Steve Haywood Health & Fitness

Up and down the country in various parks there is something going on every Saturday morning at 9am which I would recommend you take a look at, even better join in – ParkRun. My park is Hyde Park in Leeds and the event in every park is a 5k race or time trial or whatever you want to make it. Everything is run as a race should be from start to finish but the atmosphere is really chilled and friendly. The whole thing is run by UKTT, a not for profit limited company, and willing helpers and all you have to do is register for free beforehand and then turn up on the day.

The idea is to promote exercise so some people walk the course starting 30 minutes before, some go round with their kids and some give it some stick. It is an excellent way of getting into the mind set of racing if you are new to the sport or if you are returning after a break and for some has become a regular social event. I have only done two this year, this last Saturday(20th June) was with a friend and we talked most of the way but worked hard. Even for experienced athletes it is a good way of having a time trial with good competition to see where you are with your progress. So come on, get your arse out of bed this next Saturday and give it a go. Enjoy!

ParkRun 5K Hyde Park, Leeds

Results

• On 14th February 2009, Steve picked up 47 points at the Hyde Park 5K.
• On 20th June 2009, Steve picked up 38 points at the Hyde Park 5K.