Why I love parkrun

By Joe Wicks

Whenever I turn up to parkrun, I leave with a huge smile on my face. It’s one of the best things out there that truly celebrates the joy of movement and community.

Every Saturday, in parks all over the world, people come together to walk, jog or run 5K. It’s completely free, open to everyone, and one of the most uplifting community events you’ll ever experience.

People of all ages and all abilities turn up and remind us that movement is for EVERYbody.

Running has always been part of my life in some way. I completed the London Marathon in April of this year and I had the most incredible day. It reminded me (and others) that you don’t have to be fast to be a runner – I jeffed the whole thing.

This month, I ran the Great North Run for the first time with Brooks Running, (which is actually the biggest half marathon in the UK!), and as part of my training I joined a few of the free 5k parkruns on the Brooks parkrun Tour.

parkrun’s mission is exactly the same as mine: getting more people moving. When I started my YouTube channel, I wanted to provide free resources so that anyone could get active, no matter their situation. It always has and always will remain free – and parkrun does the same thing, while also giving people that in-person community support.

So why do I love parkrun?

It’s so accessible. You don’t need to be a runner or have any special kit (although a pair of comfy trainers is good). Whether you’re walking, jogging, running with your dog or pushing a buggy, everyone can take part. It doesn’t matter how fast you go, you’ve just got to show up.

You can go along and focus on your own run, or you can chat to others and cheer people across the finish line. You see kids sprinting alongside grandparents and groups of people laughing together. Everyone is encouraging each other and it’s so inspiring.

My favourite part of a parkrun morning? The post-run buzz. There’s a great sense of achievement and it’s such a good way to start the weekend.

It’s simple, it’s free, and it’s a reminder that running and moving your body can be fun for everyone.

Go on, give it a go!

Joe x

You can find out more about parkrun and your closest one at parkrun.org.uk.

Discover more about Brooks, who are partners with parkrun, at brooksrunning.com.