Park Run is an amazing worldwide initiative that brings free 5km ‘races’ to your local area. I have been lucky enough to participate in Park Runs across Brisbane, as well as in the UK when on my travels. It’s a really simple system that allows you to track your time each week, and aim to beat your personal best.
All you have to do is log on to their website and register for a barcode. You bring your barcode along to every event, and when you finish you get a time code. You take this code to the volunteers who scan your barcode to record your time. Each and every Saturday morning at 7am at North Lakes you can run with 100 other running enthusiasts, beginner runners, families and walkers who all cheer each other on and create a really amazing atmosphere. It’s one of those events that you just can’t believe is free. The crew at North Lakes are so cheerful, and they arrive every Saturday rain or shine with a huge smile on their faces ready to help more people get their weekend workout in. The system is great, because there are runs all across the country, so whether you’re travelling down to Sydney for work, or just feel like a change of scenery there are plenty of Park Runs to keep you busy.
Here are a few beginner running tips:
1. Invest in a good pair of shoes. There is nothing worse than running on blisters and sore feet.
2. Go at your own pace. It doesn’t matter how fast (or slow) you’re going, just do your best. The great thing about Park Run North Lakes is that you can track your progress each week, so just aim to do a little better each week.
3. Chat to the people around you. When you’re running, you should be able to talk. If you are so out of breath that you can’t speak you’re going too fast, slow down until you can say five or six words before having to take a big breath. Similarly if you can carry on a full conversation without any worries you’re not working hard enough – take it up a notch.
Perhaps you want to work towards your first race, or beat your personal best? Our trainers are here to help, call today to get your training plan started!