When to do parkrun?

[JoolieB1]

As a graduate, I totally recommend parkrun. All you need to do is register and print a barcode and you can go along when you are ready. My experience was that I volunteered at my local parkrun first. When I saw the course and met the encouraging volunteers plus saw all ages and abilities having a go, I thought I would mark my week 9, run 3 with a parkrun.

A great way to finish the programme. Just did my second parkrun today and felt fantastic to be able to run at my own pace with the stewards all cheering everyone on. Why not check it out? Even if you don't have much money, it is a weekly free event you can enjoy.

Did my 5K today in 34 minutes which is pretty unbelievable for a 52 year old who didn't ever run just 3 months ago!

[Steve_L Graduate]

Well done! Parkruns are great, aren't they? I just did my 27th one, and I've volunteered twice. My first one was at the beginning of April, in a time of 34:16, and the week before last I managed a best of 28:23.

[JoolieB1 Graduate in reply to Steve_L]

Wow that is a great time! I am joining a running group on Thursday (affiliated to Jog Northants) so I am a little scared as it is for "Improvers"! They run 5k each session which I know I can do but it is still challenging and I run at my own pace, hope they aren't super speedy ☺️! I don't want to join in all the competitive chat or get into that stuff. Think I would really like to focus on encouraging people to get into running rather than mix with the athletes

[Steve_L Graduate in reply to JoolieB1]

I joined a running club last week. On the club run night they have several groups running at different paces, so you can select the one you feel most comfortable with. Most clubs have people at all levels, so I'm sure you'll be fine. Enjoy it!

[MarlyParly Graduate]

Wow, cracking time for a newbie at any age. I'm 40, graduated a year ago, & have only managed that time once! Go you, & glad you're enjoying parkrun. I've only done one, bit of a more solitary runner, but I do intend to go back at some point. X

[JoolieB1 Graduate in reply to MarlyParly]

I graduated four weeks ago and have been doing 3 X 30 minute runs a week at between 7 or 8 mins per km. depends how I feel on the day really. Did 2 X 5K this week and 1 X 30 mins. Next week will do 3 X 5K and will stick with that for November and see how my legs cope. Joining a running club on Thursday so hope I survive in the real world! 😊

[Girlyswot Graduate]

Great post, I volunteered at Parkrun before giving it a try too. My local parkrun (Hull) is friendly and inclusive. For anyone wondering whether to give it a try - do it !!! Well done on your graduation and parkrunning x

[JoolieB1 Graduate in reply to Girlyswot]

Thank you, I am a bit of a loner when it comes to running but trying to mix with others more. Julie

[Hidden]

that is a great time Joolie really well done on your time the T shirt looks great too

[JoolieB1 Graduate in reply to Hidden]

I have 2 so I can wave the C25K flag! They are good quality too and I wore a long sleeved top which was perfect for my run this morning. I don't plan on getting any faster than that unless it is just through doing three runs a week and improved fitness. My legs feel fine and I want to look after them

[Hidden in reply to JoolieB1]

Definitely much cooler this morning at parkrun but still a great way to start the weekend

Good luck with all your running Joolie you may surprise yourself

[Sandraj39 Graduate]

Hi Joolie what a lovely post and fantastic time! I have recently graduated (am 50) and am trying to pluck up courage to do my first Parkrun! Luckily, my fifteen yr old son who has also recently completed c25k, is going to do it with me, hopefully in a couple of weeks. Your post has has definitely mad me quite excited about it, so thanks.😀

[Madge50 Graduate]

Well you're quicker than me missus! And I've been going to park run since last November, I waited until I was sure that I could do 5k, I didn't have to as it turns out, wish I had gone sooner and used it for some of the C25k weeks - which I would recommend others to do. Love park run, it's just brilliant. I'm 52 and I'm still trying to hit 35 minutes - around 36 to 37 at the moment. but what the hell, it's the taking part that counts!

Mx

[goonkeepgoing Graduate]

You're doing ssssoooo well. C25k, running and Parkrun are life changing, aren't they?

[poppypug Graduate]

Well done Joolie ! Running opens up a whole new world doesnt it ?

Lovely pic, the T Shirt ( and you ) look fab ! xxx

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

That's brilliant Joolie! I'm envious of your time, and your t-shirt!

[laurav33 Graduate]

Wow, that's a fantastic time, congrats! I think I really should have a go at park run... maybe I'll go next week....