While the first few months of the year can be colder, they often seen Britons turning over a new leaf by finding fitness through jogging and running. However, remaining motivated when the weather is miserable isn’t always easy. Fortunately, those visiting or living in Chester have an opportunity readily available that combines keeping in shape with a sense of community at zero cost.
A free, fun and weekly event, Chester Parkrun is designed for those seeking to socialise while getting fit. Every Saturday morning at 9:00 am, the community gets together to undertake a five-kilometre course and those attending can run, jog, walk, volunteer or simply spectate.
All skill levels are welcome and those attending are encouraged to complete the course at the pace that best suits their ability. Run entirely by volunteers, Chester Parkrun is always on the lookout for those who would like to help organise and manage events. With more than 260 events under its belt and over 13,000 finishers, the run is a popular occasion in the city.
It costs nothing to join in the fun, but those participating are asked to register online before they attend. Registering is only required once, and runners are issued with a unique barcode they can print out and bring with them in the day. Volunteers scan the barcode at the beginning and end of each course so those taking part can see how long it took them to complete it.
Chester Parkrun takes place each Saturday in the Countess of Chester Country Park, on Valley Drive in Chester.
