Introduction to The Ultimate Guide to parkrun by Lucy Waterlow
Posted on October 03 2024
Here is the introduction to The Ultimate Guide to parkrun by Lucy Waterlow
Once upon a time, eight men and five women took part in a 5k time trial organised by a friend in a local park. Little did they know that they had set in motion a worldwide health phenomenon which would go on to span five continents and benefit millions of people. Now every week on Saturday mornings around the globe, hundreds of thousands of people gather for a 3.1 mile timed event, supported by enthusiastic volunteers. It’s free to take part in and open to all backgrounds and abilities.This is parkrun (always with a lower case ‘p’) and it has changed many people’s lives for the better.
Despite the name, parkrun doesn’t have to be a run.And you don’t have to be fast.The average finishing time in the UK is 29 minutes 18 seconds.You can walk the whole way if you like.You can join in every week or just occasionally.You can take part with your dog, with your children, with a buggy or a wheelchair, or with a guide runner.You can join in on Christmas Day, in fancy dress, or while on holiday.You can try and finish as fast as you can, or run as many different events as you can.You can even run backwards all the way if you like (yes, there is a parkrunner who does this regularly!).
For some parkrun is just a run, for others it is a way of life, a means of feeling connected to their local community, and an opportunity to spend time with friends and family in the great outdoors. If you’re reading this you may already have taken part in at least one parkrun – or intend to. So, if you are looking for some advice on how to lower your time or raise your age grading, get some inspiration to walk, run or volunteer, or find out how you can complete a parkrun challenge – or simply want to know about parkrun’s extraordinary story – you are in the right place. This unofficial guide to parkrun is all about celebrating the ‘feel- good movement’ and the people who have made parkrun what it is today. Enjoy reading and when you put the book down to go for a parkrun, DFYB (Don’t Forget Your Barcode!)
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