Parkrun – A Great Event in the Spirit of CHFI
John Weston, President, CHFI
In June this year, I discovered an amazing activity that embodies the mission of the Canadian Health and Fitness Institute. There I was in Bergen, Norway, visiting our daughter Meimei, who introduced my wife Donna and me to a group that loved running, didn’t care about the running times, encouraged one another, was open to new friendships, and aimed at people of all levels. We made immediate new friends – in Norway! – and learned that this group exists in chapters in hundreds of cities around the world – including my home town, West Vancouver. So, it took a trip to Norway to discover a running group that’s been going on for years in my backyard!
Last month, I had the pleasure of participating in a Parkrun at Ambleside, West Vancouver, and got to meet and talk to this hardworking team of runners, walkers and volunteers who make it all happen. One of the participants I met was Parkrun enthusiast Dianne Volek, who provided the background in this article.
Parkrun isn’t so much an event as a way of life. This free community event is 5k and takes place every Saturday morning at 50 locations across Canada – and in many other places, as I found in Norway! You can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate, there is no time limit and no one finishes last.
The spirit of Parkrun is to promote community, inclusivity, and the power of small acts to create meaningful connections. It’s not just about exercise; it's about people coming together, sharing successes, feeling motivated and finding purpose. Sound a bit like what we promote at CHFI?
What is Parkrun?
Parkrun began on October 2, 2004, when Paul Sinton-Hewitt organized the first event at Bushy Park in London, England. It featured just 13 runners and three volunteers. The event's simplicity and community spirit quickly gained popularity, leading to the creation of similar events across the UK. The name Parkrun was registered in 2008.
Parkrun's growth has been remarkable. As of 2023, there were over 2,200 events in 23 countries, with more than 7 million registered participants. The events are held in parks, beaches, forests, and even prisons. Each event is free, timed, and open to everyone, regardless of ability.
The success of Parkrun is attributed to its community-driven model, reliance on volunteers, and emphasis on inclusivity and health. It has become a global movement, promoting physical activity and social interaction.
Bruce’s STORY: A Symbol of parkrun's spirit
Bruce may be in his 80’s, but his age hasn’t stopped him from participating regularly at Ambleside parkrun since the event’s inception 2 years ago. He used to walk, but after a fall, he found a new way to contribute—he's now a marshal, a role in which he excels.
The Parkrun marshals are the eyes and ears of the event, there to keep participants safe, make sure folks know where to go, and cheer everyone on!
At parkrun, no-one ever comes last! A volunteer tail walker provides directions, makes sure no participant loses their way, and answers questions from passersby. The Parkwalker is a roving marshal, who makes sure other walkers feel welcome and not feeling pressured to “keep up” with faster runners.
The routine of showing up, cheering, talking to participants, and being part of the event gives him a sense of purpose and connection.
Bruce recently celebrated his "25" volunteer milestone and it was HIS turn to be the centre of attention and cheers.
Why Bruce’s Story Matters
Bruce is just one of many seniors in Canada who experience today’s world like it’s a new
country. Online banking, online events, online health.
These are people most likely to have lost friends during the pandemic. They no longer feel the push to get outdoors and risk meeting strangers.
At Parkrun, no-one is a stranger. People off all ages, races, cultures and levels of fitness come to the free weekly events - to jog, to walk, to be valued, and to meet familiar faces over coffee and a croissant. It’s small enough to be personal, big enough for diversity.
Bruce’s story is more than just a tale of a senior active—it's a testament to the way group exercise initiatives are a lifeline.
The Bigger picture
Parkrun is one example of the CHFI’s national movement to inspire active Canadian communities. Parkrun isn’t about speed and endurance athletes; it’s about walkers, and volunteers. It’s about each individual’s commitment to consistently “showing up” and getting through those 5km.
You’re welcome at Ambleside Parkrun
Ambleside must be one of the most beautiful parks in Canada. It has ocean, it has the river, it has trees with squirrels! Ambleside parkrun follows the Spirit Trail of North Shore, on the traditional territories of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations
Parkrun is so much more than a nudge to exercise. It’s a community, a support system, and a way to bring people together in real life.
When is it?
Every Saturday at 9:00am.
Where is it?
What does it cost to join in?
Nothing - it's free! but please register first and bring a scannable copy of your barcode on your phone. Your times are tracked, so you can monitor progress towards the 10, 25, 50 milestones. You’ll be surprised how time flies when you’re having fun!