The Ultimate Guide to Parkrun: Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Run

Are you one of the 1,970,552 runners who have laced up their shoes and joined the famous 5KM Parkrun? Every Saturday morning, at 9.30am sharp, your Instagram feed is flooded with pictures of smiling runners basking in their endorphin high after completing a Parkrun. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a newbie, Parkrun has become one of the latest workout trends sweeping the UK.

Originating in Bushy Park, London in 2004, Parkrun has now expanded to over 610 locations worldwide, with millions of runners hitting the pavement every week. The best part? It’s completely free! All you need to do is sign up online and grab your barcode. This barcode is your ticket to tracking your time and participating in any Parkrun event around the globe.

Parkrun isn’t just for elite runners; anyone can join in, from your nan to your furry four-legged friend. It’s a great way to stay active, whether you’re running, jogging, or walking the 5km course. Plus, Parkrun offers a sense of community and camaraderie thanks to its dedicated volunteers.

So, if you’ve been thinking about giving Parkrun a go, now’s the perfect time to lace up and join the fun. Who knows, you might just find yourself hitting those Parkrun milestones and earning yourself a special milestone t-shirt. Don’t forget your barcode, and be sure to arrive early for the pre-briefing – the run starts at 9am sharp!

Whether you’re racing to beat your personal best or just looking for a fun weekend activity, Parkrun has something for everyone. So grab your running shoes, print off those barcodes, and get ready to join the thousands of runners who are already hooked on the Parkrun craze.