We can’t recommend parkrun enough. It’s suitable for every type of runner and the best part…it’s free!
In short, parkrun is an organised 5 kilometre run held every Saturday across the whole of the UK, parts of Europe and Northern America. For some, they treat it as a race and for others, they treat it as a leisurely jog with their friends and family (dogs are allowed!).
Now for the long version…
How to find your local park run?
You can search for your nearest parkrun on their website HERE. Use the map function to see which event is closest to you.
What to do before you arrive?
The benefit of these events is that they time your run, so there’s no need to take a phone or other timing device.
Now the way they match your time with you is through your parkrun account. This can be created on their website.
Once the account is created, print out the barcode that’s on your account and take it with you on your morning outing. You will need this barcode at the end of the event to scan in and get your time.
What to expect at your first park run?
Parkrun starts at 9:00am every Saturday. Make sure to check the event page for your specific location just in case it’s cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.
We would suggest arriving 10 – 15 minutes early to your event to give you time to stretch, warm up and chat. There will usually be a first timer’s running briefing where the volunteers will talk you through what to expect and give you a description of the route.
When you get there you’ll know where to go…there will be herds of runners gathering at the start line with bundles of energy, raring to go.
Roughly 5 minutes before you get going, one of the volunteers will welcome everyone and celebrate new comers and people who have hit their parkrun milestones.
After all the celebration, you’re ready to run!
It’ll be hard to get lost, either follow the runners or head in the direction the marshals point you towards. Parkrun’s core is it’s volunteers who help signpost and marshal each event so they will be dotted about, usually in high-vis, showing you the way!
When you cross the finish line there will be either cones or marshals guiding you through to where they will both time you and give you a token.
Hand this token into a marshal who will be holding a bucket/pot (it should be obvious), they will scan the token and then scan your barcode. Once this is done you’re ready to enjoy the rest of your day!
What’s so great about park run is that it’s dotted all over the UK and Europe, so if you’re ever on a staycation or vacation you can search for your nearest park run and enjoy a 5k run without maps on a Saturday morning with your friends and family! For some, who really get into it, they do park run tours and visit loads of parkruns around the country.
Comment below your park run tips!
