Actor Toy Phongsakorn Promotes Running For Better Health

Beyond his entertainment career where actor Toy Phongsakorn dedicates himself to performing diverse roles, he also makes time for running—his favorite activity. He has balanced his work schedule with exercise and successfully completed multiple marathons. Toy previously played golf but shifted to running based on advice from industry professionals. Beyond personal health benefits, running has improved his work performance, including body maintenance and physical stamina for action scenes without fatigue.

Toy explains that people run for different reasons—some for health, others to challenge themselves through marathons. "Running for health means enjoying the activity, which leads to longer, more effective workouts. It's something I love and do for my own health. Running to challenge myself is like pushing my limits. Marathon running requires tremendous discipline, teaching many lessons about rest, sleep, nutrition, and training. Marathon training isn't just about race day; the preparation journey is equally important. Each marathon provided different perspectives—pressure, satisfaction, or sometimes wanting to quit due to limited training time because of back-to-back filming for seven days, making one actual race more difficult than previous ones."

As he entered the serious running world, Toy describes physical and mental changes in himself, with his family appreciating his discipline. He must sacrifice certain things—declining outings with friends to get home early and rest before early morning training sessions starting at 4:30 AM.

"Running mentally helps with focus, letting go, and building discipline. It requires sacrifices, like choosing not to party with friends to get proper rest before early morning training. That's trading something for something better. I suggest thinking about which path you choose—one that benefits your health or one that doesn't."

"Every foundation starts with walking. Begin with walking, then gradually shift to slow running with walking breaks. I believe this pace allows continuous, longer-term running. Many feel pressured to run fast like others or maintain low pace. For health running, monitor heart rate around 140-145 BPM—where you can still talk while running. This heart rate range helps your body burn fat as energy and improves health. Just 30 minutes daily provides health benefits."

By prioritizing a strong body, the results are improved health. The Ministry of Public Health also emphasizes comprehensive health care to encourage everyone toward better health and quality of life. "Good health means being with loved ones longer without burdening others. It just requires exercise. Many make excuses, postponing until tomorrow. If you don't start, your health suffers. The ministry continuously promotes exercise, explaining benefits and consequences of inactivity, encouraging Thais to prioritize health for better quality of life and longer time with loved ones—not just exercise, but comprehensive wellness."