For the love of ParkRun
- Jasmine Bullwinkle
- Feb 28, 2025
- 2 min read
I would not describe myself as a runner… Running is not for everyone and I didn’t think it was for me either until I found myself at the local ParkRun…
What is ParkRun?
Park Run is a ‘Free Forever’ 5K event that is held every Saturday at 9am. Junior Park Run is a 2K event held on Sundays. According to their website The Junior event is for children aged between 4 and 14 years olds.
To take part you need ro register with Parkrun. Registration is TOTALLY free! You only need to register once, even if you attend different ParkRun locations.
Why Try Parkrun?
You can walk, jog or run! There is no obligation to try and lay down a quick time. It is an event where you can apply as much or as little challenge as is right for you. Parkrun is entirely marshalled and put together by volunteers so if you don’t fancy joining the running event straight away, why not volunteer to see what it’s like.
It was a cold and icy Saturday morning when I arrived at my first Parkrun. My breath, an opaque cloud mixing with the air as I walked to the back of the hoard. a few 'Good mornings' cheerily shrill through the crowd. The starting breif with the enthused run director issuing safety notices and congratulations, feels like a breath of fresh air. and the start of the race is declared. A steady stampeed of runners make their way the finish line each on their own personal journey. At the front a speedy group setting their strava watches and going for a sub 20. At the back walkers chatting and encouraging everyone who passes. The ParkRun goers are supportive and the community is incredibly positive to be around. Waking up on a Saturday morning to speak to the lovely marshalls and join the start line feels like a dose of the best medicine.
It is a great excuse to get outside and exercise. Being out in nature, in the elements, rain or shine is beneficial for wellbeing and mental health. ParkRun offers a great step into enjoying exercise in the outdoors.
Parkrun can hold you accountable. I found it so much easier to show up for myself when there was routine and accountability. I could show up each week, at the same time and place to get outside and exercise.
Where?
Use the Parkrun Location finder to find a run near you!
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