Almost four million individuals have participated in a Parkrun event since its inception with only 13 attendees twenty years ago. This weekly community gathering offers a 5k run, walk, or jog every Saturday morning, along with a 2k course for juniors and families the next day. Parkrun promotes inclusivity, welcoming all skill levels with no time constraints and a designated tail walker for those at the rear.
Joe Wicks, also known as The Body Coach, serves as an ambassador for Brooks Running, an official partner of Parkrun. With two London Marathon completions and a recent triumph in the Great North Run, Wicks imparts his top five recommendations for newcomers:
1. Anyone can join, regardless of fitness level. Embracing a gradual approach, like the Jeffing method of alternating running and walking, is encouraged to alleviate the pressure of fast-paced running in today’s social media-driven world.
2. Parkrun provides accountability and routine, ensuring a consistent companion for exercise regardless of the weather, fostering both physical and social benefits through weekly participation.
3. Prioritize your mental well-being by recognizing the calming effects of outdoor exercise in a park setting, promoting stress relief and relaxation among participants.
4. Fancy equipment is not necessary to start – a simple pair of trainers is all that’s required. Parkrun’s accessibility and cost-free nature make it an attractive option for all individuals.
5. Consistency and goal-setting are key to progress. Incremental achievements, such as transitioning from walking to jogging, help build confidence and enhance fitness levels with continued dedication.
Brooks Running, a prominent provider of high-performance running gear, has enlisted Joe Wicks as an ambassador, aligning with the belief that running is a universal activity that invigorates the body. Wicks trained in the Brooks Ghost 17 shoe model in preparation for the Great North Run. For further details, visit brooksrunning.com.