Keep your New Year’s Resolution strong with parkrun

We’re only four weeks into the New Year and parkrun directors in the Western Downs say numbers have increased significantly as people make their resolutions to get fit.

The Miles parkrun has increased from 35 to 45 people each week since New Year’s Day.

Meanwhile, Dalby has increased its average of 57 to a whopping average of 83 parkrunners each week this year.

Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Kaye Maguire said it was fantastic to see so many people getting involved with the free event.

“Events like parkrun in Miles and Dalby are such a great way for families and people of all ages and fitness levels to get out and be active,” she said.

“But it’s not just about getting some exercise; it’s a chance to connect with other people in the community and enjoy the beautiful landscape of Dalby’s Myall Creek or the Miles lagoon.

“I encourage people to get up that little bit early on a Saturday morning and give it a go. You’re bound to meet some great people and start your weekend off right.”

Parkrun is a free, timed five-kilometre event suitable for runners and walkers of all shapes, sizes and abilities.

Since celebrating Miles parkrun’s first anniversary in November 2018, Event Director Kerryn Rabone said she has been thrilled by the increase in numbers.

“We have farming families come in and people come from Drillham and Chinchilla, so it’s great,” she said.

“I just love watching people’s progress and confidence in themselves build and seeing the friendships that have formed.

“Everyone is always welcome and you don’t have to be quick — it doesn’t matter if you’re walking, if you’re sprinting or if you’re waddling.”

Dalby parkrun Event Director Myfanwy Schenk said she encourages everyone to keep going with it, even after the buzz of New Year’s Resolutions wears off.

“We celebrated our 100th event recently and 107 people came, and about 50 per cent of those people will add it to their routine,” she said.

“It’s so worth it. It feels painful when you’re there but give it a couple of days and you’ll start to build your strength. Give it a couple of weeks and you’ll really start to feel the benefits.

“Very soon it will become a habit you’re happy to keep.”

Dalby (Myall Creek Parklands) and Miles (Moraby Park) parkruns begin at 7am every Saturday. For more information, visit www.wdrc.qld.gov.au.

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