Did you know that parkrun is a weekly timed 5k event with at least one, and often more, per county in Ireland? With 105 5k and 36 junior parkrun 2k events, the chances are, there is one near you. At each event you are welcome to walk, jog, run or volunteer, so there really is something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a safe environment to stay active by walking, connect with your community, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, consider joining parkrun.
It’s an inclusive, non-competitive, and enjoyable experience that can have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellbeing. In this article, we outline ten benefits of you can experience during your walk at parkrun.
parkrun welcomes walkers of all ages and fitness levels. It’s an event where everyone can participate and feel included. When the event itself is over, you will undoubtedly find a community of coffee enthusiasts to share conversations with.
Walking at your parkrun is a fantastic way to interact with your local community. You’ll meet people of diverse backgrounds who share a passion for the community, health and wellbeing.
Many parkrun courses are set in picturesque parks and natural landscapes, providing a beautiful backdrop for your walk.
parkrun emphasises personal achievement over competition. Whether you walk fast or take a leisurely stroll, the focus is on your wellbeing and never your finish time. At parkrun no-one needs to worry about being the last one through the finish funnel, about being too slow, or feeling isolated and alone. At every parkrun event, anywhere in the world, the volunteer tail walker is always the last one to finish.
parkrun offers a consistent opportunity for you to get out and walk. Establishing a regular walking routine can have a positive impact on your physical fitness and overall wellbeing.
parkrun is family-friendly, an ideal activity for parents, carers, children, and grandparents to come together and enjoy.
junior parkrun is a 2k event for those aged 4-14 held on a Sunday. A lovely opportunity to spend time with your children, walking the 2k route and watching them go through the finish funnel.
Walking in nature has been shown to reduce stress and boost mental wellbeing. parkrun’s outdoor setting provides the perfect environment for this.
Being part of a community event can provide the motivation you need to stay committed to your walking routine. As you attend parkruns, you begin to know and make friends with other parkrunners.
The knowledge that someone is expecting you can be the extra boost you need. Just do whatever you can each parkrun, even if it means slowing down a little and taking a breather. Trust us , you will always feel better after a parkrun!
parkrun is free, for everyone, forever, enabling you to maintain your health and wellbeing through weekly walks at parkrun’s timed events without any financial barriers.
So why not give it a try? Or maybe you can share this with a friend you think should get involved.
James Dowling, parkrun Ireland
#VolunteerWalkConnect
parkrun welcomes everyone to participate in walking, jogging, running, volunteering, or simply spectating. To become a part of the parkrun community, sign up here and discover your closest event.
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