Running - Lin Wen-Lin: Shaping Health Through Running and Realizing Self-Transcendence with Green Air Running Station
Image Source: Provided by Lin Wen-Lin
In the hustle and bustle of urban life, as health awareness grows, running has attracted many participants. Running is not just a way to strengthen the body but also a pursuit of mental well-being and self-challenge. Lin Wen-Lin is one of the representatives of this mindset. Through running, he successfully improved his health and even founded the "Green Air Running Station," a store dedicated to serving runners, turning his passion into a commitment and belief in life.
In July this year, Lin Wen-Lin founded the 'Green Air Running Station' near Taiyuan Train Station in Beitun District, Taichung City. Image Source: Lin Wen-Lin
URL In July this year, Lin Wen-Lin founded the 'Green Air Running Station' near Taiyuan Train Station in Beitun District, Taichung City. Image Source: Lin Wen-Lin
"Green Air Running Station" offers services such as storage, shower facilities, relaxation, stretching, training, and consultation for runners. Reflecting on the founding of the store, Lin Wen-Lin recalled how he contemplated his career plans while training on the Green Air Corridor. Realizing the challenge of combining his passion for running with his profession, he had an idea: "Why not open a store dedicated to serving runners?" With its convenient location in the heart of Taichung, the Green Air Corridor is a popular spot for runners. Inspired by Japan's Imperial Palace running stores and Taiwan's first running station, "Forest Running Station," Lin established the Green Air Running Station in Taichung.
Lin Wen-Lin lost weight through running and a healthy diet. Image Source: Lin Wen-Lin
Initially, Lin Wen-Lin started running just to lose weight. However, this journey extended over 11 years. Not only did he successfully reach a healthy weight, but he also became a certified coach and referee for the Chinese Taipei Athletics Association, specializing in marathon and ultramarathon training. Recalling his weight loss determination, he said, "I told myself in the mirror: if I don't lose weight now, this image will follow me for the rest of my life." With this thought, he began running and paired it with good sleep and dietary habits to successfully lose weight.
Lin Wen-Lin has completed 72 full marathons and 13 ultramarathons. Image Source: Lin Wen-Lin
Lin Wen-Lin's running journey is filled with challenges and breakthroughs, extending beyond daily training. Among the many races he participated in, one race stands out—the 2016 Zhuxi Fort Ultramarathon, which tested his endurance and willpower. "Every race is a valuable experience, but this one was unforgettable because of the record-breaking cold wave in Taiwan," he said. On race day, participants started in temperatures below freezing, with snow falling in mountainous areas above 400 meters. "My ankles were almost numb, and it felt like I was running with my ankles rather than my feet," Lin recalled.
Ultimately, Lin Wen-Lin successfully completed the 100-kilometer race. Reflecting on his perseverance, he said, "This race taught me that even seemingly impossible challenges can be overcome, and life’s setbacks can be conquered." To date, he has completed 72 full marathons and 13 ultramarathons.
Beyond racing, Lin Wen-Lin shared his daily training preparation. "Disciplined runners follow their schedules, regardless of the weather. Wet running shoes can make running very uncomfortable in cold weather, so I regularly use water-repellent sprays," he explained. "I apply a protective layer to new shoes and reapply every 1-2 months to reduce slippage and prevent blisters or sores."
Lin Wen-Lin uses the waterproof spray "Nikwax" to protect his shoes. Image Source: Lin Wen-Lin
Speaking about waterproof spray selection, Lin said, "I've tried many brands. While they worked, the effects were short-lived, usually lasting less than two months. Many products are also harmful to people and the environment." Recently, he started using the waterproof spray "Nikwax," which is non-toxic, long-lasting for six months, and environmentally friendly. "It feels like applying a nano-coating to the shoes. Even if it rains during an evening run, my feet stay dry, making the run much more comfortable," he added.
The BtNPN Plant-Based Nano Patch offers excellent soothing effects. Image Source: Leadtek Technology
Long-distance running often leads to fatigue and muscle soreness. For marathon and ultramarathon runners, recovery is especially critical. Lin shared his recovery techniques: "After each run, I spend at least 20 minutes stretching deeply and use foam rollers for muscle relaxation." Recently, he started using the BtNPN Plant-Based Nano Patch. "I apply it to the most fatigued muscle groups after high-intensity training, and the soreness significantly decreases," he said.
Discussing the differences between BtNPN and other patches, Lin said, "It doesn’t have the strong smell of traditional patches and is gentler while still being effective. Recovery speed has significantly improved."
Running has become an essential part of Lin Wen-Lin's life. Image Source: Lin Wen-Lin
Running has become an irreplaceable part of Lin Wen-Lin's life. Looking ahead, he plans to participate in more ultramarathons and expand the services of "Green Air Running Station" to help more runners achieve their health goals. "I hope every runner can stay true to their original intent, allowing inner resilience to drive physical breakthroughs and achieve true self-transcendence," he said.
Lin Wen-Lin with Kipchoge. Image Source: Provided by Lin Wen-Lin
Lin Wen-Lin's Running Achievements:
5000m / 18:41
10K / 38:09
21K / 1:22:11
42K / 03:05:43
50K / 04:36:40
100K / 11:39:52
Running Experience:
2017 NRC Fast42 Participant
2018 NB Taipei Women's Half Marathon Pacer
2019 Sun Moon Lake Marathon 42K Pacer
2020 Taipei Marathon 42K Pacer