Why we love parkrun: Featuring Brooks Running Collective

by | May 13, 2025

3 min. read

Every Saturday morning, people of all ages, abilities, backgrounds and fitness levels come together, tie up their laces to move! It’s not about getting a medal, placing first or being the fastest – it is about something bigger than that. It’s about coming together as one to celebrate the joy of parkrunning. At Brooks, we are beyond proud to support and be part of the magic that parkrun brings.

Why we LOVE parkrun:

It’s inclusive for all: whether you’re chasing a new PB, pushing a pram, or walking along with your friend or furry friend, parkrun creates a welcoming, safe and friendly environment for all – where everyone is welcome with open arms! At Brooks we create shoes for all, also valuing the importance of inclusivity

Strengthens and builds communities: whether you walk, run or volunteer, parkrun brings local communities together, whether you’re a regular parkrunner or not, a volunteer or simply a supporter on the sidelines, connections are made where everyone can move together.

It keeps us grounded: By stepping back into nature, whether you’re surrounded by greenery in a park, or lucky enough to have a scenic at your parkrun, parkrun allows us to take a step back from the hustle of our busy lives. As a result, we can appreciate the little joys in life, without big productions or fancy set ups.

Our Running Collective at parkrun!

We spoke to Brooks Running Collective member and parkrunner, Amanda Richardson, @plantbasedmotherrunner about why she loves parkrun and continues to tie up her laces and show up to her local parkrun every Saturday morning. Here’s what she had to say…

Why do you continue to attend parkrun?

I continue to attend parkrun because it’s something the whole family can do together and at any age. My first parkrun was a walk/run with my kids as preschool and kindergarteners, now they are 11 and 15 and beating me! I love that no matter where my fitness is at I feel welcome whether I’m going for a PB, looking for a walk to move my body or you are volunteering. 

Tell us about the parkrun community and what it means to you?

I love that parkrun is such an inclusive and welcoming space. parkrun removes many of the barriers being physically active; FREE access to 5km parkruns all over the world each week and welcoming to all ages and levels of experience

Do you have a specific memorable moment or story from parkrun?

The one that stands out above the rest was when I was home visiting Australia when I was living in Canada and running Coffs Harbour (my hometown) parkrun with my mum, my husband and my boys. My mum didn’t start parkrun till her late 60’s, she joined as a walker and then saw other folks her age running and decided to join them. She has since earned her 50 runs shirt and her 25 shirt and loves the community. 

Describe parkrun in one word!

COMMUNITY

To find more information about parkrun or to locate your closet parkrun head on over to their website at www.parkrun.com.au

Bottom line, the ideal time of day to exercise is when it is best for you. Although more research is needed in this area to draw a conclusion on exactly what time of day is the best to exercise, what we do know is that long-term exercise does in fact improve aerobic capacity, cardiac function, management of BMI, and strength. So, the evidence points to moving your body for overall wellness regardless of what time you do it.

Keep that spring in your step this season and embrace your Run Happy journey with Brooks Running!

Our writer’s advice is intended for informational or general educational purposes only. We always encourage you to speak with your physician or healthcare provider before making any adjustments to your running, nutrition or fitness routines.

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