If you are looking for an activity that is good fun, suitable for the whole family, available all year round, and free, then a Parkrun event might just be the thing for you.
Parkrun is a weekly event that takes place in many locations all around the world. There are various settings, from beaches to forests and parks, with 765 locations across the UK alone.[1]
Parkrun is perfect for the whole family, from younger children in prams and buggies to grandparents, or even great family members if you are lucky enough to have them.
Many people gather at weekends to take part. Some people enjoy racing, whereas others like to take a stroll, jog, or simply spectate, while they enjoy the lovely scenery.
Parkrun can be a wonderful place to meet new people or invite family and friends too. Being outdoors is great for your health, so you can combine being social with improving your fitness.
We are all aware that fresh air is beneficial to our health. Many studies on the benefits of fresh air have been published, and the results all suggest that fresh air is ultimately beneficial! A study carried out in 2010 found that being outdoors greatly improves our energy levels[2] and is a wonderful way of improving our mood and wellbeing.
Being in the company of others might also make us feel happier. We can tell stories and listen to others' stories; you never know where a chat will lead when you meet new people.
Parkrun provides an opportunity for everyone in your family to make new friends. Your child may make a lifelong buddy, someone they had never met before participating in Parkrun.
So why not give it a try?
Visit their webpage for more information: Parkrun UK
References:
[1] Parkrun webpage. Available online at: events | parkrun UK Information accessed 18 May 2022
[2] R. M. Ryan, N. Weinstein, J. Bernstein, K.W Brown, L. Mistretta, M. Gagné. (2010) Vitalizing effects of being outdoors and in nature. Journal of Environmental Psychology, Volume 30, Issue 2, 2010, Pages 159-168, ISSN 0272-4944.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvp.2009.10.009.