How parkruns bring a wealth of health benefits — both physical and mental

More and more people are joining parkruns— and it’s easy to see why. You get to exercise, connect with your community, and boost your mental and physical wellbeing

Runners on their way during the Midleton Greenway parkrun in Midleton, Co Cork. Pictures: David Keane.

It’s 9.27am on a Saturday and I’m standing in a group of about 120 people at the start line of the Midleton Greenway Parkrun. We’re waiting for the run director to get the event underway.

It’s a hive of activity: People setting their watches or fitness trackers, doing some warm-up exercises, having the chats, or nervously deep breathing (OK, that’s just me).