Parkrun – What you need to know

What is a Parkrun and how do I take part?

Parkrun is a completely free, timed 5km event that takes place at over 2000 locations around the world. I remember my first Parkrun and I was full of questions about how everything worked and unsure about what to expect. What happens? When and where do I show up? Is it really free? In this article I hope to answer some of those questions for you.

Where and when do Parkruns take place? 
To find your nearest Parkrun go to parkrun.com and select Countries in the menu bar. From the list of countries that appear, click on the VISIT tab for your country.

Each page should have a tab on the page that says ‘Register’.  Click on the tab and follow the instructions to get your own Parkrun barcode.  You need this barcode to log against a timing chip you get given as you cross the finish line.

Once you have registered on the Parkrun homepage for your country, there should be a Find Event Near You” tab.  Click on it and follow the instructions to find your closest event.

Then all you need to do is turn up at about 7:40am on a Saturday morning at the location of your Parkrun. 

I’ve never been to Parkrun before, how does it work? 
It is so simple and super easy.  If it is your first time at a Parkrun, it is a really good idea to show up about 15-20 minutes before the start so you have a chance to listen to the briefing that is always given for new runners.  It also gives you a chance to chat with the Parkrun volunteers and other runners, who will make you feel very welcome.
 
At 8am, every runner starts at the same time.  You complete the 5km course at your own pace, whether it’s running, jogging or walking. There are always lots of signs and volunteers to point you in the right direction so you shouldn’t get lost.  When you come over the finish line, you will be given a barcoded finishing token.  You take this token and your own personal barcode to get scanned by a volunteer who will usually be near the finish line. And that’s it, you’re done! You can be off to carry on with your day or you can stay and chat with your fellow runners and volunteers.

To give you more insight into what to expect at your first Parkrun have a look at this YouTube video I recorded sharing my experience at a new Parkrun.

How do I get my time if I don’t have a timing chip? 
With the use of the ingenious Parkrun timing system! All the volunteers use:
– A stopwatch, where the timekeeper presses a button and records the time every time a runner crosses over the finish line,
– Barcoded tokens which are given to runners as they cross the line;
– A scanner that is used to scan the runners’ own Parkrun barcode and the token they were given after they have crossed the line.
 
With some computer wizardry and the use of some Parkrun patented software, the timing and barcode files are merged which allows Parkrun to process the results very quickly and send you an email with your results.

How is Parkrun free? Is there a catch?
There is absolutely no catch! Every event is organised by volunteers, and the ongoing costs for each event are minimal. Parkrun HQ, which is based in the United Kingdom, helps to support the Parkrun events and over 300,000 runners each week. Sponsorship is vitally important to help fund Parkrun and keep Parkrun free for everyone.  Thanks to all the sponsors!!

Is the course really 5km? 
Yes, each course distance is checked by an official course measurer to ensure the course is exactly 5km long. But one thing to remember is most runners are not at the event to race.  The event is a family friendly run where taking part and completing the 5km in your own time is what counts.  Just have fun!!

Can I use my barcode at other Parkrun events or does it only work at my usual event?
Your barcode works worldwide at every Parkrun and is individual to you. Going on holiday is no excuse! 8am on a Saturday morning…get to a Parkrun!  Your barcode is your passport to over 2000 events in 22 countries around the world.

Do I have to volunteer?
Nobody is forced to volunteer at Parkrun. Some people volunteer every week, some people never volunteer, and some people volunteer occasionally. Volunteering can be fun and rewarding for lots of reasons and is very good for building social connections.  If you are injured one week, or you have an event later in the day you are saving yourself for, it is a great way to still be involved with the Parkrun. You can volunteer if and when you want to. You decide.
 
I love Parkrun! What can I do to help?
Now I have got you caught by the Parkrun bug, there are lots of ways you can help.  Firstly, keep spreading the word about Parkrun! Invite your friends and family along.  Word of mouth is the most effective way of getting new people to discover Parkrun. Secondly, you can volunteer at one of the runs. You can signup to volunteer here.

Good luck at your event and let me know how you went.

Tack