I spent this Saturday morning on the other side of Parkrun – volunteering instead of running. I try to do this every six runs or so as a small way of giving back. The event doesn’t magically appear at 7am every week – it only happens because a bunch of half-awake people in hi-vis vests decide to give up their own run to make sure everyone else can get their 5 km fix.
The video sums it up nicely:
- Me pressing the timer as 471 people charge past -trying to look competent while secretly hoping I don’t miss the start.
- A blur of cheering, clapping, and the first dog of the day trotting by looking far fresher than the humans.
- The satisfying moment at the end when the app shows 471 finishers and I can finally exhale knowing I didn’t ruin anyone’s PB.
Talking to other volunteers was great – everyone’s there for different reasons. Some are ticking off Duke of Ed hours, others are practicing for bigger events like city marathons, and a few just want to stay involved while recovering from injuries. For me, it’s a reset: a reminder that parkrun isn’t about times or splits, it’s about people showing up for each other.
If you’ve never volunteered at a parkrun, do it. You don’t need experience, just the ability to clap, press a button, or vaguely point people in the right direction. It’s a brilliant way to see the event from a new angle – literally watching the entire field go by – and it makes you appreciate how much quiet effort goes into making these Saturdays happen.
Even if you love running (and I really do), taking a turn on the sidelines gives you a new kind of buzz. You still get that Parkrun energy – just without the sprint finish or sweaty barcode scan. And you leave with the same endorphin hit, plus the smug knowledge that you helped 471 other people start their weekend right.