ParkRun cult is a lovely community
- itsmarcusryan
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
What a lovely community parkrun parkrun Australia is, every Saturday morning people all over the world turn up to run 5km (aided by the support of amazing volunteers) with friends and strangers of of all ages and fitness levels. It's not a race, it's a reason and motivation to exercise and a good way to meet others and be part of a healthy cult that also doesn't break the bank.
Just over 12 months ago I did my first one, I was staying at a mates place and he dragged me along. I wouldn't normally go to a group fitness activity unless I knew someone, but fastforward 12 months and I'm not just turning up on my own, I'm seeking them out. If I gig in other cities or countries, I try to book accommodation nearby one, I am researching what the terrain is and if I'll enjoy the scenery... and yes, I'm even starting to list the ones in the alphabet! It's a thing. Can you do the A-Z of Park Runs? There's no X I'm told. Anyway, that's not the main thing, it's being consistent and giving yourself something to aim for. At the very least, 5km once a week is a good start. And you don't have to run, you can walk and chat with others, and of course you can volunteer. It doesn't run without volunteers!
Since making this a regular thing I've signed up to and completed the Puffing Billy Run, 2 half marathons, the Two Bays Trail Run and gulp signed up to my first full marathon this July! I even went for a jog on my own and ran a half marathon on a whim. It's not about how far you run or how fast or how many kudos you get on your apps! For me, it's about being better than the previous me. It's about feeling good mentally, physically and knowing that when I wake up I am in a better mood and want to be more active.
My milestone 25th run was back where it started on Phillip Island. Spookily also on that day, Strava notified me that this run was my 250th activity since using the app. A day of 25’s. Leonardo Di Caprio better watch out, I’ll get his girlfriend!
It's at Albert Melbourne parkrun though where I've run the majority of them, a beautiful loop around the lake, they have numbered signs to hold up for a photo pre run at milestones, but on Phillip Island parkrun Churchill Island you’re given a cape to wear in celebration. Bad news is, it doesn’t make you fly! It slowed me down and it added about 10 seconds to my time!
I urge anyone wanting to get some routine in their life to go along. Every Saturday morning all over the world you can find a Park Run in many towns and cities.
Nobody judges you, it's not a race. It's a community.
As the Melbourne International Comedy Festival kicks off, I'm even jumping into the theme and doing a live podcast show where I interview people from different parts of the fitness industry, comedians who do adventures, athletes, run clubs, event organisers and of course key people from Park Run.
I'm excited that one of the recognisable faces of the Albert Park Park Run, Joanne, who everyone will know has agreed to be one of my guests on April 2nd, a chance to find out more about the workings, the funny stories of vollies and what makes it all run smoothly. So if you're a part of the Albert Park Saturday morning event and want to ask Joanne questions and be part of the fun, come Thu April 2nd! ‘What Are You Running From?’ is the name of the show, Click on the title for the link.
April 1, 2 & 4 at the Golden Gate Hotel, South Melbourne. Different guests each night.
Cost of fuel has gone up, rate rise & housing crisis. Times are tough and I want to have a fun time with the community. So... for all those who have taken the time to read this post. There's a special promo code at checkout: '3gels' gets you in for $15.
Of course, if you can afford it. Full price is available! Or 'halfmara' gets you $21 tix.
I’m pretty pleased to be finally consistently sticking to something and that thing is good for my mind, body and soul. Three Cheers and kudos for Park Run!
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