Are you up for a ParkRun?

Parkrun organises weekly, 5km, timed runs around the world.  These runs are open to everyone, are free, and are easy to take part in.  The events take place in pleasant parkland surroundings, and people of all abilities are encouraged to join in - from those taking their first steps in running to Olympians; from juniors to those with more experience.  Everyone is welcome.  There are, currently, six venues in Northern Ireland: Ecos Park (Ballymena, Co. Antrim), City Park (Craigavon, Co. Armagh), Queen’s (South Belfast), Falls (West Belfast), Waterworks (North Belfast), and Belfast Victoria (East Belfast).  These events are volunteer-led, and also encourage post-run social time amongst participants.  They are a great way to get men of all ages involved in taking some exercise.  For example, during Men’s Health Week 2012, local men responded to the call to join the Ecos parkrun on Saturday 16th June.  This saw the highest turnout of men to date: 57, of whom 12 were newcomers.  The organisers would like to thank the all-female volunteer team on the day, who made sure that the guys had no excuse not to run!