Parkrun founder shares how the events help his mental health

The milestone of the one millionth parkrun event was recently celebrated at Bushy Park in southwest London, the original location of the initiative founded over two decades ago. Paul Sinton-Hewitt, who started the first parkrun 22 years ago as a small gathering with friends on a Saturday morning, reflected on how the event has grown. “Thirteen people plus five volunteers pitched up. We ran round the park, we went for coffee – and so it all began,” he told BBC London. He emphasized that the appeal of parkrun lies in its simplicity: no cost, physical activity in an accessible outdoor setting, and a focus on social interaction.

Since that modest beginning, the parkrun concept has blossomed into a worldwide movement, encompassing over 2,800 weekly timed 5km races in 23 countries, alongside 2km junior runs on Sundays. This global community draws participants from all walks of life. At the recent event marking the millionth parkrun, participants created a large card formation spelling out “thanks a million” to show their appreciation. The celebration was also graced by Dame Kelly Holmes, the double Olympic gold medalist, who joined in the festivities at Bushy Park.

The one millionth parkrun event enjoyed an enthusiastic turnout under sunny skies, with runners chatting and mingling as they queued to have their finishing times recorded. Sinton-Hewitt noted that this social camaraderie, along with a friendly competitive spirit, forms an essential part of parkrun’s magic. He highlighted that the event welcomes people of all ages and fitness levels, pointing out a group of 80-year-olds who celebrate their participation annually at Bushy Park. “It’s not about the athletics. It’s not about that. It’s about getting out, doing a little bit of 5km walk or run or a 2km if you’re a child on a Sunday. And then it’s about what happens here, this melee of people just gelling, having such a great time,” he explained.

Beyond promoting physical health, parkrun has also played a transformative role in Paul Sinton-Hewitt’s personal life, particularly in dealing with mental health challenges. “Parkrun for me is the moment that turns my week,” he shared. “I go from being very introverted and not really wanting to engage to how I am now where I can actually talk to you and to the people at large. It’s a marvellous thing.” Elizabeth Duggan, CEO of parkrun Global, described reaching the one million event mark as “just phenomenal,” and expressed ambitions to expand parkrun’s presence. She revealed plans to increase the number of participating countries from 23 to 30 by 2030, alongside growing the number of weekly participants from approximately half a million to 750,000 worldwide

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