The problem with parkrun

The problem with parkrun

July 9, 2026 ยท 41 min ยท Season 3 ยท Episode 50

About this episode

This episode discusses the challenges and changes facing parkrun and the running community.

In this episode, we dive into some of the biggest talking points currently surrounding parkrun and the wider running community. As parkrun continues to grow around the world, questions are being asked: Is parkrun becoming too busy? Is parkrun actually a race? Should there be more rules and enforcement? Has the original ethos changed? We discuss: ๐Ÿƒ Is parkrun still a community event or has competition taken over? ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ The debate around faster runners, overtaking, and crowded courses. ๐Ÿƒ Whether parkrun should introduce more formal rules and regulations. ๐Ÿƒ The impact of record attendance numbers and growing participation. ๐Ÿƒ Volunteer challenges and event management. ๐Ÿƒ Inclusivity vs competitiveness โ€“ can parkrun be both? ๐Ÿƒ Common criticisms of parkrun and whether they are fair. ๐Ÿƒ Our own experiences and opinions from years within the parkrun community. Whether you're a first-time parkrunner, a regular Saturday morning runner, a volunteer, or someone passionate about grassroots running, this episode offers an honest discussion about where parkrun is today and where it might be heading in the future. What do you think? ๐Ÿ”น Is parkrun too busy? ๐Ÿ”น Is parkrun a race? ๐Ÿ”น Shouldโ€ฆ

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