The sound of footsteps echoed along the streets as the sun rose on another weekend morning. With steady breaths, more and more officials and public figures are choosing to start their weekends with a run.

Among them is Aviliani, a senior economist who, at 64, has transformed running from a pastime into a defining part of her lifestyle. Over the past few years, she has completed countless marathons, both at home and abroad.

In an interview with the SUAR team, Bu Avi, as she likes to be called, admitted that her daily routine used to be dominated by a hectic schedule of meetings, presentations, and attending various economic forums.

Exercise, she said, was something she only did when she had the chance. But that changed when she entered the world of running. “Now, if I don’t run, my body actually feels uncomfortable,” she said, chuckling lightly over the phone recently.

Her running journey began during the pandemic, initially just to pass the time. When activities were restricted, she started exercising regularly by taking leisurely morning walks.

“At first, I was already out of breath after walking just 100 meters. But over time, I was able to run long distances,” said Avi, who once served as the president commissioner of a prominent bank.

This activity has now grown into a commitment included in her work calendar, considered as important as major meetings.

“Running feels really good, you know,” she said.

Her hobby quickly grew into a commitment that she now treats as seriously as her professional responsibilities. Since then, she has joined dozens of running events across Indonesia and overseas, collecting 52 medals in a single year, a sign she was almost always at the starting line on weekends. From Jakarta’s Car Free Day to Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, and even Chicago’s famed marathon route, Aviliani has proven she can run 42 kilometers with stamina and determination.

Trail run

Aviliani also always makes room for trail running in her schedule. In a year, she can join two to three cross-country races in various regions—such as Siksorogo near Solok, the downhill route to Telaga Sunyi in Baturaden, and the mountainous areas of Sentul.

“Trail runs are more exciting. The scenery is beautiful, the air is fresh. Running downhill also feels different,” Aviliani said.

Trail running gives her a sensation that contrasts with city marathons. Uphill trails don’t demand speed, while the views and fresh air are rewards with every step.

She has also run in Tahura, Bandung, breathing in the thin mountain air, and crossed Kawaratu with its distinctive sulfur scent.

“If the scenery is beautiful, it’s a shame not to capture it,” she said, adding that she sometimes uploads these moments on social media—both as a keepsake and an invitation for others to try.

Since January, she has mapped out a race calendar with her group. Race tickets in major cities are bought well in advance, often along with accommodation bookings. The trip to a race becomes a social experience—from carb-loading sessions the night before to sharing stories post-finish at a nearby café.

For Aviliani, all of this is part of the marathon package that keeps her eager to run. The habit has built her confidence, and she feels fit at 64—more energetic than before she started running.

“For her, this sport is not just a physical activity but a way to maintain health, a clear mind, and the spirit of life. It has now become a lifestyle. On Saturdays and Sundays, it’s always a run or a trail—there’s no idle time,” Avi said.

Retno Marsudi’s leisurely jog

She is not alone. Retno Marsudi, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, is another high-profile runner who makes exercise a non-negotiable priority.

Despite her demanding career and now her role as an independent commissioner of PT Vale Indonesia Tbk, Retno always finds time to run, whether in Jakarta or while stationed abroad.

In several posts on her Instagram account, Retno often shows herself jogging in between work commitments that demand high readiness.

Even when her schedule is packed, she still manages to find time to run. For example, when she was stationed in the United States, because meetings often started very early, she would choose to run before sunrise.

“There’s no other option—right after dawn prayers, I go jogging,” said Retno, who now serves as Independent Commissioner of PT Vale Indonesia Tbk.

Exercise is non-negotiable for her, even in less-than-ideal weather. She once pushed through the rain just to jog. “Exercise must go on, but of course, you have to wear a poncho,” she recalled.

These individuals are examples of seasoned professionals who, despite their age, remain disciplined in prioritizing exercise.

Long-term investment

Aviliani sees running as a long-term investment in health and happiness.

“At this age, we have to stay active. Many people stop moving and end up getting sick quickly,” she said.

She does not aim for records or podium finishes. Every step is a form of resistance against the body’s natural decline. Running gives her space to breathe more deeply, think more clearly, and feel connected with people who share the same passion.

That experience has often made her an inspiration to much younger runners. On the track, she often passes participants in their 30s who give up before the finish line.

“It feels good to be able to motivate people. Age is not an excuse. If you have a goal and discipline, you can achieve anything,” she said.

“It feels good to be able to motivate people. Age is not an excuse. If you have a goal and discipline, anything can be achieved,” she said.

The trend of busy people continuing to exercise reflects a shift in awareness about the importance of health amid hectic schedules.

People are starting to find ways to insert physical activity into their packed routines—whether through light exercise at the office, using break time to move, or working out in the morning before starting their day.

Experiences from joining running races in various cities and natural landscapes also teach simple yet valuable lessons: to appreciate one’s own body, enjoy the process, and accept that every finish line is the beginning of the next journey.