Does anyone do the Falkirk park run?

[Mum2run]

I'm tempted to go along but quite daunted at what is involved, that I will be too slow and that everyone else will think I'm a bit of a fraud it takes me about 40-45 min to do a 5k. That time is based on a 5 min warm up walk, 30min running and walking again until I reach 5k

[c4ts Graduate]

It really does not matter how slow you are please do not be put of by that thought, the Parkrun is an event for everyone and it does not have to be run all the way. It is a great incentive to get out and know you have officially clocked a time. You are only every competing against your previous times!!

Please try it and let us know how you get on. My PB for 5k is only 37.33mins so I do know how you feel about being towards the rear.

[no-excuse Graduate]

Hi - I am having exactly the same doubts. I really want to do a park run but am a bit worried about my times, Like you I take about 45 minutes to do 5K. Yesterday I walked for 5 mins, ran non stop 5k, and then another walk for 5 mins. The 5k bit took 43 mins. If I lived near you I'd come along and join you but I am in the South East. I think I may just do another couple of weeks of running the 5k bit so I know that I can really do it, and then just go for it. They are meant to be pretty friendly by all accounts. Good luck if you decide to do it. x

[ZoomZoom Graduate]

I did my first parkrun in my own town yesterday. I came 175 out of 222. The atmosphere is amazing and there will be people of all abilities. I recognised 1 couple from crossing paths when out jogging in the evenings, another 2 mums from toddler groups and I befriended a lady, as I was a bit confused why we were all gathering in an area about 80m away from the starting point.

[Trizzy37 Graduate]

Never done a parkrun myself, my first 1 is going to be beginning of next month to coincide with W9R1 but I'm under the impression that theres no such thing as too slow, just to go at your own pace and enjoy. Personally I can't see myself going any quicker than the times you have said but am still going to go and have fun. Good luck

[misswobble Graduate]

The point is that they are for all of us. You could go along and have a look first before committing yourself, although having said that the only commitment is to yourself as there is absolutely no pressure with park runs

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

I have never heard of Parkrun participants, organisers and stewards being anything other than supportive and encouraging. Give it a go. I am sure you will enjoy it and it will give you an accurately measured 5k time, which you can nibble away at as you create new PBs. You can always go along to watch or volunteer to get the feel for it.

[Hidden]

Think of it as a wonderful way to meet new people and make new friends. Enjoy. Best wishes.

[LightDark Graduate]

I havent plucked up the courage to do a park run yet - but thats mostly becuase my local has been very muddy!

All the posts I've seen about them have suggested that people really enjoy it - and theres no pressure to be speedy. I'm sure you will find that too!