Virtual Fitness PH

VJ Matias: The Humanitarian Filmmaker Who Found Strength in Running

VJ Matias, hailing from Santiago City in the province of Isabela, is a testament to the transformative power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. With a background in Business Administration from UP Diliman, VJ has carved a niche for himself as a humanitarian filmmaker, using his craft to inspire and bring people together for a common cause. However, his journey into running reveals an equally compelling story of personal growth and resilience.

The Path to Running

VJ’s foray into running was not a straightforward one. “I’ve always been self-aware that I’m a person with a fragile self-esteem,” he admits. This self-awareness initially kept him from imagining himself engaging in physically demanding activities. Yet, his work in humanitarian efforts continually fueled his passion for inspiring others, and this drive eventually led him to explore his own limits.

His first venture outside the comfort zone was through freediving. This experience taught him the profound lesson that extraordinary achievements begin with the belief in one’s own potential. “If you just step out of your comfort zone, you can do amazing things you never thought you could,” VJ reflects. This newfound self-belief and confidence naturally paved the way for further self-improvement. Recognizing that his journey could resonate with many, he wanted to inspire others to realize their potential too.

Why Running?

Unlike freediving, running is accessible to a vast number of people. VJ recognized this and saw running as a means to boost confidence, improve physical and mental health, and ultimately bring happiness. “I started running because, unlike freediving, it’s more accessible to a lot of people,” he explains. Running became a way for him to continue his mission of inspiring others, showing that if someone like him could achieve these milestones, others could too.

Recent Race Results

• Asics RnR 2023: 42k – 5:17:25
• 7-11 2024: 21k – 2:03:08
• Milo Manila 2024: 21k – 1:49:51
• HOKA TRA Manila 2024 Leg 1: 16k – 1:20:40
• PF Sub 1 2024: 10k – 49:06

Motivation and Inspiration

VJ’s motivation stems from the feedback and encouragement he receives from his small but growing following. “I’m always motivated when people, whether in my circles or via social media, come to me and say they’re inspired by my fitness journey,” he shares. This support fuels his passion and drives him to keep pushing forward. His mantra, “One foot in front of the other, celebrate small victories, and always be proud of yourself,” encapsulates his approach to running and life.

Overcoming Hardships

The journey has not been without its challenges. Self-doubt is a constant companion, especially during tough and exhausting runs. “I always wonder if I’m not good enough,” VJ confesses. These moments of doubt can be crippling, but VJ has found ways to overcome them. Central to his resilience is the support system he has in his family and his team. “Self-belief is important, but other people believing in you also goes a long way,” he acknowledges. This external support, coupled with his inner resolve, helps him push through the difficult times.

The Bigger Picture

For VJ, running is more than just a physical activity; it is a metaphor for life’s journey. Each step, each mile represents a victory over self-doubt and a testament to human potential. His experiences in running parallel his work in humanitarian filmmaking, where the goal is to bring people together, inspire action, and foster positive change.

Through running, VJ Matias continues to inspire those around him, demonstrating that with belief, perseverance, and support, anyone can achieve remarkable things. His story is a reminder that extraordinary accomplishments start with a single step, and that the journey itself is as important as the destination.

VJ’s evolution from a person with fragile self-esteem to a confident runner and filmmaker is a powerful narrative of personal transformation. It underscores the importance of self-belief, the value of stepping out of comfort zones, and the incredible impact that a supportive community can have. As VJ continues to run and share his journey, he remains a beacon of inspiration, proving that no matter the starting point, one can always strive for and achieve greatness.