Every Saturday - no matter the weather - in parks, beaches, mountains and even prisons, thousands of people come together all united by one thing: a love of Parkrun.  

At over 800 locations across the world, parkrunners walk, jog, or run five kilometers with friends, family, and neighbours.      

This weekly phenomenon has brought together communities across the world- including Canterbury. 

Canterbury parkrun takes place around the University of Kent campus and challenges its participants to four hills along its course - giving a satisfying feeling to all that conquer them.  

With over 8985 overall finishers, Canterbury provides a welcoming atmosphere to any new parkrunners and volunteers.  

One local Canterbury runner, Josh, said he feels that parkrun “is a sporting event for everyone”.  

This feeling of togetherness is undoubtedly embodied by the amazing volunteers that help to run the events every weekend. 

A local runner, Karen, recalls that “one of the marshals remembers the names of hundreds of people. It's really nice to have someone cheering you on by name”.  

For the younger enthusiasts, junior parkrun takes place on Sundays and consists of a two-kilometer course aimed at children aged 4-14.  

Junior parkrun is an excellent way to bring together families and friends and to introduce children to the joy of running in a fun, welcoming environment (and burn off some of the children’s energy in the process).  

Some junior parkruns even offer a cheeky sweet at the end!  

With events spanning over five continents and 20 different countries, parkrun offers a social way to keep fit and healthy all around the world.  

One local parkrunner, Roddy, says “I like to run with other people and I enjoy catching up with friends and chatting to them as I run along”.  

For those that are competitive, parkrun also offers a barcode system to allow you to view your time and overall place online. 

This not only provides a goal for you to focus on but also allows you to smash your PBs (personal bests) and see your progress throughout your parkrun journey.  

Parkrun also gives awards to people who reach certain milestones - such as 50 or 100 parkruns completed.  

One local runner, Sarah, recalls how she ran her “100th parkrun dressed as a penguin”! 

You can find your nearest parkrun at www.parkrun.org.uk