My new healthy lifestyle

Sally Houliston would see Anderson parkrunners while out walking in the same Napier park.

A friend in the UK had also told her about parkrun so she decided that the 5km event would be a good way to get into running regularly as part of her overall fitness journey. Her first parkrun was in January 2020 and now she is a regular.

Being office based for my job Monday to Friday, it’s great to get out on a Saturday morning for the fresh air. The support from others in supporting you with fitness goals is really encouraging. I enjoy getting to meet new people from across the community with common interests plus it’s nice to be involved in something not work-focussed.

Because of parkrun I’ve made new friends and connections. It’s also something our whole family has become involved with each week. I’m promoting a healthy lifestyle for my son and also friends.

Going to parkrun is great for my mental health, and the running gives me a chance to have ‘me’ time – it’s my way of relaxation.

I am a passionista of Anderson parkrun in Napier and I have run all my 33 events there. I would also like to visit the Queenstown and Wanaka parkruns as my parents live in Central Otago.

I am aiming to achieve my 50 milestone this year, as well as to volunteer at least 10 times. I hsave volunteered twice so far as marshal and event report writer. I really enjoyed marshalling and giving encouragement to others.

Being involved with parkrun has contributed to my fitness. I have a goal to run at least two half marathons this year. I also want to get my parkrun PB closer to 25 minutes. It’s currently 26:59.

Because of parkrun I’ve been able to get involved with a new community group and now my teenage son is coming along.

Having been on a significant health and fitness journey in the past three years, participating in parkrun is another way of incorporating activities into my new healthy lifestyle.

Sally Houliston
parkrunner A6518980