Why More Moms Are Running with Their Kids at All Women’s Run Asia

On March 30, there was no better way to end the Women's Month than with a running event that's exclusive for women.

In its third year, the All Women's Run Asia 2025 gathered women from all walks of life to celebrate fitness and freedom. Organized by Women's Fitness Asia (WFA) in support of Voice of the Free (VF), thousands of women ran to champion the protection and empowerment of women and girls.

A run for the protection of women and girls

Justine Cordero-Em, a mom of two and founder of WFA, believes that the run has become one of the biggest platforms for creating a safe space where women can thrive.

In an interview with Smart Parenting, she shared that in the early years of AWR, they anticipated a lower turnout among runners because the event was initially exclusive to women. Approximately 2,000 runners participated in the inaugural event, falling short of their target of 10,000. However, that didn't stop them from organizing more runs because of the impact they saw on women.

"For many participants, this run was their first fitness event, opening them up to a new, supportive community. They discovered an encouraging space focused less on competition and more on personal growth and potential. I've seen many women realize they're stronger and more capable than they previously believed, surpassing their own expectations," Justine said.

"We're starting them young, not just in fitness, but in opening their eyes to inequality and teaching them to respect women." —Justine Cordero-Em

A special hallmark of the All Women’s Run is how mothers are encouraged to run with their children—whether Gen Z moms running alongside their Gen Alpha kids or Gen X mothers sharing the experience with their adolescent daughters.

"One of our most inspiring moments was awarding our most senior runner—she ran 21K at 60. Running and getting fit knows no age, and that's truly inspiring," Justine shares.

'More than just a race'

Among the participants was Shaira Moscosa, a 28-year-old mom of one who ran with her three-year-old daughter. She learned about the event through the Smart Parenting Village, a Facebook community.

For Shaira, it was more than just a race—it was a heartwarming moment that she will treasure forever. "Seeing her tiny feet hit the ground, her eyes filled with excitement, and hearing her giggles as we ran side by side reminded me that moments like these are what truly matter," she shared.

"I want my daughter to grow up in a world where she feels safe, respected, and empowered. It’s not just about raising awareness; it's about breaking cycles and creating real change." —Shaira Moscosa

Running became even more meaningful for Shaira because of the advocacy behind it. "As a mom, supporting campaigns against violence toward women and girls feels deeply personal. I want my daughter to grow up in a world where she feels safe, respected, and empowered. It's not just about raising awareness; it's about breaking cycles and creating real change. When we speak up and stand together, we show our kids what it means to protect and uplift one another. That's the kind of example I want to set."

Why mothers and daughters should join the next All Women's Run

Already looking forward to next year's event, Shaira encourages more mothers to join, even those who have never considered running. "You don't need to be a runner. You just need to show up and be present. Running with your child isn’t about the distance; it's about the connection, the encouragement, and the example you're setting. You're showing them that health matters, that moving your body can be a celebration, and that you'll always be there, cheering them on—whether in a fun run or in life."

Justine, who gave birth to her daughter just a day after AWR 2024, is proud to see mothers running with their children. "Witnessing women consistently show up for themselves and push beyond their perceived limits has created profound and lasting community impact," she said.

Here are three inspiring reasons to run with your child at the next All Women's Run:

1. It introduces fitness early on.

Some moms may worry that children might be overwhelmed at running events, but Justine says these moments are exactly why early exposure to fitness matters. "I'm inspired by these moms who continue to show up despite challenges, setting powerful examples for their children. Research even supports that mothers who regularly engage in fitness activities significantly increase the likelihood of their children adopting similar healthy habits," she said.

2. Kids and parents learn how to lift each other up.

For Shaira, one unforgettable moment was when her daughter looked up and said, "I'm running, Mommy!" She described it as a simple but powerful affirmation of confidence and joy.

Running is one of those unique sports where competitors cheer for each other, according to an article by Fatherly. In events like AWR, the spirit of encouragement is passed down naturally to kids.

3. Advocacy runs teach kids about bigger issues.

Beyond fitness, AWR teaches children about respect, equality, and advocacy.  "We're starting them young, not just in fitness, but in opening their eyes to inequality and teaching them to respect women," Justine says.

"Girls grow up valuing themselves, and boys grow up valuing girls and women as much as they value themselves. That’s what this run symbolizes. We’re helping this young generation understand what respect truly means." Through runs like this, Justine believes that the earlier children understand advocacies, we will be able to raise a better generation of leaders—leaders who will create safer, more inclusive workplaces, communities, and countries for everyone.

The true essence of fitness

Heading toward the fourth year of the All Women’s Run, Justine reflects proudly on what the movement has achieved.

"There is no one way to become a fit woman," she says, reiterating the event’s tagline. "Our pledge, 'I am strong. I am capable. I am beautiful. I am woman,' is not just a statement—it’s something we live and embrace together."

Through the All Women’s Run, more women—and their children—are finding their strength, discovering their voice, and building a future where every woman can thrive.

See you at the next All Women's Run? Join the Smart Parenting Village to stay informed.