marathon Da Nang 2025 takes place on the morning of 20/7, taking runners on a journey along the coastal roads and through the city center. The 42 km race starts at 2:30 a.m., the 21 km at 3:30 a.m., while the 5 km and 10 km races start at 5 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., respectively. The event is currently in its Late registration phase, from 26/6 to 3/7, with fees ranging from 850,000 to 1,550,000 Vietnamese dong depending on the distance.
See more news about the tournament here.
