Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi explains why more than 1,800 GP practices across the country are now prescribing parkrun to their patients.
Find out more about RCGP’s Parkrun Practice scheme
In an era where mental health challenges are on the rise, and the need for community connection has never been greater, parkrun stands as a beacon of hope. This grassroots movement has become a cornerstone of public health, blending physical activity, social connection, and volunteering to transform lives across the UK and beyond.
As we celebrate 20 years of parkrun, it’s worth exploring its profound impact—not just as a weekly event but as a life-changing ecosystem that healthcare professionals can confidently recommend to patients.
Why is parkrun a great thing to socially prescribe?
â—Ź Â Â Â Â Free to access activity
â—Ź Â Â Â Â It's every week but no commitment/booking is needed
â—Ź Â Â Â Â Combination of movement, nature and community in one activity. A dream cocktail for health!
â—Ź Â Â Â Â Milestone rewards: Not rewarding how or what you do, merely the fact that you are doing it and coming along 25, 50, 100 times etc.
A Welcoming Space for All
parkrun is simple: a free 5k walk, jog, or run in open spaces every Saturday morning, with junior parkrun offering a 2k event for children on Sundays. Its accessibility is remarkable, welcoming people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. From seasoned athletes to first-time walkers, parkrun embraces everyone, creating a culture of inclusivity and belonging.
The initiative has flourished, now hosting over 2,200 weekly events in 23 countries, with millions of runners, walkers and volunteers contributing to its success.
The Power of Volunteering
A defining feature of parkrun is its volunteers. The benefits of volunteering extend far beyond logistics. Studies have shown that volunteering can improve mental health, enhance a sense of purpose, and even contribute to longer life expectancy.
Volunteers at parkrun experience significant boosts in happiness and fulfilment. The 2018 parkrun health and wellbeing survey revealed that 79% of participants reported feeling happier due to parkrun, with volunteers enjoying the greatest mental health benefits.
Through volunteering, individuals gain new skills, build social connections, and develop a stronger sense of community. For patients struggling with isolation or low mood, encouraging them to volunteer at parkrun can be an empowering and transformative step.
The Science Behind Movement and Mental Health
The mental health benefits of physical activity are well-documented, and parkrun is an ideal platform to harness these effects. Regular participation in parkrun promotes the release of endocannabinoids—our body's natural "happy hormones"—that alleviate stress, boost mood, and enhance overall wellbeing.
Moreover, parkrun provides a structured routine, fostering resilience and stability for those navigating challenging times. Combining this with the benefits of spending time outdoors and connecting with nature amplifies the positive effects.
A study by Morris and Scott (2019) highlighted how parkrun improves mental health, citing reduced isolation, lower anxiety and stress levels, and increased confidence among participants. These outcomes make parkrun an invaluable tool for healthcare providers aiming to support patients holistically.
A Model for Social Prescribing
The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) parkrun practice initiative exemplifies how community-driven programmes can enhance patient care. Over 1,800 GP practices have joined the initiative, encouraging staff and patients to participate or volunteer at parkrun events.
This partnership has proven highly effective in promoting preventative care, particularly for patients facing barriers to physical activity. By prescribing parkrun, healthcare providers offer an accessible, sustainable, and evidence-based intervention that addresses both physical and mental health.
Why parkrun Matters
As healthcare professionals, recommending parkrun is about more than promoting exercise. It’s about encouraging patients to engage with a community, embrace movement, and find purpose through volunteering.
With its unique blend of inclusivity, routine, and social connection, parkrun offers a scalable solution to some of the most pressing health challenges of our time. Let’s champion parkrun as a cornerstone of social prescribing and a pathway to healthier, happier lives.
For more information on parkrun and how to get involved, visit parkrun.org.uk. Together, we can build a brighter future—one step, jog, or volunteer shift at a time.
Find out more about RCGP’s Parkrun Practice scheme
Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi is a GP and the Royal College of General Practitioners’ lifestyle and physical activity lead. He is also health partnerships lead at parkrun and a Swim England clinical advisor. He heads up the social prescribing team at the Leamington Primary Care Network.
Resources
Other resources related to mental health and running/swimming
